SUGGESTED ITINERARIES
Below is a a variety of itineraries we’ve created to help you make the most of your day at the Vale of Rheidol Railway and enjoy some of the sights and experiences in the local area. These have been tailored around our different timetables and stopover times.
The timings listed below are only intended as a guide, actual timings may vary depending on individual walking pace, dwell time etc.
Please note if you are travelling in First Class, you will need to take the same train back for your return journey, this allows you a 45 minute stopover time at Devil’s Bridge.
Aberystwyth to Devil's Bridge
Quick Highlights – 45 Minutes
If returning on the same train, on any timetable. OR travelling in First Class
Arrive at Devil’s Bridge Station
→ 1 min walk:
Pop into Sarah Bunton’s award winning chocolate shop to watch professional chocolatiers at work creating handmade chocolates and Welsh fudge through the purpose built viewing window. Browse a range of gift ideas and indulgent chocolate for any occasion. (10 mins)
→ 10 min walk:
Head down past the Hafod Hotel to the Three Bridges viewpoint for dramatic views of the historic three bridges stacked above the River Mynach. (5 mins)
→ 10 min walk:
Return to Devil’s Bridge Station
*Please be advised, if catching the last train on a YELLOW timetable day, there is only a 30 minute stopover until the return train from Devil’s Bridge at 17:00
Scenic Adventure – 2hrs 15 min
Blue or yellow timetable
Arrive at Devil’s Bridge Station
→ 1 min walk:
Pop into Sarah Bunton’s award winning chocolate shop to watch professional chocolatiers at work creating handmade chocolates and Welsh fudge through the purpose built viewing window. Browse a range of gift ideas and indulgent chocolate for any occasion. (10 mins)
→ 10 min walk: Follow the signs for the Waterfalls
Three Bridges + Punchbowl Walk (40 mins)
Take in the scenic views as you descend down into the ‘Punchbowl’ where you can witness the river’s power and the iconic Three Bridges towering overhead.
This is a moderate walk with 220 slate steps.
→ 5 min walk:
Relax & Dine at The Hafod Hotel (~45 mins)
Refuel with a light snack or an A la Carte Lunch in this historic hotel overlooking the gorge before heading back to the station.
→ 10 min walk:
Return to Devil’s Bridge Station
Day Explorer – 4 ¼ Hours
Yellow timetable only
Arrive at Devil’s Bridge Station
→ 1 min walk:
Pop into Sarah Bunton’s award winning chocolate shop to watch professional chocolatiers at work creating handmade chocolates and Welsh fudge through the purpose built viewing window. Browse a range of gift ideas and indulgent chocolate for any occasion. (10 mins)
→ 10 min walk: Follow the signs for the Waterfalls
Three Bridges + Punchbowl Walk (40 mins)
Take in the scenic views as you descend down into the ‘Punchbowl’ where you can witness the river’s power and the iconic Three Bridges towering overhead.
This is a moderate walk with 220 slate steps.
Or
Nature Trail & Waterfalls Walks (1½–2 hrs)
A strenuous woodland hike that descends deep into the gorge with views of the spectacular Mynach Falls and Three Bridges.
This is difficult walk with 675 steep uneven natural stone steps which is not suitable for the elderly, or those with medical issues. A high level of fitness and mobility is required.
→ 5 min walk:
Rest & Dine at The Hafod Hotel (1 hr)
Refuel with a light snack or an A la Carte Lunch in this historic hotel overlooking the gorge. Take in the views with a refreshing pint before heading back to the station.
→ 10 min walk:
Return to Devil’s Bridge Station
Devil's Bridge to Aberystwyth
Quick Highlights – 45 Minutes
If returning on the same train, on any timetable. OR travelling in First Class
Arrive at Aberystwyth Station
→ 1 min walk:
Leave the platform and go over the crossing* to our trackside cafe, Caffi Cledrau. Enjoy a freshly brewed coffee, tasty snack or light lunch to fuel you for your return journey. (25 minutes)
→ 1 min walk:
Head in our Engine Shed Museum to explore our extensive collection of historical narrow gauge locomotives and rolling stock. (15 mins)
→ 2 min walk:
Return to Aberystwyth Station Platform
Scenic Adventure - 2hrs 15 mins
Yellow timetable only
Arrive at Aberystwyth Station
→ 1 min walk:
Leave the platform and go over the crossing to our trackside cafe, Caffi Cledrau. Enjoy a freshly brewed coffee, tasty snack or light lunch to fuel you for your return journey. (25 minutes)
→ 1 min walk:
Just across from our café you’ll find our Engine Shed Museum to explore our extensive collection of historical narrow gauge locomotives and rolling stock. (15 mins)
→ 10 min walk:
Head out onto Aberystwyth beach and promenade. Enjoy the sea breeze, stretch your legs on the sand and maybe see the Victorian pier. (~30 mins)
From the promenade why not stroll into the town and check out some of the fantastic independent shops including Polly’s, Driftwood Designs, Bookshop by the Sea, The Bay Gallery and many more!
Alternative Option: If you want a bird’s-eye view of Aberystwyth, substitute the promenade and town exploration for Constitution Hill & Cliff Railway-the longest electric funicular cliff railway in Britain. Trains depart frequently and journeys take approximately 10 minutes each way. (~1 hour)
→ 15 min walk:
Return to Aberystwyth Station Platform
Practical Tips for All Itineraries
- Train timing matters: please ensure you leave enough time to catch your return train. Those travelling in First Class MUST return on the same train.
- Footwear: Good walking shoes are highly advisable, especially for the steep steps and uneven stone paths on the Nature Trail. Paths can be slippery when wet; check forecast and allow extra time in poor conditions.
- Fitness: Due to the geology of the Rheidol Gorge, the walks are not necessarily suitable for the elderly, disabled, asthmatic or for those who suffer from vertigo or heart conditions. The amount of steps makes it unsuitable for pushchairs or for carrying babies in a sling or back pack. If you are not used to physical exertion then this walk could be too strenuous for you.
- Accessibility: The main Nature Trail is strenuous (675 steep steps), while the Punchbowl walk and bridges viewpoint are more accessible to most visitors. There is a level tarmac path around the top viewpoint area, which is also suitable for wheelchair access. The pushchair and wheelchair access is open by prior arrangement, or by asking the waterfalls attendant for the gate code on payment. This access is not available during the winter months when an attendant is not on duty.