Ffestiniog Railway, Heritage narrow-gauge railway in Porthmadog, Wales.
The Ffestiniog Railway is a narrow-gauge line that connects Porthmadog harbor with Blaenau Ffestiniog across roughly 22 kilometers through Snowdonia National Park. The route passes through wooded sections, over stone viaducts, and along mountainsides with views of lakes and valleys.
The railway began operating in 1836 to carry slate from the quarries to ships at the harbor. From 1865 onward, it also carried passengers and became the first narrow-gauge passenger line in Britain.
The line runs through areas whose place names reflect the Welsh language and the region's long tradition. Local volunteers help maintain the carriages and locomotives, giving the operation a community character.
Trains run mainly between March and October, with several departures from both terminals on most days. Visitors who want to experience the full route should allow around four hours for the round trip.
On board are double Fairlie locomotives equipped with two boilers that can run in both directions. This design eliminates the need for turning at the end of the line and allows direct continuation.
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