New innovations as Welshpool returns
STEAM RETURNED to the Banwy Valley from May 1, as the Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway ran its first public services of 2021. The reopening of the mid-Wales line, subject to the continued easing of COVID-19 restrictions by the Welsh Government, follows five months of closure, during which the Llanfair Line’s popular Christmas Santa Specials and February half-term services fell victim to the lockdown.
The line’s early-season timetable features a variety of one- and twohour return journeys, with 2021 innovations including travelling in First Class style alongside returning favourites from previous seasons such as the popular fish-and-chip specials. Return trips from Llanfair Caereinion to the intermediate station of Castle Caereinion started from May 1, running on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays, plus every day during the half-term holiday between May 31 and June 6. These one-hour round trips proved particularly popular with families when the railway ran them last year.
Trains over the full eight-mile line to Welshpool started on May 4, the two-hour return trips running on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays. Due to COVID-19 restrictions all journeys start from Llanfair Caereinion and visitors are not able to join the train at Welshpool.
Visitors will also now be able to travel in enhanced luxury – the Llanfair Line’s former Sierra Leone Railway First Class carriage with its white leather armchairs will be rostered on every passenger service. Tickets for this carriage, subject to a supplement, include a free copy of the WLLR’s newly -released Traveller’s Guide, a glass-bottle soft drink and snacks. There will also be a new breakfast service, departing from Llanfair at 1000 or 1030, with the ticket price including a breakfast roll and hot drink. Tickets for this service will be limited and must be pre-booked.