A sunny day out along one of the most impressive scenic railways in the world

Consisting of two branches from Machynlleth to Aberystwyth and Pwllheli the line boasts one of the most stunningly attractive coastal rail journeys in the country.

Your journey will take you from the beautiful Shropshire town of Shrewsbury into the majestic Welsh countryside passing through the Dyfi Biosphere Reserve and Snowdonia National Park. Get your camera ready as the line hugs the coast along the Cambrian Coast.

Take time to discover the rich heritage of the area as you explore historic castles and fortresses at Aberystwyth, Harlech and Criccieth.

Don't just take our word for it, get planning your trip along the stunning Cambrain Coast Lines and experience its beauty for yourself.

Discover how you can explore Wales by public transport for safe, sustainable, scenic journeys with Wales on Rails here.

Highlights

Coastal views from the train

Explore the impressive Harlech Castle

Feeling adventurous? Grab your walking boots and explore Snowdonia National Park

Find out more

Getting there

Train/bus Car Plane

Plan your journey on the Traveline website.

Route

Shrewsbury and Welsh coast

Cost

£44.30 Off-Peak Return

Opening times

7 days a week | all year

Journey time

3hrs 45

Distance

Total of 137 miles | 221 km

Time from London

2:40 hours (see itinerary)

Plan your trip

Suggested itinerary

Take the train from Cardiff Central to Shrewsbury then catch the train to Aberystwyth alighting at Machynlleth. Trains leave regularly throughout the day (look up times) and the journey takes approximately 3 hour 24 minutes.

Attractions along the Cambrian Coast Line include:

Ynys Hir Nature Reserve

A beautiful location for a relaxing walk overlooking the Dyfi estuary.

Journey time – catch the regular bus service from Machynlleth

Harlech Castle

Be amazed by the site of Harlech’s battlements springing out of a near-vertical cliff-face. Look out for special events held throughout the year.

Journey time – 8 minute walk from Harlech station

Snowdonia National Park

As well as being the largest National Park in Wales, Snowdonia boasts the highest mountain in England and Wales, and the largest natural lake in Wales, as well as a wealth of picturesque villages like Betws y Coed and Beddgelert.

Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railway

The historic Ffestiniog Railway climbs from sea level to over 700ft on its journey through the mountainous Snowdonia National Park and round the UK’s only railway spiral to the 'slate capital' of Blaenau Ffestiniog. Discover how you can visit car free.