Latest News

Autumn Adventures on the Vale of Rheidol Railway   As the long summer days give way to crisp mornings and golden evenings, autumn is one of the most magical times to enjoy a steam train journey through the Rheidol Valley. The trees take on stunning shades of orange, yellow, and gold, and the softer light…

New Book Lifts the lid on ‘Collection X’ – The Secret World of Narrow Gauge Locomotives A fascinating new book from the Vale of Rheidol Railway is set to uncover one of Britain’s most enigmatic private collections and tell the story of the man behind it. ‘Narrow Gauge Enigma – The Story of Peter Rampton…

The Vale of Rheidol Railway is bringing a brand-new festive adventure to Aberystwyth this year, with the launch of ‘Ticket to Christmas’ – an enchanting indoor Christmas event set against the magical backdrop of the Vale of Rheidol Railway Museum. Essential winter track maintenance means trains won’t be running this Christmas however the Vale of…

BBC Radio 4’s flagship political discussion programme is coming to Aberystwyth on Friday 17th October 2025 The programme was first broadcast in October 1948 and visits a different part of the UK every week with a panel of four speakers who answer questions from the audience. providing people with the opportunity to challenge politicians, policy…

Steam Spectacular at the Vale of Rheidol Railway Unique BR Blue Steam Loco Returns as All Three Rheidol Tanks Star in Festival Line-Up The Vale of Rheidol Railway will stage one of its most ambitious events to date this autumn, combining historic repaints, intensive services and visiting attractions for an unmissable Steam Festival on 25th…

One of Wales’s best-loved heritage railways has received global recognition this summer, as the Vale of Rheidol Railway is officially named among the top 10 per cent of attractions worldwide in the 2025 Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards. The award is based entirely on reviews and ratings submitted by visitors over a 12-month period and recognises…

As the hot weather continues we have little choice but to operate a reduced orange timetable on from Monday 18th August to Sunday 24th August, with the 12:15 and 15:45 departures now cancelled. If you are booked on these cancelled services, we will be in touch to offer alternatives. Our Garratt locomotive No. 60 will…

We’re thrilled to launch our brand new Loyalty Card at Vale of Rheidol Railway – exclusively for residents of Ceredigion. It’s our way of giving back to the locals who support us all year round. Discounts* include:  20% off train travel (excluding special events) 10% off at Cledrau Café 10% off in our gift shop…

Oldest Surviving Isle of Man Bogie Coach Returns Home After Nearly 50 Years Vale of Rheidol Railway facilitates transfer of historic Coach F6 to Steam Railway Supporters’ Association The Vale of Rheidol Railway is pleased to announce the successful sale and transfer of historic Isle of Man Railway Coach F6 to the Isle of Man…

We at the Vale of Rheidol are excited to launch our Cledrau Picnic baskets, a new addition to our first class offering. Make your journey extra special with a First Class Picnic basket, thoughtfully prepared to enhance your journey through the stunning Welsh countryside. Each basket is pre-prepared using locally sourced products and homemade items…

Introducing Cledrau – Aberystwyth’s New Café at the Heart of the Railway We’re thrilled to announce the opening of Cledrau, our brand-new café here at the Vale of Rheidol Railway – and for the first time in our history, we can now welcome you to enjoy coffee, cakes, and freshly prepared…

The Vale of Rheidol Railway has announced a series of forward-looking adaptations to its historic steam operations in response to growing challenges from climate change and shifting coal supply quality. This comes after an unprecedented three-week suspension of steam services in May, during which only reduced-capacity diesel trains could operate. The suspension was necessary following…