Discover the magic of Wales without the hassle of driving. With its stunning landscapes, charming towns and warm Welsh welcome, Wales offers the perfect escape for train enthusiasts. Hop on board and embark on a journey through this captivating country, exploring its diverse attractions and immersing yourself in the local culture.
A Journey Through Wales by Rail
Day 1: Cardiff to Swansea
Start your Welsh adventure in Cardiff, Wales’s vibrant capital city. Explore the historic Cardiff Castle, home to a fascinating collection of artefacts, or take a stroll along the Cardiff Bay waterfront. Enjoy a delicious Welsh lunch before catching a train to Swansea, a bustling coastal city with a rich maritime heritage. Discover the city’s vibrant arts scene, visit the National Waterfront Museum, or simply relax on the beach. A regular direct train service runs from Cardiff Central to Swansea, with journey times of under an hour.
Day 2: Swansea to Tenby
Continue your coastal adventure with a train journey to Tenby, a charming seaside town in West Wales renowned for its colourful houses, sandy beaches and medieval walls. Explore the town’s historic streets, visit the picturesque harbour or stay a while longer and take a boat trip to Caldey Island for a peaceful escape. Direct trains from Swansea to Tenby run every couple of hours and the journey should take under two hours.
Day 3: Tenby to Carmarthen
Embark on a scenic train journey to Carmarthen, the county town of Carmarthenshire. After a short hop (the journey takes under an hour) on the train, spend the day exploring the town. Explore the historic Carmarthen Castle, delve into the town’s rich heritage at the Carmarthenshire Museum, or indulge in a delicious Welsh lunch at one of the many independent cafes. For outdoor enthusiasts who want to divert from the train journey, the nearby Brecon Beacons National Park offers stunning walking and hiking opportunities.
Day 4: Carmarthen to Aberystwyth (Bus)
Although there’s no viable train service, we suggest you continue your journey around the Welsh coast by taking the bus to Aberystwyth, a vibrant university town with a stunning coastal setting. Explore the town’s independent shops, visit the National Library of Wales, or take a cable car to the summit of Constitution Hill for panoramic views. The town is also a popular base for exploring the Ceredigion coastline. TrawsCymru operates the T1 service hourly from Carmarthen Bus Station and Rail Station. The journey takes approximately two hours and will give you a scenic tour of some off-the-beaten-track Welsh villages.
Day 5: Aberystwyth to Porthmadog
Back on the train today! For a change of scenery, head north by train to Porthmadog, a picturesque estuary town on the edge of Snowdonia National Park. Explore the town’s independent shops and cafes, or take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront. If you have more time, head out to the world-famous Portmeirion Village. Trains from Aberystwyth to Porthmadog are more rural and therefore less regular and slower than some other routes, with a change at Machynlleth – timings vary from around two and a half to three and a half hours, so we suggest checking in advance. The scenery is well worth the journey time though!
Day 6: Porthmadog to Llandudno via Blaenau Ffestiniog
Embark on a truly unforgettable journey by taking the Ffestiniog Railway, a historic steam railway, from Porthmadog to Blaenau Ffestiniog. This scenic route winds its way through stunning mountain scenery, offering breathtaking views. In Blaenau Ffestiniog, catch a train to Llandudno, a bustling seaside resort with a Victorian charm. Explore the town’s pier, enjoy the sandy beaches or climb the famous Great Orme for panoramic views. There are approximately six trains a day from Blaenau Ffestiniog to Llandudno, and the journey takes around an hour.
Day 7: Heading Home
Llandudno is an ideally situated last stop on your itinerary. From Llandudno Junction station you’ll find regular direct trains to many English and Welsh destinations including London, Chester, Birmingham, Manchester, Cardiff and Crewe.
A Car-Free Adventure: Top Tips for Your Welsh Rail Holiday
A train journey through Wales offers a unique perspective on this captivating country. To make the most of your car-free adventure, here are some practical tips:
Plan Ahead: Research train times and routes in advance to optimise your itinerary. Make use of rail travel apps or websites for easy planning, and keep an eye on live train information and planned engineering works.
Book Accommodation: Choose accommodation close to train stations to minimise travel time and maximise your sightseeing opportunities.
Pack Light: Traveling by train means packing efficiently. Consider packing versatile clothing that can be layered for different weather conditions. A backpack might be easier than a suitcase.
Embrace Local Transport: Many Welsh towns and villages have good bus and taxi services, allowing you to explore further afield.
Discover Local Delights: Take advantage of the opportunity to sample local cuisine and explore charming independent shops and cafes.
Relax and Enjoy: Train travel allows you to unwind and soak up the scenery. Take time to read, listen to music, or simply enjoy the journey.
Travelling by train offers a unique perspective on Wales, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenery without the stress of driving. With its efficient rail network and diverse attractions, Wales is the perfect destination for a car-free holiday. So pack your bags, book your train tickets, and prepare to embark on an unforgettable adventure.
