The Vale of Rheidol Railway

Book excerpt: “A great book about a small railway with a lot of history that has managed to adapt . . . and become a tourist attraction without losing its charm.” —Unos Cuantos Trenes (A Few Trains) Built to carry minerals from mines in the Rheidol valley, the 2ft gauge Vale of Rheidol Railway found its niche carrying tourists to the tourist attraction at Devil’s Bridge, 12 miles inland from the Cardigan coast resort of Aberystwyth. Taken over by the Cambrian Railways and then the Great Western Railway, it became the last steam railway operated by British Rail. In 1989 it became the first part of the national network to be privatized. Now under the control of a charitable trust it is undergoing a revival that will see it become one of the leading tourist attractions in Mid-Wales. “The book is comprehensively illustrated with photographs spanning the entire history of the line, plus maps, diagrams and tabulated information. An excellent publication, well worth its cover price, and thoroughly recommended.” —Ffestiniog Railway Society Magazine “A complete story of the line to date, an enjoyable read and a good pictorial record of this attractive railway. So a good way to spend some time in lock-down!” —Michael’s Model Railways