North Wales is filled with dramatic scenery, spectacular coastline, heritage and culture. Explore these on board the region's 'Great Little Trains'. From the Llanberis Lake Railway, a quaint narrow gauge railway that hugs the banks of Llanberis Lake, situated by a former slate mine. To the larger Ffestiniog Railway, Weaving your way through valleys and climbing the hills of Snowdonia as you venture the 13 1/2 mile journey. To the Snowdon Mountain Railway as you climb the peak of mount snowdon itself where you're in store for some magnificent views.
Day 1
Travel to Hotel
Today we travel across the border to North Wales where we check in to the Celtic Royal Hotel
Day 2
Llanberis Lake Railway, National Slate Museum and Betws-y-coed
Starting at Gilfach Ddu, the journey takes you past the 13th century Dolbadarn Castle, crossing possibly Britains shortest river and passing Llanberis' twin lakes as the train neogtiates the extension (opened in 2003) to Llanberis Village. From here the train runs non-stop through the Padarn Country Park, joining the 1845 slate railway route to run along the shores of Lake Padarn to Penllyn, and giving the stunning views of Snowdon, the highest peak in England and Wales.
After returning on the trian back to Gilfach Ddi, just across the road is the National Slate Museum is sited in the Victoria Workshops built in the shadow of Elidir mountain, site of the vast Dinorwig quarry. Here you can travel into the past of an industry and a way of life that has chiselled itself into the very being of this country. The Workshops and Buildings are designed as though quarrymen and engineers have just put down their toold and left the courtyard for home, while an array of talks and Demonstrations including slate-splitting give you a real insight into quarry life
We then head to Betwys-y-coed nestled within the picturesque landscape of North Wales, Betws-y-Coed captures the essence and natural beauty of Snowdonia National Park like nowhere else. Popular with travellers since the Victorian times, this enchanting village is renowned for the verdant forests, cascading waterfalls, and incredible walks which surround it.
Day 3
Ffestiniog Railway
The Ffestiniog Railway takes you on a 13 1/2 - mile journey from the harbour in Porthmadog to the slate-quarrying town of Blaenau Ffestiniog. The historic trains climb over 700 feet from sea level into the mountains through tranquil pastures and magnificent forests, past lakes and waterfalls, round tight bends (even complete spirals) clinging to the side of the mountain or tunnelling through it. Relax and enjoy the stunning scenery of Snowdonia in comfort, with at-seat buffet service, snacks, refreshments and a fully licensed bar featuring locally-brewed award-winning beers.
on our return to the hotel we take a sllight detour, travelling past pen-y-pass, the start of the footpaths leading to the summit of mount Snowdon itself, here you will get spectacular views right from the seat of the coach as we climb to 1181ft above sea level through the valleys.
Day 4
Snowdon Mountain Railway
Soon after your train leaves Llanberis station the track crosses the first two viaducts across the Afron Hwch river and a wonderful view of the waterfall plunging into the gorge below can be seen. As the train emerges into open ground, you get the first glimpse of the peak of Snowdon as it pokes it's head above the ridge to the right of the train. The train soon passes car Esgob, Bishops Field and the ruined Hebron Chapel before starting it's summit ascent in earnest amongst spectacular countryside before finally one of the worlds great panoramas is revealed at the summit of Snowdon, Eryri, Lane of the Eagles.
after the descent back to ground level we head back to the hotel for time at your leisure to explore Caernarfon and the history it holds.
Day 5
Return Home
today we check out of the hotel to embark on our journey home, after travelling to new heigjhts, there's plenty of stories to be told.
Below is a list of pick-up points available on this tour.
Below is a list of pick-up points available on this tour.
| Name | Address |
|---|---|
| Bedford | Elstow Park and Ride |
| Biggleswade | Church Street Bus Stop opposite ASDA |
| Letchworth North | Letchworth Broadway Bus Stop H |
| Sandy | Sandy Market Square Market Square Bus Stop |
| Shefford North | Ivel Road Bus Stop (heading towards high street) |
| Stevenage | Stevenage Bus Stop L Lytton Way (opp Train St) |
| Stotfold North | Bus Stop by public toillets The Avenue Bus stop |
