Exploring The ‘Great Little Trains of Wales’: Llanberis Lake Railway 

When it comes to Wales’ steam railways the Welsh Highland and Ffestiniog lines often get all the glory, but there are several smaller heritage railways that are worth a visit. One of these is Llanberis Lake Railway, a scenic steam railway in the very heart of Eryri. 

Llanberis Lake Railway, or Rheilffordd Llyn Padarn, to give it its Welsh name, offers a captivating steam-powered journey along the shores of Lake Padarn. One of the twelve heritage railways that make up the Great Little Trains of Wales, Llanberis Lake Railway has been taking passengers on a scenic lakeside journey for over 50 years.

This heritage line runs along a section of the former Padarn Railway, which once carried slate from the nearby Dinorwic quarry to Port Dinorwic (Y Felinheli) on the Menai Strait. Today, Llanberis Lake Railway offers a peaceful five-mile return trip that includes breathtaking views and a glimpse into history. Passengers can enjoy the stunning shoreline in carriages pulled by one of the railway’s beautifully restored steam engines – ‘Elidir,’ ‘Thomas Bach,’ and ‘Dolbadarn’ – rescued from Dinorwic quarry.

As the whistle blows, you’ll board the train at Gilfach Ddu, next to the National Slate Museum. The route takes you past the striking ruins of the 13th century Dolbadarn Castle, before crossing between Llanberis’ twin lakes, Llyn Peris and Llyn Padarn. The line continues through Padarn Country Park, joining the old slate route to run alongside the glistening waters of Lake Padarn. This shoreside route affords unparalleled views of the lake and mountains beyond, including stunning views of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon). 

With a backdrop of unspoilt woodland, home to a variety of birds and wildlife, this hour-long journey offers an opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of the surroundings  as the train gently chugs along the line. Look out for woodpeckers darting through the trees, or the shimmering reflection of the mountains on the surface of the lake.

The route includes a short stop at Cei Llydan, a peaceful spot where you can stretch your legs, and take in the serene surroundings before reboarding the train. Or perhaps you may like to stop, to enjoy a lakeside picnic and immerse yourself in the beauty of the area, before catching a later train back to Gilfach Ddu.

Llanberis Lake Railway runs regular services throughout the year, with the exception of January. Special events include the annual Easter Egg Hunt, family-favourite Superhero Week (held in early August), a Halloween Hunt, and the ‘Lakeside Winter Wonder’. This seasonal service runs on Tuesdays, Wednesday and Thursdays from 12th November, allowing passengers to enjoy the beauty of Llyn Padarn, and the splendour of the Eryri mountains, during the winter months. Adults can warm up with drinks and mince pies, while little ones can look forward to a chocolatey treat!

This scenic steam railway may be one of Wales’ smaller heritage lines, but its timeless charm will appeal to railway enthusiasts, history lovers, and young train fans alike. With stunning views of the lakes and mountains, and a charming picnic stop along the way, Llanberis Lake Railway is an experience not to be missed.

For more information on services, timetables, and special events, visit their website and start planning your journey through the breathtaking heart of Eryri.

For more activities in the heart of Eryri, take a look at Things to Do in Llanberis