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At Talyllyn Railway they still have the complete original passenger train, dating from the 1860s, which they occasionally run as a special. This "Victorian Train" makes a complete day out, with plenty of photo opportunities.
We boarded the train at
Tywyn.
On the move.
Single track railways rely on a system of keys to ensure that all the trains on a section of track are heading in the same direction. A train cannot enter a section of track without a key and it can't leave the section without relinquishing it. Rather stopping to exchange keys a skilled driver and signalman can do it on the fly:
A very nicely done key exchange at Pendre.
Passing through the works.
The countryside between Pendre and Rhydyronen.
At Rhydyronen the train backed up so we could take photographs of it arriving.
The guards' wagon is also the ticket office.
Signal box at Brynglas
Watering at Dolgoch Falls. The
Victorian
Train uses the original water tower with its wooden trough. Later engines
have a more modern water tower that doesn't splash quite so much.
Once again the train backs up for a photo opportunity, this time crossing the
Dolgoch viaduct.
The crew take a well earned rest while the passengers explore the falls.
On our way to Abergynolwyn.
We stopped for a short break at Abergynolwyn before continuing on to Nant
Gwernol.
The train runs up to Nant Gwernol twice from Abergynolwyn so those that are able
to can enjoy the walks.
There is some very pretty scenery.
However, we returned to Abergynolwyn with the train for lunch, passing a lovely
little waterfall on the way.
MRFS
After lunch in the cafe at Abergynolwyn the train returns to Nant Gwernol to get
the walkers.
While we look around the signal box.
The train returns from Nant Gwernol.
MRFS again.
We have a short wait while the regular scheduled service runs into Abergynolwyn.
Our guide.
On return to Pendre we had a guided tour around the works.
Tywyn station, just what a station should
be.
Back at the campsite again.
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