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Steam returns to the valley as the Vale of Rheidol reopens for 2026

The Vale of Rheidol Railway will reopen its full line to Devil’s Bridge on Saturday 28th March as the new 2026 season gets under way, bringing steam trains back to one of Britain’s most spectacular narrow gauge railway journeys. From the first departures of the season, Visitors will once again be able to travel the full 12mile journey between Aberystwyth and Devil’s Bridge through the wooded valleys and dramatic scenery of mid Wales.

Steam train passing Devil's Bridge station with lush greenery and blooming flowers around.

A new blue timetable for 2026 introduces an additional 12 noon departure from Aberystwyth, giving passengers greater flexibility when planning their day alongside the existing orange and yellow timetable dates. First class travel will also be available throughout the season for visitors looking to make the journey extra special.

Optional extras include the popular Cledrau picnic, or a glass of prosecco paired with artisan chocolates created by award winning chocolatier Sarah Bunton. Advance booking is recommended as first class seats are often among the first to sell out.

Alongside the railway’s scenic journey, the Engine Shed Museum will once again open its doors with free entry for all visitors. The museum has recently been refreshed with new interactive interpretation and information boards designed to bring the story of the railway and its locomotives to life for visitors of all ages. There’s also a notable new exhibit, Great Western  Railway locomotive 7819 ‘Hinton Manor’ now proudly stands in the space formerly occupied by GWR Dukedog locomotive 9017 Earl of Berkeley. The two locomotives recently exchanged between the Severn Valley Railway.

Built in February 1939, Hinton Manor was the final locomotive in the first series of Manor class engines. During its working life it hauled services across the Great Western Railway network before withdrawal from the main line in 1965. It was regularly selected to haul prestigious trains including the Cambrian Coast Express from Shrewsbury and operated special services to Aberystwyth during the 1960s.

 

Interior of a train museum with vintage steam locomotives on display and wooden ceiling.

Throughout the winter the Vale of Rheidol Railway has been moving forward with a programme of ongoing improvements that strengthen both its heritage and visitor experience. The Aberystwyth shop has been made brighter and more welcoming with new lighting, a fresh coat of paint and improved layout. Outside the shop a key pathway linking the railway with the town centre and the mainline station has been resurfaced. This upgrade makes the route smoother and more accessible for all visitors.
At Devil’s Bridge Station, work has begun on a series of developments designed to enhance the visitor experience. A new toilet block, built with a strong heritage aesthetic while offering modern comfort and accessibility is nearing completion. There will also be new shelter providing passengers with a welcoming and weatherproof space to take in the views. Further developments work will continue throughout the year, marking an exciting step forward in preserving the charm of Devil’s Bridge whilst improving the facilities for visitors.
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