Trains in the grey columns will operate according to demand.

Mountain Spirit

Operates Daily

The Cwellyn

TThO

Additional trains may be added according to demand.

Glaslyn Venturer

FSX

Both paths may operate according to demand.

The Harbourmaster

FSO

First up was No.130 at 09:24 with the ECS for the Glaslyn Venturer, running two trips today for the first time in a while. David Lloyd George was next, arriving into the FR platform at 10:01 with the ECS Mountain Spirit. The loco ran round at 10:07 and left on time. This was quickly followed by Blanche at 10:20 on the ECS Woodland Wanderer into the WHR platform with run round accomplished by 10:35 after the Mountain Spirit had left. It was back to Welsh Pony which arrived in the WHR platform at 11:23 with the ECS for the second Woodland Wanderer and ran round at 11:29 for the 11:55 departure.

The lunchtime movements saw No.130 arrive in the WHR platform at 12:55 with the returning Glaslyn Venturer which ran round at 13:00. Blanche arrived back at 13:16 and at 13:24 Blanche shunted its rake to the station yard, running round there at 13:38 as the Fairlie returned. Once the Garratt had departed and The Cob was clear Blanche shunted its rake to the WHR platform at 13:45 and departed on time. The Fairlie ran round at 14:05. Welsh Pony returned at 14:16 into the WHR platform and ran to the yard to coal and water at 14:21 before turning to the train at 14:40 ready for the final 14:55 Woodland Wanderer run of the day.

At 15:18 Harlech Castle arrived light engine and entered the yard to extract the empty coal wagons at 15:27. The loco was back at 16:29 with two loaded coal wagons and ran to the sea wall siding at 16:36 after depositing the wagons in the fuelling point. At 16:42 the diesel extracted 3 coaches from the seawall siding before replacing the Open and Bowsider back in the seawall siding at 16:53. The remaining coach was shunted onto the rake in the yard before the diesel departed light engine for the depot at 17:08. 

First up was David Lloyd George arriving into the FR platform at 09:47 with the ECS Mountain Spirit. The loco ran round at 10:11 and left on time. This was quickly followed by Blanche at 10:15 on the ECS Woodland Wanderer into the WHR platform with run round accomplished by 10:21. Just for a change Prince then arrived in the FR platform at 11:25 with the ECS for the second Woodland Wanderer and ran round at 11:37 for the 11:55.

The lunchtime movements saw No.130 arrive in the WHR platform at 12:52 with the ECS Glaslyn Venturer. Blanche arrived back at 13:17 and at 13:30 Blanche shunted its rake to the station yard. At 13:41 the Fairlie returned into the FR platform as the Garratt departed and Blanche ran round. Once The Cob was clear Blanche shunted its rake to the WHR platform to depart about 5 minutes late at 13:58. Prince returned at 14:23 into the WHR platform and The Fairlie ran round at 14:02 before departing at 14:32. Prince arrived at 14:13 and ran to the yard to coal and water at 14:22. At 14:43 it returned to its train for the final 14:55 Woodland Wanderer run of the day.

First up was David Lloyd George arriving into the FR platform at 10:05 with the Mountain Spirit. The loco ran round at 10:10 and left on time. This was quickly followed by Blanche at 10:18 on the Woodland Wanderer into the WHR platform with run round accomplished by 10:23. Welsh Pony then arrived in the FR platform at 11:25 and ran round at 11:33 for the 11:55 Woodland Wanderer. However the loco removed the rear two coaches and shunted them to the seawall siding at 11:39. Lightening the load reduces coal consumption and in this case the rake was left with 5 saloons.

The lunchtime movements saw No.130 arrive in the WHR platform at 12:33 with the ECS Glaslyn Venturer. Blanche arrived back at 13:22 and at 13:29 Blanche shunted its rake to the station yard and at 13:39 the Fairlie returned into the FR platform. At 13:40 No.130 departed as Blanche ran round. The Fairlie returned at 13:51 into the FR platform and once The Cob was clear Blanche shunted its rake to the WHR platform to depart about 5 minutes late at 14:00. Welsh Pony returned at 14:23 into the WHR platform and the Fairlie ran round at the same time. Welsh Pony was ran round at 14:30 ready for the final 14:55 Woodland Wanderer run of the day.

First up was David Lloyd George arriving into the FR platform at 09:56 with the Mountain Spirit. The loco ran round at 10:01 and left on time. This was quickly followed by Blanche at 10:16 on the Woodland Wanderer into the WHR platform with run round accomplished by 10:21. Welsh Pony then arrived in the FR platform at 11:30 and ran round at 11:35 for the new 11:55 Woodland Wanderer departure.

While Russell went to Dinas understandably early to test out operational procedures on the FR, Palmerston, which has appeared on the WHR before, left for Dinas today, departing Porthmadog with a very short 3 coach rake including a brake coach No.10 and saloons Nos.23/24. The timing load indicates the WHHR are confident that Russell, with its four coach rake, is more powerful than Palmerston.

This easterly view (29/7/22) shows Palmerston with its 3 coach heritage train departing Porthmadog for Dinas. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a webcam. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

F&WHR 29/7/22

The forecast was for sunny periods at Porthmadog and 21C maximum temperatures. There was ONE trains from Caernarfon (the Snowdonia Star) but FIVE trains from Porthmadog (two Woodland Wanderer, two Mountain Spirit trains and The Harbourmaster train). It seems the holiday peak is continuing as the Woodland Wanderer train was fully booked in the morning. The Harbourmaster standard fares were initially not present on the Fareharbor system, which might indicate Sold Out, but Gold and Beddgelert tickets for this train were available. Saturday's through trains on the WHR have been suspended as well Sunday's Gelert Explorer as the WHR Dinas to Rhyd Ddu section is being used both days for WHR 100 events.

First up today was No.130 which rolled into the WHR at 09:05 with the ECS for 09:40 The Harbourmaster. David Lloyd George arrived with the ECS for the Mountain Spirit at 10:12 and ran round at 10:16 as Blanche approached with the ECS for the Woodland Wanderer. Blanche arrived in the WHR platform at 10:21 and ran round at 10:37 after the Fairlie had departed.

Weather for WHR 100 Event

The Met Office is forecasting overcast weather around the WHR 100 Event and even some drizzle Saturday afternoon. Sunday morning might see some heavy rain but improving a little by Sunday afternoon with sunshine possible.

New Premier Inn advert

'Right next to the Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways, with views of Black Rock Sands Beach on one side and the peaks of Snowdonia on the other.' While better than previous attempts, the new Porthmadog Premier Inn advert might be a bit misleading to describe the views of Porthmadog Harbour/Glaslyn Estuary as 'Black Rock Sands Beach, which begins at Ynys Cyngar, about 2 miles distant and around a headland.

WHR History

IT’S HISTORY WEEK AND THE F&WHR IS CELEBRATING AN HISTORIC ANNIVERSARY

The first themed week of the #LoveYourRailway campaign is all about - History - which is good timing, as this weekend the F&WHR starts the Welsh Highland Railway Centenary celebrations! 100 years ago, the former North Wales Narrow Gauge Railway reopened under new management as the Welsh Highland Railway - running trains between Dinas and South Snowdon (now known as Rhyd Ddu). This weekend will see the F&WHR re-enacting the original timetable, with vintage trains using original (and replica) stock.

The only surviving original Welsh Highland Railway steam locomotive, 1906 Hunslet 2-6-2T Russell, will be hauling a heritage train of carriages from its home base at the Welsh Highland Heritage Railway in Porthmadog. A second train will use the F&WHR's 1864 England 0-4-0STT Palmerston and F&WHR heritage carriages - this loco was used during the construction of the NWNGR in 1876, working out of Dinas, then in 1922 worked for William McAlpine on the Welsh Highland Railway construction further south.

There will be plenty to keep visitors occupied over the weekend, in addition to the Russell and Palmerston Heritage Trains, there will be an Evening Photo Charter, a vintage shuttle bus service, Footplate Rides, Model Layouts, Photo Exhibitions, pre-1939 Vintage Car displays, Catering Vans, a Cake stand and a Real Ale Bar.

There will also be complementary activities at the Welsh Highland Heritage Railway in Porthmadog over the weekend. Further information on this event can be found on the website; WHR 100 Event.

Historical note:

The North Wales Narrow Gauge Railway completed the section of line from Dinas to Rhyd Ddu in 1881, which was subsequently taken over by the Welsh Highland Railway in 1922. The new company re-activated a 1914 Light Railway Order in order to complete the 'missing' link between Rhyd-Ddu and Porthmadog which had been partially completed in 1906 by the Porthmadog Beddgelert and South Snowdon Railway. The WHR finally opened in its entirety in 1923 (which will be celebrated with a further Centenary event next year.) Sadly, after a somewhat turbulent financial and operational history the railway closed in 1937 and was scrapped in World War 2.

The railway has always held a special attraction among railway enthusiasts, who were keen to see it rebuilt for modern day tourists to enjoy. After many years of effort by various groups and individuals, along with generous grants from EU Regional Funding programmes, the aspirations of the directors of the NWNGR were finally realised in 2010, when the ‘Rheilffordd Eryri/Welsh Highland Railway’ was opened all the way from Caernarfon to Porthmadog.

F&WHR 28/7/22

Wednesday was planned to be a repeat of Tuesday's services. The forecast was for a cloudy day at Porthmadog and 18C maximum temperatures. There were TWO trains from Caernarfon (the Gelert Explorer and the new Cwellyn Caernarfon to Rhyd Ddu service) but FIVE trains from Porthmadog (two Woodland Wanderer, two Mountain Spirit trains and the afternoon Glaslyn Venturer train). It seems the holiday peak has arrived as both Woodland Wanderer trains were fully booked in the morning but it did not appear that there was any attempt to add the additional set for the Woodland Wanderer as there was room on both the Mountain Spirit trains and the Glaslyn Venturer.

Surprisingly the new 12:30 Cwellyn service was also fully booked very early today. This service carries an additional coach for hop on-hop off passengers to join/get off at intermediate stations, such as Waunfawr, if room allows, like all other F&WHR services except the Woodland Wanderer. If this train is successful without abstraction from the Gelert Explorer, its operation may be reviewed after the first week and extended from TThO as currently planned to TWThO.

First up today was David Lloyd George which pulled in at 10:02 with the ECS Mountain Spirit and the loco ran round at 10:13. Blanche arrived at 10:17 with the Woodland Wanderer and ran round at 10:22.

The lunchtime rush saw No.130 arrive in the WHR platform at 12:58 with the ECS for the Glaslyn Venturer. Blanche arrived at 13:02 with the returning Woodland Wanderer. Blanche shunted the rake into the yard at 13:20 and back into the WHR platform at 13:46 shortly after the Garratt vacated it. The Fairlie was then able to complete its run round at 13:58 in preparation for the 14:30 Mountain Spirit. 

At the end of the day Blanche arrived back in the FR platform at 16:15. No.130 rolled back into the WHR platform at 16:22 as Blanche ran round. Blanche departed with the ECS at 16:26 and the Garratt followed ECS at 16:36 after The Cob section was clear. The Fairlie arrived back at 17:38, ran round at 17:47 and departed ECS at 17:49 to end the day's activities.

Russell 24/7/22

This southerly view (24/7/22) shows Russell with its heritage train having arrived at Dinas. The group of WHHR staff who made the transfer possible in gathered in front of the loco. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Tom Waldren and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Race the Train 20/7/22

The annual Race the Train event was run on 20/7/22 with No.87 hauling the competitors to Dinas in the evening and pacing the runners downhill to Caernarfon. A childrens' race from Hendy level crossing was run first, after the Gelert Explorer had returned, again with the train pacing the children.

F&WHR 27/7/22

Wednesday was forecast to be a day with sunny periods later at Porthmadog and 18C maximum temperatures. There was ONE train from Caernarfon (the Gelert Explorer) but FIVE trains from Porthmadog (two Woodland Wanderer, two Mountain Spirit trains and the afternoon Glaslyn Venturer train). Yesterday's Cwellyn train ran nearly full but a decision on extending the service to Wednesdays as well seems to have been put off until next week as the timetable remains TThO at the moment. This may be to check for any abstraction from the Gelert Explorer service which has higher fares, though it was fully booked on Tuesday despite the inaugural Cwellyn service. On the FR the Woodland Wanderer could also abstract income from the higher fare Mountain Spirit which might explain why the spare set has not yet been activated.

It seems the holiday peak has arrived as both Woodland Wanderer and both Mountain Spirit trains were again fully booked this morning but it did not appear that there was any attempt to add the additional set for the two extra Woodland Wanderer paths. There may be an issue of staff resources as there appear to be a few serviceable locos available e.g. Prince. Presumably passengers who found all the FR trains booked could switch to the Glaslyn Venturer.

First up today was David Lloyd George with the ECS for the 10:30 Mountain Spirit which arrived in the FR platform at 09:58. The loco ran round at 10:10. Next was Blanche with the ECS for the 10:55 Woodland Wanderer which arrived in the WHR platform at 10:21 and ran round at 10:35 after the Mountain Spirit had departed.

At 13:00 No.130 rolled in with the ECS for the afternoon Glaslyn Venturer. If traffic grows this will be supplemented by a morning working too. Blanche arrived back at 13:15 and notable in the rake in replica NWNGR coach No.24, which some might have thought would be included with WHR coach No.23 in Palmerston's rake at the WHR 100 Event this weekend as the event celebrates the reopening of the NWNGR section of the line from Dinas to Rhyd Ddu. Blanche shunted the rake to the yard at 13:20 and ran round at 13:40 as the Fairlie arrived back. At 13:43 the rake was shunted to the WHR platform for the 13:55 Woodland Wanderer which left on time. The Fairlie ran round at 14:09 ready for the 14:30 Mountain Spirit.

First back was Blanche at 16:08. At 16:22 No.130 returned while Blanche ran round. Blanche departed with the ECS at 16:25 and No.130 followed at 16:37 with the ECS Glaslyn Venturer. The Fairlie returned and 17:32 and ran round at 17:48. The final movements of the day came when the ECS departed at 17:51.

Moving Pictures No.68 26/7/22

Click on the YouTube link to watch 18 minute 05 seconds of video covering the rather wet ECS Russell journey to Dinas on 24/7/22 and the annual Race the Train event on 20/7/22. This video was published on 26/7/22 and is best viewed at 1080p with Chrome. This video was produced by John Wooden (F&WHR) on a professional 4K Betamax camcorder.

'Love your railway' returns!

On 25/7/22, the F&WHR kicked off another 6-week #LoveYourRailway campaign to raise awareness of the importance of heritage railways. The railway is looking forward to welcoming visitors to North Wales for a busy season, and over the Summer period the railway will be teaming up with some of the much-loved railways across the UK to celebrate all that makes heritage railways so very special. Keep a lookout as each week of #LoveYourRailway is themed on social media and will feature inspiring stories, facts, statistics, stunning imagery and content for supporters to like, share and get involved in. Make sure to get involved by sharing your photos, memories and any stories that show why you love the Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways - just add them on social media with the tag #LoveYourRailway.

New Chris Magner Cambrian Coast Line book

Chris Magner has just brought out 'The CAMBRIAN COAST LINE -the story of those who fought for the Railway'.  Fully illustrated 120 plus pages.  £16.50 inc postage details from Chris Magner, 21 Dunval Road, Bridgnorth.  WV16 4NA. Also available from WHHR bookshop.

F&WHR 26/7/22

Tuesday was forecast to be an improving day with sunny periods later at Porthmadog and 17C maximum temperatures. The expected summer holiday rush has not impacted the F&WHR yet with a subdued Monday service planned. There were TWO trains from Caernarfon (the Gelert Explorer and the new Cwellyn Caernarfon to Rhyd Ddu service) but FIVE trains from Porthmadog (two Woodland Wanderer, two Mountain Spirit trains and the afternoon Glaslyn Venturer train). It seems the holiday peak has arrived as both Woodland Wanderer and both Mountain Spirit trains were fully booked in the morning but it did not appear that there was any attempt to add the additional set for the Woodland Wanderer. Presumably passengers who found all the FR trains booked could switch to the Glaslyn Venturer. Surprisingly the Gelert Explorer was also fully booked so it is just as well that the new Cwellyn service ran today. Lyd was confirmed as the haulage for the 12:30 Cwellyn service. If this is successful without abstraction from other services, its operation may be extended from TThO as currently planned to TWThO.

The first train of the day was the ECS for the 10:30 Mountain Spirit hauled by David Lloyd George which arrived into the FR platform at 09:57. Blanche arrived with the ECS for the 10:55 Woodland Wanderer into the WHR platform at 10:23 as the Fairlie ran round. The Woodland Wanderer rake used had changed today and the rear coach was No.113 not the two brake coaches Nos.11/12 used on the rear of the normal set. Blanche waited for the Mountain Spirit to depart before running round at 10:35.

No.130 pulled in with the ECS for the 13:40 Glaslyn Venturer at 12:59. Blanche arrived back at 13:11 and shunted its rake to the yard at 13:20 to make space for the returning Mountain Spirit in the FR platform. The Fairlie arrived in the FR platform at 13:40 as the Garratt departed. Blanche then ran round and at 13:43 shunted the 13:55 Woodland Wanderer to the WHR platform in good time to load the throng waiting in the sunshine on the platform at 13:47. The Fairlie ran round at 14:13 to prepare for the 14:30 Mountain Spirit.

Blanche arrived back at 16:08, ran round at 16:17 and disposed the ECS, departing at 16:22, just 2 minutes after the Garratt returned. The Garratt then left ECS for Boston Lodge at 16:33. The final train of the day was the Fairlie returning at 17:32, running round at 17:42 and departing ECS for the depot at 17:49 to close the day's activities.

Russell video 24/7/22

Click on the YouTube link to watch 15 minute 26 seconds of video covering the rather wet ECS Russell journey to Dinas on 24/7/22, some pacing and an extended set of views of shunting at Dinas. This video was published using Power Director on 25/7/22 and is best viewed at 1080p with Chrome. This video was produced by Mark Herbert (WHHR) on a camcorder.

Family Days at Dinas 30-31/7/22

In order to maximise the potential of the WHR 100 Event, this coming weekend is also being marketed as Family Days at Dinas.

The first Welsh Highland Centenary event is on this weekend at Dinas station - so come along and help the F&WHR celebrate! Ride the convenient shuttle train from Caernarfon where there is plenty of parking to Dinas, where visitors will find plenty to entertain the whole family.

• See the exhibitions and displays at Dinas Station - including Vintage Road Vehicles and a 16mm live steam layout with beautiful models of original NWNGR and WHR locomotives, carriages and wagons.

• Take a ‘behind the scenes’ tour of Dinas Engine Shed - to see locos being restored and under overhaul. (Saturday - 10:00, 13:00 and 15:00. Sunday - 11:00 and 14:00)

• Enjoy a Footplate Ride on the Quarry Hunslet HUGH NAPIER.

• Grab a bite to eat and drink from the Blas Môn Catering Van, CelEMMAbration Cakes stand and he F&WHR's Real Ale bar.

• See historic locos that worked the line 100 years ago Palmerston or Russell depart/arrive on special workings with historic carriages from the period to Rhyd Ddu.

Combined Shuttle & Dinas Entry tickets are on sale at Caernarfon Station during the weekend - only £10 per Adult and £1 per Child

Shuttle trains leave Caernarfon @ 11:10, 12:30, 14:05, 15:40, 17:00

Trains back to Caernarfon leave @ 11:55, 13:15, 14:50, 16:15, 17:35

F&WHR 25/7/22

Monday was forecast to be an overcast day at Porthmadog with 17C maximum temperatures. The expected summer holiday rush has not impacted the F&WHR yet with a subdued Monday service planned. There was ONE train from Caernarfon (the Gelert Explorer) but FIVE trains from Porthmadog (two Woodland Wanderer, two Mountain Spirit trains and the afternoon Glaslyn Venturer train). Both Woodland Wanderer were fully booked in the morning but there was no attempt to add the additional set. Presumably passengers for Tan-y-bwlch who found the Woodland Wanderer fully booked could buy hop off tickets on the Mountain Spirit and have a longer break there.

The FR services are looking very familiar with regulars David Lloyd George and Blanche despite the availability of 3 England engines. On the other hand Merddin Emrys is no longer available as it is apparently in Boston Lodge with cab and tanks off for serious firebox repairs. First up today was David Lloyd George arriving at 10:03 with the ECS for the 10:30 Mountain Spirit which ran round at 10:10. Blanche arrived at 10:12 sufficiently early to run round at 10:18 without impacting the departure of the Mountain Spirit.

No.130 arrived at 12:37 into the WHR platform for the 13:40 Glaslyn Venturer. This train always seems to arrive an hour before departure time, maybe to allow the crew to have some lunch? Blanche returned somewhat later than normal at 13:25 and ran round at 13:37 ready for the 13:55 Woodland Wanderer departure from the FR platform. After passing Tan-y-bwlch eastbound at 11:09, the Woodland Wanderer did not reappear there at 13:00 or arrive back at Porthmadog at 13:35! The mystery was solved when it was revealed the Fairlie hit a fallen branch. The loco was detached and ran towards Blaenau Ffestiniog to collect a man with a chainsaw at Tan-y-grisiau. Upnor Castle came up to Dduallt. Upnor Castle did pass through Tan-y-bwlch westbound light engine at 13:21.

This easterly view (25/7/22) shows David Lloyd George stopped at what appears to be Dingle curve on The Deviation with a fallen branch lodged between the Observation car and the loco. The loco then detaches to remove the obstruction. Other than a few scrapes there was no damage and the train was able to fulfill its diagram after a delay to clear the line and check the rolling stock. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Rowan Griffiths and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

The Fairlie was noted passing through Tan-y-bwlch at 14:57 some 2 hours late and passing Blanche which had arrived about 20 minutes earlier with the 13:55 Woodland Wanderer. By 15:00 there were a large number of people waiting on the platform for the delayed 14:30 Mountain Spirit, fortunately in the sunshine. The Fairlie rolled in at 15:35 and promptly detached to coal and water. Meanwhile the passengers dispersed after their 5 hour marathon, some 2 hours late. The Fairlie ran round at 15:48 and departed at 15:51 with the 14:30 Mountain Spirit (some 81 minutes late) passing the returning Woodland Wanderer at Minffordd at 16:00.

Blanche arrived back first at 16:12 and ran round at 16:20 as the Garratt rolled in before departing ECS at 16:26. Meanwhile the Fairlie departed Tan-y-bwlch at 16:30, some 75 minutes late, heading for Blaenau Ffestiniog. The Garratt left Porthmadog ECS for the depot at 16:37. The Fairlie passed returned through Tan-y-bwlch at 18:04, some 69 minutes late by cutting back the stop at Blaenau Ffestiniog, departing just 1 minute later. The Mountain Spirit arrived back at Porthmadog at 18:39, some 64 minutes late. Run round came at 18:53 and the ECS departed for the depot at 18:55 to close the day's activities.

The KMX returned to Porthmadog from the WHR during the course of the day presumably after tamping part of the WHR in preparation for the WHR 100 Event and ended up parked outside the old Loco Shed.

Russell goes to Dinas 24/7/22

Russell covered the remaining sections of the WHR between Pen-y-Mount and Dinas through Rhyd Ddu during the afternoon of 24/7/22. This was probably the  first time for the loco between Beddgelert and Waunfawr since the line closed in 1936. There were some ECS movements in 19/6/1937 and 21/6/1937 when it was clear the FR would not be offering Summer services that year and Russell moved WHR rolling stock from Boston Lodge to Dinas.

Maybe the day was chosen because of wet conditions which would reduce fire risk on the 1 in 40 Beddgelert Forest section. The WHHR's Andrew Goodwin was on hand to cover the ECS stock transfer as was the F&WHR's Chris Parry (thanks to both for images). Next week the loco will be reversed to run chimney first from Dinas up to Rhyd Ddu by using a low loader fitted with rails and reversing it in Dinas North Yard. Test runs to Rhyd Ddu are likely this week and the provision of an air brake fitted rescue diesel cannot be ruled out but the replica brake coach No.8 is dual fitted.

This southerly view (24/7/22) shows Russell being prepared to haul its epic journey to Dinas with the ECS heritage rake for the WHR 100 Event as seen at Gelert's Farm depot. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Andrew Goodwin (WHHR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (24/7/22) shows Russell hauling the ECS WHHR heritage rake to Dinas for the WHR 100 Event as seen crossing Pont Croesor bridge in atrocious weather. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (24/7/22) shows Russell hauling the ECS heritage rake to Dinas for the WHR 100 Event approaching Bryn-y-felin bridge. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Andrew Goodwin (WHHR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (24/7/22) shows Russell hauling the ECS heritage rake to Dinas for the WHR 100 Event passing through the Beddgelert Forest in the rain. This is believed to be the first time the loco has reached here since the line's closure in 1936. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post =processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (24/7/22) shows Russell hauling the ECS heritage rake to Dinas for the WHR 100 Event arriving at Rhyd Ddu in the rain. This is believed to be the first time the loco has reached here since the line's closure in 1936 and the ECS movements of 1937. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (24/7/22) shows Russell hauling the ECS heritage rake to Dinas for the WHR 100 Event waiting at Rhyd Ddu in the rain for the token. This is believed to be the first time the loco has reached here since the line's closure in 1936. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (24/7/22) shows Russell hauling the ECS heritage rake to Dinas for the WHR 100 Event arriving at Rhyd Ddu in the rain. This is believed to be the first time the loco has reached here since the line's closure in 1936. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Andrew Goodwin (WHHR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (24/7/22) shows Russell hauling the ECS heritage rake to Dinas for the WHR 100 Event departing Rhyd Ddu. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (24/7/22) shows Russell hauling the ECS heritage rake to Dinas for the WHR 100 Event approaching Plas-y-nant. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Andrew Goodwin (WHHR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (24/7/22) shows Russell hauling the ECS heritage rake to Dinas for the WHR 100 Event passing Plas-y-nant. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (24/7/22) shows Russell hauling the ECS heritage rake to Dinas for the WHR 100 Event passing Waunfawr. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Andrew Goodwin (WHHR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (24/7/22) shows Russell hauling the ECS heritage rake to Dinas for the WHR 100 Event approaching Waunfawr. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (24/7/22) shows Russell hauling the ECS heritage rake to Dinas for the WHR 100 Event approaching Dinas. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (24/7/22) shows Russell shunting at Dinas after hauling the ECS heritage rake for the WHR 100 Event. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Andrew Goodwin (WHHR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (24/7/22) shows Russell hauling the ECS heritage rake and arriving at Dinas for the WHR 100 Event. Vale of Ffestiniog is visible in the yard. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Andrew Goodwin (WHHR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

F&WHR 24/7/22

Sunday was forecast to be an overcast day at Porthmadog with occasional drizzle and 19C maximum temperatures. The expected summer holiday rush has not impacted the F&WHR yet with a subdued Sunday service planned. There was ONE train from Caernarfon (the Gelert Explorer) but FOUR trains from Porthmadog (two Woodland Wanderer, a morning Mountain Spirit train and the morning Glaslyn Venturer train). The 13:55 Woodland Wanderer was fully booked in the morning.

No.130 turned up ECS at 09:18 for the 10:15 Glaslyn Venturer. This was followed by David Lloyd George at 10:01 with the ECS for the 10:30 Mountain Spirit, running round at 10:10. Once the Garratt departed, Blanche followed into the WHR platform with the ECS for the 10:55 but was a little too late to run round. It ran round at 10:35 after the Mountain Spirit had cleared station limits.

A surprise visitor at 11:30 was Lyd with a 5 coach rake heading for Dinas. This might be the train being used in the new Cwellyn service starting Tuesday 26/7/22. It consisted of coach No.106, a saloon, a brake coach another saloon and Observation Car No.101 on the rear. The train departed at 11:53 for Dinas. The Garratt arrived back at 12:56 in poor weather and Blanche followed at 13:10. The Garratt left ECS at 13:13 as the WHR path was required by Russell and its Heritage rake which was booked to depart Pen-y-Mount at 14:00 for Dinas, following the Gelert Explorer's return journey.

Blanche ran round at 13:33 ready for the 13:55 departure while the Fairlie arrived back in the WHR platform at 13:38. The Fairlie ran to the fuelling and watering point in the station yard at 13:44 and returned to complete the run round at 14:04 before departing ECS at 14:14. The weather had improved a little by the end of the afternoon when Blanche returned at 16:07. Run round came at 16:14 and the ECS departed at 16:19 to close the day.

WHR 100 Event preparations 23/7/22

This westerly view (23/7/22) shows Russell in service with the heritage rake. The loco was due to make its way to Dinas the following day with the rake for use at the WHR 100 Event. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Andrew Goodwin (WHHR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Reopening Aberystwyth-Carmarthen link latest

Reopening the Aberystwyth-Carmarthen rail ink is included in the latest Welsh National Transport plan which is out for consultation. The scheme is now defined as the Swansea-Aberystwyth Rail Link which may mean a switch in focus to using the Central Wales line to Llandeilo and about 20 miles of new construction between there and Lampeter following the Dulais and Cothi/Twrch valleys through Talley and Ffarmers to a short 1km summit tunnel under the Cambrian mountains close to Lampeter. This route has been surveyed many times in the past for proposed Victorian railways which came to nothing and avoids the displacement of the Gwili Railway between Carmarthen and Llanpumsaint whilst providing a shorter direct route between Aberystwyth and Swansea (missing out Carmarthen).

Strangely the project is appraised as negative on Landscape/Heritage/Ecosystems even though it is acknowledged to provide new public transport opportunities and reduce car travel! Harking back to the route's closure after flooding in the Ystwyth valley in February 1965, the project brief states the development and route selection of the Swansea to Aberystwyth Rail link should consider resilience to flooding and coastal erosion, as well as to extreme weather events, with the route avoiding coastlines where possible. No part of the line as currently proposed runs along the Cambrian Coast.

The Aberystwyth-Swansea rail link timeline sees research to define the project 2022-5 and joint funding of the necessary outline design and powers 2025-7. Previous feasibility projects have been conducted and are available on line on the TRAWS website. The new WAG documents can be viewed on line and an online form allows feedback. Consultation comes to an end on 11/10/22. The documents can be downloaded here. Sadly reopening the Bangor-Afonwen missing rail link does not feature in the document which focusses largely on South Wales, an often criticised aspect of WAG, which is based in Cardiff.

Timetable w/c 25/7/72

Click on the image to enlarge. Click again for full size where available. This image is courtesy F&WHR.

F&WHR 23/7/22

Saturday was forecast to be a rainy day at Porthmadog with maximum temperatures of 18C. There was ONE train from Caernarfon (the Snowdonia Star) but FIVE trains from Porthmadog (two Woodland Wanderer, two Mountain Spirit trains and the Harbourmaster train). Despite it being the first weekend of the school summer holidays only two Woodland Wanderer trains are planned.

No.130 arrived at 09:02 with the ECS for the 09:40 Harbourmaster through train to Caernarfon. With the drizzle creating good condensation steam effects David Lloyd George arrived with the ECS for the 10:30 Mountain Spirit at 10:05. The Fairlie ran round at 10:15 as Blanche approached the WHR platform at 10:21 with the ECS 10:55 Woodland Wanderer. Blanche had a tight run round at 10:27 minutes before the Mountain Spirit departed.

No.87 pulled in at 12:15 with the Snowdonia Star, uncoupled and ran to the station yard to coal and water at 12:20. At 12:55 the loco ran round its train prior to the return of Blanche at 13:15. The loco shunted its rake to the sidings at 13:24 leaving the FR platform clear for the Fairlie's return at 13:43. Blanche ran round at 13:45 and propelled its rake into the far end of the FR platform by 13:51 just in time for the 13:55 departure which left 3 minutes late! The Fairlie ran round at 14:15. Diesel Harlech Castle arrived in the FR yard at 14:18 with two coal wagons. It later emerged from the yard  at 14:35 and departed at 14:45 light engine back to Boston Lodge.

At the end of the afternoon Blanche returned at 16:15 and ran round at 16:22, still in wet conditions before departing ECS at 16:27. The Garratt arrived at 16:37 and departed ECS at 16:52. The final working was the Fairlie arriving back at 17:36 and running round at 17:49 before departing ECS at 17:53 to close a very wet day at Porthmadog!

Preparations for WHR 100 Event

The WHR 100 Event is just a week away and final preparations for the event are underway. Sometime in the next few days, Palmerston and another small FR engine will make their way to Dinas along with an FR 'Colonel Stephens' rake (presumably including Nos.23/24). Palmerston will be used on two of the four workings each day from Dinas to Rhyd Ddu and the other small engine will be used on the Cwellyn service which starts TThO initially from Tuesday 26/7/22.

Russell is in service on the WHHR this weekend but will be turned via low loader to face uphill Dinas to Rhyd Ddu and sent to Dinas next week with the WHHR train previously identified. It is likely to be involved in some test runs prior to the WHR 100 Event weekend. After the event Russell will return early Sunday evening to Pen-y-Mount. There will also be events at the WHHR and there has already seen some testing of the skip train.

This northerly view (22/7/22) shows the FR's skip train on test at the WHHR near Pen-y-Mount junction. The skips are top and tailed by diesel shunters, the nearest of which is thought to be the Motor Rail used in the construction of the WHR some 100 years ago. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Andrew Goodwin (WHHR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

F&WHR 22/7/22

Porthmadog was forecast to be a day of improving weather after an overcast start with 18C max and sunny periods later. There was ONE train from Caernarfon (the Snowdonia Star) but FIVE trains from Porthmadog (two Woodland Wanderer, two Mountain Spirit trains and the Harbourmaster train). The majority of schools do not break up until the end of this week so the F&WHR is expected to run a more intense service from next week with additional Cwellyn trains on the WHR and additional FR services such as two rakes running up to 4 Woodland Wanderer trains per day.

The first train of the day was The Harbourmaster hauled by No.130 which arrived ECS at 09:20 in the WHR platform. David Lloyd George arrived at 09:58 with the ECS for the 10:30 Mountain Spirit and ran round at 10:13 as Lyd approached the WHR with the 10:55 Woodland Wanderer. Lyd arrived at 10:19 and ran round at 10:25.

No.87 arrived with the Snowdonia Star at 12:!4 and the loco detached and ran to the watering point at 12:18 as Lyd arrived back. No.87 ran round at 13:13. At 13:15 Lyd shunted its rake to the yard. The Fairlie arrived back at 13:47 allowing Lyd to shunt out of the sidings and back into the end of the FR platform where the crowd was waiting for the 13:55 Woodland Wanderer. Lyd left some 5 minutes late allowing the Fairlie to run round but the other two trains left on time.

At the end of the day Lyd arrived back at 16:10 and ran round at 16:20 before departing ECS at 16:24. No.130 arrived back at 16:38 and departed ECS at 16:48. Last back was the Fairlie at 17:33 which ran round at 17:48 and departed ECS at 17:52 to close the day's activities.

WHR 100 Event price drop

The F&WHR has responded to comments about ticket prices for this event and has made the £60 Rover ticket a two day Rover. Those who have already bought a Day Rover will be able to use it on both days.

For full details:

It is just a week away from the first Welsh Highland Centenary event - come along and help the F&WHR celebrate.

Here are some of the things visitors can enjoy:

▪ Ride behind 1906 Hunslet RUSSELL and 1864 Geo.England PALMERSTON on heritage trains between Dinas and South Snowdon, recreating services from July 1922.

▪ Join a ‘behind the scenes’ tour of Dinas Workshops - to see the NG15 No.134 locomotive restoration, NG/G16 No. 143 overhaul and discuss the projects with some of the team.

▪ See the exhibitions and displays at Dinas Station - including Vintage Road Vehicles and a 16mm live steam layout with models of original NWNGR and WHR locomotives.

▪ Travel on a 1955 Whiteways bus between Dinas and Rhyd Ddu, with a photo-stop along the way.

▪ Footplate Rides on Quarry Hunslet HUGH NAPIER.

▪ Enjoy a bite to eat and drink at Dinas - from the Blas Môn Catering Van, CelEMMAbration Cakes stand and our Real Ale bar.

There will also be activities taking place on the Welsh Highland Heritage Railway in Porthmadog over the ‘WHR 100’ weekend.

Detailed information is available @ https://www.festrail.co.uk/book-your-whr100-event-rover.../

Tickets can also be purchased by phone (01766 516024) or in person at Harbour Station (09:00-16:00).

PLEASE NOTE:

The F&WHR is now selling ‘Saturday and Sunday Event Rover’ tickets for Adults £60 and Children £30.

If you have already purchased a Day ticket, you will now be able to use this as an Event Rover on both days of the weekend. This will give you more time to see everything, as well as visiting the Welsh Highland Heritage Railway at Porthmadog (separate ticket required).

Blanche and Welsh Pony steamed 19/7/22

A small engine is going to the WHR's Dinas depot to be outstabled for the new Cwellyn service from next Thursday. There is some speculation about which loco it will be. Palmerston is already going the WHR 100 Event. Will the Cwellyn service be hauled by Blanche or Welsh Pony? Obviously the England engine is the more historically appropriate, though Blanche has been used on the WHR before.

F&WHR 21/7/22

Porthmadog was forecast to be a day of sunny periods with 19C max and sunny periods. There was ONE train from Caernarfon (the Gelert Explorer) but FIVE trains from Porthmadog (two Woodland Wanderer, two Mountain Spirit trains and the afternoon Glaslyn Venturer train). The Harbour Station webcam was working again and the 10:55 Woodland Wanderer was sold out. The majority of schools do not break up until the end of this week so the F&WHR is still operating a low season service.

First up was David Lloyd George with the ECS for the Mountain Spirit which arrived in the WHR platform at 10:00. The loco ran round at 10:10 as Lyd approached the WHR platform with the ECS for the10:55 Woodland Wanderer which arrived at 10:14 and ran round at 10:22. The third train was the Glaslyn Venturer hauled by No.130 which arrived at 12:48.

Lyd arrived back at 13:09 and propelled its rake back onto The Cob at 13:17. The loco then drew the Woodland Wanderer back into the yard and cleared the platform for the Fairlie which arrived back at 13:37. Lyd ran round and following departure of the Garratt, propelled its rake into the WHR platform at 13:49.

First back at the end of the day was Lyd at 16:07. The loco ran round 10 minutes later and departed ECS at 16:20 with the Garratt running in at 16:23 with the returning Glaslyn Venturer. The last train in was the Mountain Spirit at about 17:30.

Heat disruption 19/7/22

While heat and the risk of lineside fires impacted both NR and some heritage lines, the ability of some heritage lines to run diesel services at low speed meant they could continue. The Vale of Rheidol cancelled services on both Tuesday 19/7/22 and Wednesday 20/7/22 meaning its advertised first public service hauled by Garratt No.60 did not occur. The FR kept operating though rail temperatures rose to 50C in direct sunlight with expansion gaps proving adequate for the rail expansion.

Skips at the WHHR 18/6/22

This northerly view (18/7/22) shows the FR's skip train stored at the WHHR at Gelert's Farm. The skips will be used to recreate construction trains on the WHR 100 years ago during the WHR 100 Event at the end of July. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Andrew Goodwin (WHHR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Webmaster's Holiday

Your webmaster is taking a few day's holiday from 18/7/22 at his alma mater UCW Aberystwyth. Normal service will be restored on Thursday 21/7/22.

F&WHR 17/7/22

Sunday was forecast to be another sunny and increasingly warm day at Porthmadog with maximum temperatures of 27C. The initial plan was for ONE train from Caernarfon (the Gelert Explorer) but FOUR trains from Porthmadog (two Woodland Wanderer, one morning Mountain Spirit and the morning Glaslyn Venturer train). The Harbour Station webcam was still out of action all day again.

Up at Tan-y-bwlch David Lloyd George arrived  at 11:14 on the 10:30 Mountain Spirit and departed 7 minutes later for Blaenau Ffestiniog. Blanche arrived with the 10:55 Woodland Wanderer at 11:44. The lightly loaded train departed for Porthmadog at 12:32. The Fairlie returned to Tan-y-bwlch at 12:59, pausing for just 3 minutes to collect the token. Blanche returned at 14:36 with the 12:55 Woodland Wanderer train. This train was not shunted today as the following 14:30 Mountain Spirit has been cancelled due to anticipated lack of demand with the hot weather. The train departed for Porthmadog at 15:32 as the final working of the day.

WHR 100 Event at WHHR

The WHHR is also celebrating the WHR 100 event. The F&WHR sent the WHHR a rake of skips to demonstrate construction trains on 26/6/22. Now a Motor Rail diesel has arrived that can replicate the construction scenes of 100 years ago with realistic rolling stock.

This westerly view (16/7/22) shows a Motor Rail diesel being delivered to the WHHR at Gelert's Farm. The loco will be used with the skip train to demonstrate construction trains as used to complete the WHR 100 years ago. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Andrew Goodwin (WHHR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

There will also be complementary activities at Porthmadog on the WHHR over the weekend. These will include operation of an intensive steam service with Gelert and a recreation of a construction train hauled by what is believed to be the only surviving internal combustion locomotive used in the building of the original Welsh Highland Railway. More details will be available on the WHHR Facebook page and website.

Day tickets will be available for purchase in person at the time of visiting, at the WHHR ticket office and shop on Tremadog Road. The prices for each day are set at Family £37.50, Adult £14.50 and Child £7.00, but Dinas Day Rover holders, FRS, WHRS, WHRHG and WHHR members and F&WHR staff will be welcome to travel at normal prices (Family £30.00, Adult £11.50 and Child £5.50) on presentation of their Day Rover ticket, valid membership card or staff pass.

Timetable w/c 18/7/22

Click on the image to enlarge. Click again for full size where available. This image is courtesy F&WHR.

F&WHR 16/7/22

Saturday was forecast to be a sunny day in Porthmadog with a maximum temperatures of 21C. The FSO service pattern has become well established with ONE train from Caernarfon (the Snowdonia Star) but FOUR trains from Porthmadog (two Woodland Wanderer, two Mountain Spirit and the Harbourmaster through train). Only the morning Mountain Spirit was shown initially. The Harbour station webcam was unavailable all day.

David Lloyd George arrived at Tan-y-bwlch at 11:05 on the 10:30 Mountain Spirit and departed at 11:10 for Blaenau Ffestiniog. It was followed by Blanche passing Minffordd at 11:06 on the 10:55 Woodland Wanderer with a well loaded train. Blanche left for Porthmadog at 12:34 on the return run. The Fairlie arrived at Tan-y-bwlch on its return journey at 12:57, departing for Porthmadog at 13:01.

Blanche arrived back at Tan-y-bwlch on the 13:55 at 14:36 which was lightly loaded. The rake contained WHR coach No.23 which might be due to go to Dinas to form part of Palmerston's WHR 100 Event rake (along with NWNGR replica coach No.24?) and also operate in the new Cwellyn midday Caernarfon-Rhyd Ddu rake. At 14:48 the rake was shunted to the westbound platform leaving the eastbound platform free for the Fairlie to arrive with the 14:30 Mountain Spirit at 15:06. The Fairlie left at 15:12 and Blanche at 15:35. The Fairlie return to Tan-y-bwlch at 16:58 from Blaenau Ffestiniog and continues on its final trip at 16:59 to close the day's activities. There was still a problem with the Harbour Station webcam at the end of the day. Today's light loadings are a traditional feature of hot days on the F&WHR when many holidaymakers prefer the beach.

North Wales main line 15-16/7/22

The launch event of the Class 197 at Chester did not invite many commentators but a new female Youtuber/enthusiast GLoves Trains did gain access. Click here to see her revealing video of the Class 197.

Nationally, freight is back to pre-COVID levels and growing strongly. A new working has appeared out of Penmaenmawr, 6K17 the 16:53 SSuX to Crewe Basford Hall SSM. The working was cancelled every day this week so it may be a path that is yet to be used regularly or has yet to start operation. Penmaenmawr is still providing a regular stone flow to Tuebrook, Liverpool with Class 60 haulage. The slate waste working from Llandudno Junction yard has not started either despite the terminal on Glan Conwy curve being finished earlier this year and the siding being connected and signalled.

On Friday 15/7/22 there was another trial run of the Aberystwyth-Chirk logs with Class 37s Nos.97302 (ex 37170) and 37418 ran round in Aberystwyth after working 6C54 earlier Friday, the 0205 Chirk-Aberystwyth empties, arriving at 05:34 at sunrise. The loaded train departed 10 mins late at 16:05 and ran via Crewe and Chester as the second run, arriving at Chirk Chronospan on time at 23:55. With three successful trips now under it belt Chronospan may soon decide to make this a weekly run rather than a random STP.