Visited :
May '01 Visited :
May '01
Their Website :- Snowdon Mountain Railway
The countries only rack and pinion railway to the top of Snowdon. Clearly set up for Tourists wishing to get to the top of the mountain, they seem proud of their long heritage and still try to run mainly steam engines.
A sizable complex sits on the main road in Llanberis consisting of a booking office, cafe with outside seating, large shop, and a short two platform station. Train viewing may take place from the tiny museum in the shop, or outside on the gate. Both are quite small and it's hard to see if you're short like me.
One day Daddy went for a walk up a bit of the mountain along side the line and took some good video pictures.
While the guide book talks about stations up the line, these are little more than crude concrete blocks with maybe a water tower.
The station at the top is impressive considering the battering it must take during storms, and that there is no mains water or electricity.
 |
|
Ninian at Llanberis |
Slow, steep, jerky and cramped, but still very impressive. Great new views appear around every corner (weather permitting).
If you try and go on a good day, buy your ticket early and be prepared to wait a long time for your slot. On the day we went, it was still cloudy at the top and all the seats for the day were sold before lunchtime.
A large collection of special engines, mainly steam, some diesel.
Purpose built, narrow coaches. Expect a squash.
 |
|
The mountain climbers view |
Situated at Llanberis. You weren't allowed to look around.
Tiny but well laid out museum with photo displays in the shop at Llanberis and excellent view of the platforms.
Large, selling the full array of tourist knick-knacks, but not much for the railway enthusiast.
Cafe at the very top and bottom.
 |
|
Moel Siabod at the top of the mountain in the clouds |
Considering they're not on mains water and sewage, the toilets at the top were very good.
Quite good.
You get to the top of the tallest mountain in England and Wales !
Back to the full list of David's Steam Railway Reviews and Listings
This page was last updated on December 23, 2002