Beddgelert Woodcraft

After six years of work the Welsh Highland Railway has opened the latest 16 mile (25 km) section of track from Caernarfon to Beddgelert, which will eventually continue through to Porthmadog.

The platform was crowded with excited faces all eager to ride the first public trip from Beddgelert to Rhyd Ddu and back, laid on for local residents. Despite a small delay all had a great time enjoying a familiar journey from a different perspective.

It was good to see so many familiar faces turn out, all chattering and catching up with each other. The train ride became quite a social event.

This short journey takes in views of the forest, lakes and Snowdon. A spectacular opportunity for photographers! There must have been hundreds of photos taken already. I wonder if any will be entered in our photo competition?

As recently as 70 years ago trains used to run along this route regularly, reintroducing the railway will add to the charm of this already beautiful area.

Many thanks to Welsh Highland Heritage Group and Welsh Highland Heritage Railway for the use of this archive picture.