FRIDAY 5 SEPTEMBER 2025

FOR LOVERS OF STUNNING SCENERY, THE SINGLE TRACK RAILWAY THAT CLIMBS THROUGH THE MOUNTAINS OF MID-WALES, THEN HUGS THE CAMBRIAN COAST BY WAY
OF TYWYN, BARMOUTH, AND PORTHMADOG TO PWLLHELI IS HARD TO BEAT. 

These rail excursions offer a wide variety of joining points, whilst travelling in comfort on a through train to one of the most spectacular railway lines in Britain.

From Shrewsbury, the train will set-off for Mid-Wales, over easy ground and along the valley of the River Severn, which is close by through Welshpool to Newtown, soon after which we enter the valley of Afon Garno, followed almost to the summit and deep rock cutting at Talerdigg.

And downhill to Machynlleth and to Dovey Junction, where we take the North side of the Dyfi Estuary, running on a seawall towards Aberdyfi, then turn north to Tywyn, onto the cliffs at Friog and down to cross the Morfa Mawddach estuary on the famous half mile viaduct to Barmouth/Abermaw.

On then past the great fortress at Harlech to Minffordd and across the Glaslyn Estuary, with views (weather permitting) to Snowdon/Y Wyddfa, before Porthmadog. A final run, much of it close to the shoreline, leads to Criccieth and beyond to the end of the line at Pwllheli.

WE OFFER THE FOLLOWING DESTINATIONS FOR YOU TO CHOOSE FROM:

Option A – BARMOUTH (1300/1745):

A compact resort and start of a circular trip, featuring a river ferry, a walk over the historic half mile Barmouth Bridge and the Fairbourne Railway.

Option B – PORTHMADOG (1405/1650):

A very pleasant port and town, with remarkable views. It is also home to several well known narrow gauge railways.

Option C – CRICCIETH (1420/1635):

New for 2025!
Criccieth is the gateway to the natural paradise of the Lyn Peninsula. Explore the ancient castle towering over the friendly seaside town, or stretch your legs around the Welsh coastline with sparkling views out to sea.

Option D – PWLLHELI (1435/1620):

Market town of the Llŷn Peninsula with an extensive marina and the journeys end of course!

ON BOARD FEATURES INCLUDE:
– Reserved seats aligned with the carriage windows
– A printed excursion and journey guide for everyone
– A travelling licensed buffet with refreshments, including alcoholic and soft drinks 
– The Premier Dining service includes The Great British Breakfast, Elevenses and four course evening dining
– Cheerful, friendly and helpful Pathfinder Stewards!

CONFIRMED TIMINGS

* Please Note: Premier Dining is not available from Shrewsbury.

Table for Two seats are available at a supplement of £45 per person in First Class and Premier Dining.

Motive power is expected to be a West Coast Railways Class 47/57 locomotive to Shrewsbury and return. Followed by a West Coast Railways Class 37 and Network Rail class 97/3 thereafter.

Passengers will be able to enjoy the comfort of travelling in 1970’s BR MK2 carriages.

Photograph by Chris Beardsmore and Sean Vernell

FRIDAY 12 SEPTEMBER 2025

FOR LOVERS OF STUNNING SCENERY, THE SINGLE TRACK RAILWAY THAT CLIMBS THROUGH THE MOUNTAINS OF MID-WALES, THEN HUGS THE CAMBRIAN COAST BY WAY
OF TYWYN, BARMOUTH, AND PORTHMADOG TO PWLLHELI IS HARD TO BEAT. 

These rail excursions offer a wide variety of joining points, whilst travelling in comfort on a through train to one of the most spectacular railway lines in Britain.

From Shrewsbury, the train will set-off for Mid-Wales, over easy ground and along the valley of the River Severn, which is close by through Welshpool to Newtown, soon after which we enter the valley of Afon Garno, followed almost to the summit and deep rock cutting at Talerdigg.

And downhill to Machynlleth and to Dovey Junction, where we take the North side of the Dyfi Estuary, running on a seawall towards Aberdyfi, then turn north to Tywyn, onto the cliffs at Friog and down to cross the Morfa Mawddach estuary on the famous half mile viaduct to Barmouth/Abermaw.

On then past the great fortress at Harlech to Minffordd and across the Glaslyn Estuary, with views (weather permitting) to Snowdon/Y Wyddfa, before Porthmadog. A final run, much of it close to the shoreline, leads to Criccieth and beyond to the end of the line at Pwllheli.

WE OFFER THE FOLLOWING DESTINATIONS FOR YOU TO CHOOSE FROM:

Option A – BARMOUTH (1300/1745):

A compact resort and start of a circular trip, featuring a river ferry, a walk over the historic half mile Barmouth Bridge and the Fairbourne Railway.

Option B – PORTHMADOG (1400/1645):

A very pleasant port and town, with remarkable views. It is also home to several well known narrow gauge railways.

Option C – CRICCIETH (1420/1630):

New for 2025!
Criccieth is the gateway to the natural paradise of the Lyn Peninsula. Explore the ancient castle towering over the friendly seaside town, or stretch your legs around the Welsh coastline with sparkling views out to sea.

Option D – PWLLHELI (1435/1620):

Market town of the Llŷn Peninsula with an extensive marina and the journeys end of course!

ON BOARD FEATURES INCLUDE:
– Reserved seats aligned with the carriage windows
– A printed excursion and journey guide for everyone
– A travelling licensed buffet with refreshments, including alcoholic and soft drinks 
– The Premier Dining service includes The Great British Breakfast, Elevenses and four course evening dining
– Cheerful, friendly and helpful Pathfinder Stewards!

ESTIMATED TIMINGS

* Please Note: There is a reduced Premier Dining service from Shrewsbury and Welshpool on the outward and the return.

Table for Two seats are available at a supplement of £45 per person in First Class and Premier Dining.

Motive power is expected to be a pair of West Coast Railways Class 37 locomotives to Shrewsbury and return. Followed by a pair of Network Rail Class 97/3 locomotives on the Cambrian route.

Passengers will be able to enjoy the comfort of travelling in 1970’s BR MK2 carriages.

Photograph by Neil Young and Sean Vernell

SATURDAY 20 SEPTEMBER 2025

DON’T MISS THIS INCREDIBLE OPPORTUNITY TO JOURNEY INTO NORTH CORNWALL,

RETRACING THE ROUTE OF A ONCE WELL KNOWN NAMED TRAIN AND EXPLORING

QUAINT AND PICTURESQUE DESTINATIONS

Our journey begins in the Midlands at Dorridge, before heading southwest via Worcester Shrub Hill and on to the vibrant city of Bristol. As we leave Bristol Temple Meads, take in the breathtaking scenery as your journey unfolds through the rolling hills and picturesque countryside of Somerset and Devon. Gaze out at patchwork fields, quaint villages, and gently winding rivers as you travel deeper into the heart of the West Country.

The adventure continues as the train descends towards the historic naval city of Plymouth, where coastal views begin to emerge and the landscape hints at the dramatic beauty to come. Then, in one of the highlights of the route, the train crosses the magnificent Royal Albert Bridge—an engineering masterpiece designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel—spanning the River Tamar and marking your arrival into Cornwall.

The Tamar Bridge. Photo by Jack Boskett

From here, the far South West opens up before you, with rugged coastlines, charming seaside towns, and sweeping ocean vistas that define this unique and captivating corner of Britain. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveller, this is a journey rich in heritage, natural beauty, and unforgettable views.

 

Choose from one of the following off-train options:

Option A – Plymouth* (1200 – 1800)

Plymouth. Photo by Visit Plymouth

Take the opportunity to enjoy some well-deserved free time in Plymouth at your leisure. Whether you choose to stroll along the historic Barbican waterfront, explore the shops and cafes of the city centre, or visit landmarks such as the Mayflower Steps and Plymouth Hoe, there’s plenty to see and do. From maritime history to modern attractions, Plymouth offers something for everyone during your unhurried visit.

 

Option B – Port Isaac (1240 – 1725)*

Supplementary Fare – £25 Adult / £20 Junior

Photo by Shutterstock

Alight at Bodmin Parkway and transfer to road coach for a scenic guided tour to Port Isaac. This picturesque fishing village nestled on the rugged north coast of Cornwall. Steeped in history and charm, its narrow winding lanes, whitewashed cottages, and dramatic sea views have captivated visitors for generations. The village dates back to the Middle Ages and was once a bustling hub for fishing, slate export, and coastal trade.

Today, Port Isaac is perhaps best known as the filming location for the popular TV series Doc Martin, but its timeless character runs far deeper. Wander through the quaint streets, explore independent shops and galleries, or relax at one of the cosy pubs and seafood restaurants serving the freshest local catch. The working harbour remains the heart of the village, where you can often see fishing boats bringing in their daily haul.

Surrounded by the spectacular scenery of the South West Coast Path, Port Isaac is also a haven for walkers, nature lovers, and photographers. Whether you’re watching the sunset from the clifftops or listening to the Fisherman’s Friends sing sea shanties on the Platt, Port Isaac offers a truly authentic Cornish experience. Supplementary Fare Applies.

*Unfortunately, this off- train option is not recommended to those who have limited mobility or require a walking aid/assistance.

Option C – Pinetum Gardens (1300 – 1700)*

Supplementary Fare – £29 Adult / £24 Junior

Pinetum Gardens. Photo supplied by Pinetum Gardens

Alight at Par for coach transfer to Pinetum Gardens a place of tranquillity and garden beauty. A garden for all seasons, the 30-acre site is home to one of the largest plant collections in the county, set within stunning parkland and some of Cornwall’s most spectacular champion trees. Supplementary Fare Applies.

We will then return to Par where you rejoin the train.

*Unfortunately, this off- train option is not recommended to those who have limited mobility or require a walking aid/assistance.

 

Option D – Newquay (1400 – 1620)

Newquay Port. Photo by Visit Newquay

Journey all the way to the vibrant Cornish coastal town of Newquay, where you’ll have ample free time to explore and unwind at your own pace. Renowned for its golden sandy beaches, dramatic cliffs, and laid-back surf culture, Newquay is one of Cornwall’s most iconic seaside destinations.

Whether you’re looking to take a relaxing stroll along the beach, enjoy fresh local seafood, explore charming shops and cafés, or simply soak in the stunning ocean views, Newquay offers the perfect setting for a memorable day out. From the bustling harbour to the scenic coastal paths, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during your visit.

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Traction will be in the form of Class 47’s, reviving the days of Cross Country Summer Saturdays on the 80’s, 90’s and 00’s.

Pathfinder wishes to thank Great Western Railway for use of the name ‘The Atlantic Coast Express’ for which the 1135 departure from London Paddington and 1120 from Newquay bare the name.

Our new caterers Gravy Train Catering will be providing the Silver Service on board this train in Premier Dining and First Class.

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ESTIMATED TIMINGS

Table for Two seats are available at a supplement of £60 per person in First Class and Premier Dining.

*Premier Dining is not available for passengers boarding at Bristol Parkway or Bristol Temple Meads if selecting Option A (Plymouth) as their destination.