Frequently Asked Questions

You can follow the links on the side of the screen to find everything you need to know about planning a trip on the railway, however some of the more common questions that we are asked are listed below.

On what days and at what times do your trains depart?

Please check the timetable page for full details of the days that we operate and departure times.

Where is Welshpool?

Welshpool is easy to find, being about 16 miles west of the Shrewsbury bypass along the A458 road.  If travelling from the north you may find it easier to travel along the A483 from Oswestry (again, about 16 miles).  See the directions page.

Can I start from the other end (Llanfair Caereinion)?

If you are staying in the area, or traveling from other parts of Mid Wales you may find Llanfair Caereinion station is closer to you; for instance Aberystwyth and Porthmadog are only a little over an hour away (but please do consider seasonal road traffic).  See the timetable page and directions page.

Are all of your trains steam hauled?

Yes.  All of our scheduled trains are timetabled to be hauled by one of our steam locomotives.  Locomotives available at present are our two original locomotives "The Earl" and "The Countess", both built in Manchester in 1902; No. 85 built in 1954 in Leeds for use in Sierra Leone and our latest aquisition  764.425, a Resita locomotive (Romania) built again in 1954.

Are your carriages enclosed?

All of our carriages are fully enclosed from the elements, but with the added bonus of balconies on the ends should you wish to travel in the open air.  In the winter our trains are heated by using steam from the locomotives.

How far does the railway run?

The distance between Welshpool and Llanfair Caereinion is 8 miles in each direction.

How long does it take?

The journey takes about 50 minutes in each direction.  The train is usually at Llanfair Caereinion for about 40 / 50 minutes, and at Welshpool for 25 minutes.  It is possible to travel back by a later train - but don't forget to check the last departure time.  See timetable page.

How much does it cost?

Click for Fares options.  Discounts are available for the over 60's, children and groups of 10 or more people (booked in advance).  Parking at Welshpool and Llanfair Caereinion stations is free.

Are dogs allowed?

Well behaved dogs are permitted to travel for a small fee, however they should be kept on a lead at all times.  We regret that only guide dogs are permitted in the tea room at Llanfair Caereinion.

Do you cater for wheelchair users?

Both Welshpool and Llanfair Caereinion have ramped access to the stations, and toilets for the disabled.  Most non motored  wheelchairs can be accommodated on the trains, but some of the larger more modern chairs can not be carried.  Space is very limited so please telephone our office for advice.  01938 810441.

What is there to do at Llanfair Caereinion?

Llanfair Caereinion  is our main headquarters and as such houses our main shop and tearoom.  The tearoom can supply sandwiches, cakes, hot and cold drinks and ice creams.  In addition to the indoor accommodation there are also excellent picnic facilities.  The station is situated next to the river Banwy and a few minutes walk from the center of the town.

Do I have to book?

We do not offer reservation facilities for individuals or small family groups, but group discounts (and reservations) are available for 10 or more people traveling together.  Please email info@wllr.org.uk or telephone our office on 01938 810441.  We recommend that you allow about 15 minutes to park your car and book your tickets.

Where can I park my car?

There is ample free parking at both Welshpool and Llanfair Caereinion stations. (Please note that we do charge at Llanfair Caereinion during our Annual Steam Gala)

Where is your station in relation to the National Rail Network station?

Our station (Welshpool Raven Square) is about 1 mile from the mainline (Shrewsbury - Machynlleth - Aberystwyth / Pwllheli) station.  Passengers arriving by rail should head towards the center of town and continue straight ahead at the crossroads.  Beyond here the road begins to climb before eventually dropping back down to the roundabout at Raven Square.

FOR FURTHER DETAILS PLEASE CONTACT:

THE WELSHPOOL AND LLANFAIR LIGHT RAILWAY, THE STATION, LLANFAIR CAEREINION, POWYS  SY21 OSF

TELEPHONE: (01938) 810 441   FAX: (01938) 810 861  EMAIL: info@wllr.org.uk