By early 2024 centuries of large scale coal (Welsh = glo) mining in Wales may have finished. This will bring the end of rail traffic on one of the longest non passenger branch lines in Britain, that to Cwmbargoed. Given the high (1200ft+) and remote location, with no habitation, further use for the line seems unlikely. This train, therefore, may well be the last chance for passengers to visit the upper parts of this wild valley, which has no roads, and little even in the way of tracks or footpaths.

With joining points in the Midlands and on Severnside, there are plenty of opportunities to board, and there are many bits of ‘red line’ track in the itinerary. A 90 minute break is available at Bridgend as an alternative to going to the Margam/Port Talbot area for servicing and reversal.

THE ROUTE OFFERED (subject to final confirmation): As pick-ups to BRISTOL PARKWAY (PU), then Down Pilning Loop, SEVERN TUNNEL JUNCTION (PU), Down Relief, East Usk Yard (rev), Uskmouth Branch (rev), Newport, Alexandra Dock Jn Up/Down Goods Loop, Rumney River Bridge Jn, Pengam Sidings, Cardiff Central, Down Miskin Loop, Pontyclun, BRIDGEND (optional SD). Margam/Port Talbot area (rev), Pontyclun, Leckwith Loop, Ninian Park, Cardiff Central, Heath High Level, Ystrad Mynach South Jn, Cwmbargoed Branch (19m 35ch, point projected, rev), Down Rhymney Loop, Caerphilly, Cardiff Central, Ninian Park (rev), Cardiff Central, Pengam Sidings, NEWPORT (SD), SEVERN TUNNEL JUNCTION (SD), Up Tunnel Loop, Severn Tunnel, BRISTOL PARKWAY (SD) and as outward, back to Burton-on-Trent.

The route above offered by Network Rail and DB Cargo, differs in some respect (several loops omitted) to that originally requested, due to capacity and timetabling constraints. We apologise for any changes made. 

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ON BOARD FEATURES INCLUDE:
– Reserved seats aligned with the carriage windows
– A printed excursion and journey guide for everyone
– A Gricers Grill menu will be offered on this train
– A travelling licensed buffet with refreshments, including alcoholic and soft drinks
– Real Ale and Cider bar plus sales stand also features
– Cheerful, friendly and helpful Pathfinder Stewards!

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