More Than Just a Train Ride – Make a Full Day of It at the Vale of Rheidol Railway

If you’re planning a visit to the Vale of Rheidol Railway over the next couple of weeks, there’s never been a better time to come along.

While thousands of visitors are enjoying Pete Waterman’s spectacular Making Tracks at the Beach exhibition, there’s so much more to discover than just the model railway. From driving real steam locomotives to family activities and one of Britain’s most scenic railway journeys, it’s a day out packed with things to see and do.

Start with Pete Waterman’s Incredible Model Railway

Located in our Engine Shed Museum, Making Tracks at the Beach is a stunning 72-foot recreation of Watford Junction, complete with a fun seaside twist. Created by Pete Waterman and his talented Railnuts team, the layout is packed with incredible detail, working trains and plenty of hidden surprises.

Can you spot all of the beach-themed items hidden amongst the buildings, platforms and railway scenes?

Even better, visitors don’t just have to watch – you can have a go at driving the model trains yourself with guidance from the team.

Take the Controls of a Real Steam Locomotive

Want something even more hands-on?

For just £10, you can take the controls of our little steam locomotive Wren under the supervision of one of our experienced crew.

Learn how a steam locomotive works, move the engine around the yard and, of course, enjoy the opportunity to sound the whistle!

It’s a fantastic experience for adults and children alike, with younger drivers welcome when accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Creative Fun for Younger Visitors

We’ve also got plenty to keep younger railway fans entertained.

Pick up one of our railway colouring sheets, build your own paper steam locomotive to take home, or challenge the family to see who can spot the most seaside-themed details hidden around Pete Waterman’s layout.

Then Climb Aboard for the Main Event

Of course, no visit would be complete without travelling on one of our historic steam trains.

Sit back and relax as your train winds its way through the beautiful Rheidol Valley, following the river upstream through ancient woodland before arriving at the famous beauty spot of Devil’s Bridge.

Whether you’re exploring the waterfalls, enjoying lunch or simply soaking up the scenery, it’s one of the finest steam railway journeys in Britain.

One Ticket, So Much to Enjoy

One of the best things about visiting during the exhibition is that entry to Pete Waterman’s Making Tracks at the Beach is included with every Vale of Rheidol Railway train ticket, giving you even more value from your day out. The exhibition is also open to non-travelling visitors for those who simply want to experience the model railway.

With interactive exhibits, family activities, the chance to drive both model and real steam locomotives, and an unforgettable journey through the Cambrian Mountains, there’s something to delight visitors of every age.

Making Tracks at the Beach runs until Sunday 9 August, with the exhibition open daily from 10:00am to 4:00pm. Whether you’re a lifelong railway enthusiast or simply looking for a memorable family day out this summer, we’d love to welcome you aboard.

If you can’t visit in person then the next best thing is the live ‘big board’!