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Vale of Rheidol Railway This is a great journey through the spectacular Rheidol Valley from Aberystwyth to Devil's Bridge, 11¾ miles of twisting rails and panoramic scenery. Rheidol Railway was the last steam railway owned by British Rail until privatised in 1989 and the whole one hour journey is spectacular. The final section drives up steep gradients, taking the tight bends slowly as the ledges it hugs overhang precipitous drops. The train needs to overcome a height difference of over 600 feet, affording superb views of the Rheidol Valley. At Devil's Bridge, the famous Mynach Falls, Jacob's Ladder and the Devil's Punchbowl are all within walking distance of the station. The Vale of Rheidol Railway opened in 1902 to serve the lead mines, timber and passenger traffic of the Rheidol Valley. To save money, and due to the hostile terrain through which the line was forged, the railway was built on narrower track than the norm, with many sharp curves and steep gradients. Yet despite the fact that the rails are less than 2 feet apart, the three steam locomoticves weigh over 25 tons each and are more than 8 feet wide, allowing passenger space above the narrow gauge rails. The locomotives have recently been rebuilt and the track renewed, and the railway has opened up views not seen for many years. The renovation and improvements continue, and if you decide to stay an extra day in this part of Wales then you could combine the cycling with a visit along this beautiful rail journey through the Rheidol Valley. Vale of Rheidol Railway Information and photograph Vale of Rheidol Railway |
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