Scenic Rails of Mid Wales

Mid Wales is bordered by the two stunning national parks of the Brecon Beacons and Snowdonia and is home to rich, green landscapes, the unspoilt Ceredigion coastline, the stunning Cambrian mountains and glorious castles, gardens and railways. 

Day 1 We travel to our hotel.

Day 2 This morning we head north to the impressive Powis Castle which began life as a medieval fortress.  We spend time at leisure exploring the magnificent collections contained in the castle and its world-famous garden, with spectacular yew hedges and lavish herbaceous borders, as well as a superb collection of treasures from India displayed in the Clive Museum.  After time for lunch, we set our sights on the Elan Valley Visitor Centre.  Set in a fantastic location against a spectacular backdrop of a Victorian stone dam, Elan is a nature and wildlife haven within the Cambrian Mountains, and unspoilt area of rare beauty.  We can explore at leisure, whilst a team of Rangers are on hand to tell us more and how to get the most out of our afternoon. 

Day 3 Today we travel west to the popular seaside resort of Aberystwyth where we board the Vale of Rheidol Railway for a nostalgic journey through some of Wales’ most spectacular scenery.  During our 3 hour round trip our narrow gauge steam locomotive climbs 700ft during the 12 mile journey from Aberystwyth to Devil’s Bridge, home of the famous waterfalls.  We spend the rest of the afternoon at leisure exploring Aberystwyth’s many attractions, including the harbour, pier, beach, castle and the longest electric cliff railway in Britain.

Day 4 This morning we head south for a 6 mile return vintage steam train journey from Pant to Torpantau on the Brecon Mountain Railway.  We journey along the Taf Fechan Reservoir before climbing to Torpantau high in the Brecon Brecons.  Our 90 minute trip includes a 35 minute stop at Pontsticill station where there is a Lakeside café and Steam Museum.  We have free time for lunch back at Pant Station’s Tearoom and time to visit the locomotive workshop before heading to the famous and award-winning Penderyn Distillery where we enjoy a guided tour and tasting.  Our tour and tasting will teach us about the founding of Penderyn and what makes the different whiskies taste as they do so we’ll begin to understand why its reputation as a quality whisky producer is growing. 

Day 5 Homeward bound.

The Metropole Hotel ****

This elegant and historic 4 star Metropole Hotel is located in the centre of the Victorian town of Llandridod Wells and was originally the largest hotel in Wales.  An impressive building both inside and out, this hotel is a favourite.  All 100 traditionally styled bedrooms are well sized and equipped with a TV hairdryer and tea/coffee facilities.  Leisure facilities include an indoor swimming pool, spa bath, steam room and gym.  There is a lift. 

PRICE INCLUDES:-

* 4 Nights 4 Star Half Board Accommodation

* Excursions and all entrances listed above

* £60 Single Room Supplement