Welshpool and Llanfair Light Railway

The Welshpool and Llanfair Light Railway is a narrow-gauge heritage railway in Powys, Wales. It runs for about 13.7 kilometres from Welshpool through Castle Caereinion to Llanfair Caereinion. The line follows a winding route through gentle hills and farmland, crossing the River Banwy on a steel girder bridge. The railway opened in 1903 to help local trade but never made a profit. It closed to passengers in 1931 and to freight in 1956. Volunteers restored the line in stages, reopening the section to Castle Caereinion in 1963. The railway now runs restored locomotives and carriages, many gathered from Europe, and is known for its steepest climb at Golfa Bank. Visitors board at Raven Square station on the edge of Welshpool. The train passes through quiet countryside, climbing steadily towards Golfa summit at 192 metres. The line’s sharp curves ease the steep 1 in 29 gradient. At Castle Caereinion, trains pause before returning, offering views of the valley below.