Snowdon Mountain Railway: A journey to the top of Wales!
Looking for something fun for the whole family this Autumn? Recently our Marketing team at Thornley Leisure took the trip on the Snowdon Mountain Railway, and it did not disappoint! It truly is ‘a journey like no other‘, taking those on board all the way to the summit with spectacular views of Yr Wyddfa , uncovering the mountain’s hidden secrets – from viaducts, waterfalls and gorges, to the remnants of abandoned farms, chapels and medieval settlements. Not to mention the panoramic views across North Wales from the summit of Wales’s highest Mountain.
Read on to find out about why this attraction is one of the most popular and scenic in North Wales, and a must see for those visiting the region!
1. The journey started in Llanberis –
A picturesque town in the middle of the Eryri National Park, situated closely to twin lakes Llyn Padarn and Llyn Peris. Arriving at the station you were immediately greeted by the views over the ‘electric mountain’ – a huge hydroelectric power station is built inside the mountain amidst miles of tunnels carrying roads and water (from the outside you would have no idea!), and other surrounding mountains. The small, pretty train station is the perfect place to stop and relax, eat and drink in the sunshine before ascending above clouds.
2. Starting the 1 hour journey to the summit.
After collecting our train tickets from the welcoming ticket office it was time to head to the platform for our train (trains run regularly throughout the day). With the choice of either the heritage steam train experience for the train enthusiasts out there, or the traditional diesel locomotive for a which offers best value for money, both offer a comfortable and insightful journey. We began our 1 hour journey to the summit.
The views unfolded as we started to climb the steady climb to the summit – our conductor explaining about historical monuments on the way up, giving insight into the area and history of the mountain, throwing out interesting facts like how Kenny Stuart holds the fell running record for running up and down Snowdon in just 62 minutes in 1985 annual Snowdon Moutain race!
As the train climbs the views are breathtaking, showcasing North Wales in it’s best light, with views over the other mountains of Glyder Fawr and the steep rocky ridge of Crib Goch.
3. Reaching the Summit –
After reaching the summit train station, we departed the train and had half an hour to explore before our train back. We were greeted with panoramic views of the North Wales – out toward Anglesey, the Llyn Peninsular and Conwy. Heading through the on-site modern cafe, the summit is just a 5 minute walk to the top where see spectacular 360 degree views across Wales in all directions.
At the top of the Mountain you can enjoy the Gift shop, Cafe, enjoy the fresh mountain air and peacefulness of the national park.
We even managed to spot our holiday parks Dinlle Caravan Park and Morfa lodge Holiday Park in the distance!
After that we headed back down on the train which gave us the same amazing scenery on the way down as on the way up. The journey taking approximately 2.5 hours in total. Leave time for parking and enjoying taking in the scenery and before your train, and after enjoy a coffee and exploring the gift shop.
The journeys are seasonal, and Snowdon Mountain Railway have extended their season until the end of October! With a few tickets and dates left, it’s the perfect sunny Autumnal attraction which the whole family can enjoy.
