Gwili Railway – Coronavirus Update:

On Govt advice all services are temporarily suspended until further notice.

All scheduled services, as from today, are cancelled. Specific special events such as the Dining Trains and the Steam Driver Experience Days are postponed to later dates. Passengers booked on these services will be offered new dates in due course.

GWILI RAILWAY EMERGENCY FUND
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To help support the Gwili Steam Railway at this difficult time, the Gwili Railway Preservation Society is opening an Emergency Fund. Your donations will help ensure the survival of the Volunteer run Gwili Railway, which was formed 42 years ago to run steam trains in the beautiful Gwili Valley, near Carmarthen.

Sadly we have lost income from Dining trains, Cream teas and Easter and whilst we may achieve Government assistance, it probably won’t cover all costs. We face a significant loss of income over an uncertain period of time which through no fault of our own could threaten the future of the Railway.

Please visit our website to find out how you can help: www.gwili-railway.co.uk. Click on Enthusiasts/Preservation Society and go to the dedicated DONATE button.

If you have been a member in the past and your membership has lapsed, then please consider re-joining the Society. Membership application details are on the page. If your membership is up for renewal, then please renew or if not paying by Standing Order please consider this option. Please don’t wait for a reminder to be sent.
Whilst the closure to the public is temporary, there is no guarantee when the Railway will reopen although volunteers can still come to site.

The Railway has secured the hire of Pannier Tank L92 for a set number of steaming’s for the 2020 season and an exciting programme of events has been planned for when we are back up and running.

Any surplus funds raised will be allocated to our Loco Fund for the eventual return to steam of Olwen as 1144 and Austerity locomotive Haulwen. Your help will ensure that the Gwili Railway is there for generations to come.
Please support us.

Thank you!

MURDER MYSTERY DINING TRAIN –
NEW DATE 4TH APRIL 2020

Who Dunnit? On our special Murder Mystery Evening, join the super-sleuths in bringing arch criminals to justice, whilst enjoying a four-course meal with bar facilities on the train.

Tickets: Adult £50.00, Child £20.00. Trains depart 7:30pm please arrive by 7.00pm.

L92 STEAM Running Days

April – Easter Holidays: 9/10/11/12/13, 16th, 23rd, 25th, 26th, 30th

May: Teddy Bears’ Picnic 2nd & 3rd, 7th, VE Day 8th, London Transport Weekend 9th & 10th, 14th, 16th, 17th, 21st, Circus Skills 23rd & 24th, 25th, 28th, 31st,  

June:  3rd, 4th, 10th, Superhero Day 13th, 14th, Gala 20th & 21st, 24th, 25th 

July: 1st, 2nd, 4th, 5th, 8th, 9th, 15th, 16th, 19th Car Show, 21st, 22nd, 23rd, 26th,  29th, 30th

Standard Ticket Prices: Adult £12.00, Senior, £11.00,
Child £6.00, Family £31.50, Dog £2.00

The Gwili Railway can accept no liability for failure to operate advertised services or attractions. A diesel locomotive may have to be substituted for steam locomotive at short notice for operational reasons. Information correct at time of going to print. Photo Scott Artus.

Join the conversation online on Facebook @TheGwiliSteamRailway 

Bronwydd Arms Station, Carmarthen. SA33 6HT
Telephone: 01267 238213 Email: [email protected]

www.gwili-railway.co.uk

Many passengers and fans in West Wales have requested some information about this years visiting locomotive. Here goes;

L92 – 5786 was built by the Great Western Railway in 1930 and, unlike many of its siblings, didn’t get scrapped by British Railways, but was sold on to The London Transport Passenger Board. 5786 is one of over 800 57xx Pannier Tank locomotives built. They were used mainly for heavy shunting, short distance goods and branch line passenger duties.Built at Swindon, 5786 entered service in January 1930 at Aberdare shed. 5786 remained in South Wales throughout its life with the GWR and BR(W).

We will be closed on the 27th June for the annual AGM. This is so our staff, volunteers and shareholders can all get together for the annual meeting. We apologise in advance for this closure of our diesel day services.

03 Diesel Day – 22nd February

Class 03 diesel shunters D2178 and D2069 will both be in action at the Gwili Steam Railway this coming Saturday (22nd February 2020), as part of an impromptu running day to mark 55 years since the introduction of the D2000s (class 03 shunters) to West Wales.

The sight of two (or more) class 03 shunters working hard together quickly became synonymous with West Wales, though their association with the Burry Port and Gwendraeth Railway; we will be recreating that sight today.

The day also marks the final appearance of D2069 at Bronwydd Arms, before it moves back to it’s home at the Vale of Berkeley Railway.

The class 03 shunters will work both singly and in pairs throughout the day – a copy of the working timetable can be found below. There will also be opportunities to photograph the locos lined up together.

Class 03 diesel shunters D2178 and D2069 will both be in action at the Gwili Steam Railway this coming Saturday (22nd February 2020), as part of an impromptu running day to mark 55 years since the introduction of the D2000s (class 03 shunters) to West Wales.

The sight of two (or more) class 03 shunters working hard together quickly became synonymous with West Wales, though their association with the Burry Port and Gwendraeth Railway; we will be recreating that sight today.

The day also marks the final appearance of D2069 at Bronwydd Arms, before it moves back to it’s home at the Vale of Berkeley Railway.

The class 03 shunters will work both singly and in pairs throughout the day. There will also be opportunities to photograph the locos lined up together.

Saturday’s Diesel Gala will be a Class 03 Diesel pulling the carriages. The day will feature:

Photo line-up (1): Between 12:10 and 12:45, D2178 and D2069 will be posed coupled together in Bronwydd Arms loop (next to the carpark fence). This is to allow the two locomotives to be photographed together, as there will be little opportunity to do so when the locomotives are paired to double-head (as they will often be off the platform end etc, when coupled to the train).

Photo line-up (2): At approximately 14:30, D2069 and D2178 will be lined up alongside each other on the MPD apron for a photographic lineup. To photograph this, please meet at the gates outside the museum (at the North end of the carpark) at 14:30.

An extended photo-stop will be made at Llwyfan Cerrig in the ‘up’ direction between 15:35 and 16:00, to allow enthusiasts to visit and photograph the rolling stock in the yard.

On arrival of the final ‘up’ train at Bronwydd Arms at 16:10, both D2069 and D2178 will be posed briefly together outside the signalbox for photographs.

*Up to 2 children ONLY travel FREE per paying adult, based on our family ticket of 2 Adults and 2 Children.

Tickets: Adult £12.00, Senior £11.00, extra Child £6.00 each, Dog £2.00. Trains depart 11:00/13:00/15:00. Book online to secure your seats.

www.gwili-railway.co.uk
Bronwydd Arms Station, Carmarthen. SA33 6HT
Tel: 01267 238213
email – [email protected]

The Gwili Railway can accept no liability for failure to operate advertised services or attractions. Information correct at time of going to print.

Kids go FREE offer explained:

During the February Half Term School Holiday we will be open on selected days
18-22 February. Saturday’s Diesel Gala will be a Class 03 Diesel pulling the carriages. Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday will be Steam Services – Welsh Guardsman. 

*Up to 2 children ONLY travel FREE per paying adult, based on our family ticket of 2 Adults and 2 Children.  Tickets: Adult £12.00, Senior £11.00, extra Child £6.00 each, Dog £2.00.
Trains depart 11:00/13:00/15:00. Book online to secure your seats.

February Half Term offer: Add the discount code at checkout to qualify
for 2 children maximum traveling FREE, this can only be used twice. 3M8GCDY3

Enjoy a nostalgic steam train journey the beautiful Carmarthenshire Countryside
during February Half Term. You can add 2 children FREE and the system will deduct the
coupon value at checkout (Max value is £12.00). 

Any extra children will be charged at normal ticket price. Offer ends 23 February.

Due to storm Dennis we have moved/postponed the 15th February Dining Train until the 4th April. All passengers who have booked and still wish to travel will have the tickets honoured and moved to the new date.

What better way to spent Halloween than seeing if you can work out ‘Who dunnit?’. But beware – Things that go bump in the night might not be just the engine coupling up to the coaches!

Murder Mystery – 4th April (new date) and 24th October. Tickets available Adults £50.00, children £20.00 per head (includes Train Fare).

Seating is arranged in tables of 4, however if you only require 2 places then please contact us to arrange this booking.

Peidiwch â phwyso allan drwy’r ffenest neu agor y drws pan fydd y trên yn symud.
Danger! Do not lean out of the window when the train is moving.

HANNER TYMOR – PLANT YN TEITHIO AM DDIM!

Yn ystod Gwyliau Ysgol Hanner Tymor ym mis Chwefror byddwn ar agor ar ddiwrnodau penodol, 15-22 Chwefror. Injan Diesel fydd yn tynnu’r cerbydau ar y dyddiau Sadwrn. Bydd Trên Stêm (Welsh Guardsman) yn gweithio ar ddydd Sul, Mawrth, Mercher a Iau. Caniateir hyd at 2 o blant i deithio AM DDIM gyda phob oedolyn sy’n talu, yn seiliedig ar ein tocyn teulu.

*HALF TERM – KIDS GO FREE!

During the February Half Term School Holiday we will be open on selected days 15-22 February.

Gwili Railway Steam and diesel traction running days for 2020:
Our website calendar and booking page titled ‘What’s On’ is the best way to see clearly which days we are running steam or diesel services. Gals and event may feature both.

Steam services:
February: 15 evening sold out, 16, 18, 19, 20
March: 1, 21, 22
April: 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 16, 23, 25, 26
May: 2, 3, 8, 9, 10, 14, 16, 17, 21, 23, 24, 25, 28, 31
June: 3, 4, 5 private charter, 10, 11, 13, 14, 17, 18, 20, 21, 24, 25, 26 private charter
July: 1, 2, 4, 5, 8, 9, 15, 16, 19, 21, 22, 23, 26, 28, 29, 30
August: 2, 4, 5, 6, 13, 15, 16, 19, 20, 23, 25, 26, 27, 30, 31
September: 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 17, 20, 22m 23, 24, 27, 29, 30
October: 1, 3, 4, 7, 8, 13, 14, 15, 20, 21, 22, 24 evening, 28, 29, 30, 31
December 5, 6, 12, 13, 10, 20, 23, 24

Gwili Railway Steam & Diesel Gala…

On 20th/21st June 2020, we will be holding our annual steam and diesel gala event. All available locomotives will be in action – if it moves, it will run this weekend! We will also be running demonstration goods trains, as well as (subject to availability) double-heading and banking. Brakevan rides within station limits are also planned.

There will also be a couple of special moments throughout the weekend – keep an eye on both the website and the Facebook page for more details.

STOP PRESS – L92 arrival date:

Proposed date – 26th February, time to be announced. Please be aware if you wish to visit and see it arrive please contact the office. All cars must park off site due to the lorry and operational reasons.
Watch this space for further updates.

Special Steam Services announcement for L92:

Be the first to travel on L92!

The Gwili Railway Commercial Team are pleased to announce that due to popular demand they are releasing 24 foot passenger seats on the 1st running day of L92.

This will be on the St. David’s Day Sunday lunch. Please note the train will depart 12:30 sharp due to the dining schedule. The bar will also be available to foot passengers. Food is not available unless you book a dining ticket.

Abergwili Dan Do update…
Day five of the groundworks contract for the Dan Do Shed Appeal. Another sunny day in West Wales!

Work has now moved on to bring the ground surface up to the same level as the track in the platform. Surplus spoil on site is loaded by the 50 ton bucket into the dumper trucks.

Abergwili Junction and Bronwydd Arms Engine Shed

The opening of the Abergwili Junction Extension on 1^stJuly 2017 was a seminal moment in the history of the Gwili Railway. The project had been the culmination of 17 year’s hard work but amid the sense of achievement there were essentially two thoughts, namely how can we capitalise on the goodwill and momentum; and what’s next?

Whenever an extension is completed there is always a period of consolidation, as resources (financial and labour) are often diverted towards the extension which can in “normal times” be utilised elsewhere. With the expansion from a two mile to four mile line the transition would require improvements in other areas if the railway was to continue the “upward trend”.       

High on the list for the railway was some much-needed covered accommodation for locomotives and rolling stock.  In particular despite a good record of operating steam traction for over 30 years, a lack of covered accommodation was seriously hampering work on further restoration. The last full restoration of one of the home fleet (0-6-0ST “Haulwen”) was completed by a contractor in 2007.  The last “full” restoration of a locomotive on site was even further back than that; “Welsh Guardsman” in 1993.

Various schemes for a proper engine shed had been proposed for many years, although the priority was to pay for overhauls themselves as opposed to investing in the facilities required. Nevertheless the success of the fundraising for the extension allowed for a small surplus in the budget which could be used as a springboard for further projects. Again after the success of the extension in terms of grants, and after making a case for the shed, Carmarthen County Council kindly offered some financial support as part of their Targeted Finance Fund. With some further match funding we were able to award a contract for the construction of one-road shed being 75ft by 25ft, with room for 2 0-6-0ST’s or equivalent.

Various arguments were put forward as to the location of the shed; operationally our Bronwydd Arms station was now in the middle of the line, and there was more land available at Abergwili Junction. The deciding factor was that we enjoyed “permitted development” rights for planning within the large and established footprint of Bronwydd Arms station, and equally any locomotive shed at Abergwili would be adjacent to Glangwili hospital.  Therefore the shed was erected at Bronwydd Arms.

Although the grant was awarded in 2016, it took until Easter 2017 for the shed to be erected. Again on a smaller line, available staff time was taken up on operations or keeping the existing locomotive fleet in operation. When the contractor was available, the staff were not, and vice versa. There is a delicate balance between operations (which bring in the funds) and development (which install essential improvements and keep stakeholders engaged).

Once the shed was erected it was onto stage 2 next, the installation of a locomotive pit. We already had a serviceable pit but a second one inside the shed was much desired for the “restoration” type work, whereas the present pit was used for “oiling up” the operational engine.  Quotations were again sought from local builders, and the most suitable one chosen. Again the demands of operations and the builder’s workload precluded an immediate start and it was not until January 2019 that the hole was dug. The project progressed through the spring and completion of the pit itself was achieved in August (again much on/off time dependent on the availability of the contractor and our staff.

The next stage was to connect up the existing locomotive siding to the shed and get under cover. For the 40 feet or so over the pit, we utilised flat bottom rail as this was easier to attach to the pit, with a resin and clip method. Ironically our running line still uses bullhead rail at present. The first locomotive in the shed was the chassis of 0-6-0ST “Moorbarrow” undergoing contract overhaul.

The difference in obtaining undercover access was immediate but the final stage of the shed project (for now) was the laying of the concrete floor. This was finally achieved in January of this year with a 7:00am start to pour the concrete, and at the end of a very mucky but satisfying day one complete engine shed was laid before us.

The total cost of the shed, including the building, pit and floor was achieved in money terms for £40,000 although the real cost when taking into account staff and volunteer time is higher. The shed took just over 3 years from erection of the first pillar to laying of the final concrete. Again for a smaller line a “do it in stages” approach is necessary, and it does require some faith and focus to meet the end goal.

Thankfully as is frequently the case, one opportunity leads to others. We launched the TVR 28 project in October, and the ability to work on the locomotive under cover is a key factor in the restoration.  Equally we have a contract restoration for 0-6-0ST “Moorbarrow to complete by the spring and following that we have our own “Haulwen” dismantled and ready to be overhauled. Both Moorbarrow and Haulwen are in good condition mechanically so a quick turnaround is hoped for in each case. There is no doubt that the shed has increased interest in volunteering on the locos. Teams from across the three departments that were previously fragmented have now come together now have a focal point for their efforts.

Our next efforts are focused on the carriage shed at Abergwili Juntion. This is planned to be a two-road, 240ft long shed for which planning permission has been obtained. The shed will house the railway’s MK1 fleet in addition to some of the 4 wheeled carriages at the railway, including GWR 216 of 1888 and Taff Vale Railway 220 of 1891.

Covered accommodation would improve the prospects of regular service for these two centenarians with both carriages having received much attention in the last 5 years without becoming operational.

A small grant with match fudding has been obtained to commence the groundworks with the provision of a large area of land at the same height as the present station at Abergwili; these works will commence imminently with a cost of 25k.

The layout at the south end of the station will be remodelled, in the meantime fundraising continues for the shed structure. We have a kind offer of “pound for pound” donations for the shed itself, therefore we would need to raise another 50k at least to make the shed a reality.

Donations would be most welcome and can be made via the railway at Bronwydd Arms Station.

Quotation from GRPS Chairman John Gurmin:

“We are pleased to have provided funding for the new MPD facility. Recently funding was made available for the floor concreting and now the Committee are working on funding for the installation of lighting and power. All this has been made possible due to the hard work of our volunteers behind the scenes running the 300 club and selling raffle tickets.”

Quotation from Marketing Manager and Photographer – Scott Artus

Engine shed project picture gallery.After a very wet and windy day the Volunteers and Staff members have successfully completed the concrete laying in the MPD engine shed at Bronwydd. Once set the shed will be in full use once again for engine maintenance and restoration projects. The Board would like to thank all involved for their fantastic efforts today.This was a Gwili Railway, GRPS and Volunteer cross platform teamwork project.

Gwili Railway Steam Driver Experience Days –  the perfect gift for steam engine enthusiasts!

New dates, changes to advertised dates and updates…

Booking system and ‘What’s On’ Calendar update:

The 2020 ‘What’s On’ calendar booking system is now open. For queries or phone bookings please call the ticket office on 01267 238213 on Tuesday/Thursday/Saturdays during January 10-4pm.

See events and date lists below:

PLEASE NOTE THE 4TH APRIL TASTER DRIVER EXPERIENCE DAY IS CANCELLED AND NOW A DIESEL DAY, SEE BELOW:

Standard Timetable:

For running days always check the ‘What’s On’ page where our helpful calendar tells you what’s on that month. The Gwili Railway standard timetable departs Bronwydd Arms at: 11.00/13.00/15.00. 

*Standard timetable available on the following days in 2020:

February: 15, 16, 18, 19, 20, 22

March (see dining trains below): 1**, 21, 22**

April: 4, 5, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 15, 16, 18, 19, 21, 22, 23, 25***, 26**, 29, 30

May: 2, 3, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 13, 14, 16***, 17**, 20, 21, 23, 24, 25, 27, 28, 30, 31 

June 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 9, 10, 11, 13***, 14**, 16, 17, 18, 20, 21, 23, 24, 25, 27, 28, 30

July: 1, 2, 4, 5**, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 14, 15, 16, 18, 19, 21, 22, 23, 25, 26, 28, 29, 30

August: 1-31. We will run a 7 day week during August. 

September: 1, 2, 3, 5***, 6**, 8, 9, 10, 12, 13, 15, 16, 17, 19, 20, 29, 30

October: 1, 3***, 4**, 7, 8, 10, 11, 14, 15, 17, 18, 21, 22, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31 

November: 1

*Before you travel please check the website, Google or Facebook.

**Sunday Dining services, please note these services have an extended running times and are not suitable for foot passengers. 

***Steam Driver Experience Days are a closed event and not available for foot passengers. Taster Experience Days are light engine only.

Full Day Steam Driver Experience***, dates change for July previously advertised as June 13:
7.00am start April 25, July 4, October 3

Taster Steam Driver Experience***, extra dates added:
10.00am start March 21, May 16, September 5

Kids go FREE offer, Max 2 children per paying adult;
February: 15 day only, 16, 18, 19, 20, 22 

Easter Bunny Special: April 10, 11, 12, 13

Teddy Bears’ Picnic: May 2, 3

Circus Skills Days: May 23, 24, July 21/22, Aug 16

Art/Puppet Craft Days: July 28, August 2

VE Day Special, Cream Tea service and Evacuee Experience:
Hourly intensive service from 11.00, Cream teas 13.00 & 15.00 May 8

Steam & Diesel Gala: June 20, 21

Superhero Day – date changed:  June 13 (previously advertised in July)

Classic Car Show:  July 19

Halloween Ghost Express (including evening trains):
13.00/15.00/17.00/19.00 October 30, 31

Santa’s Magical Steam Trains: December 5, 6, 12, 13, 19, 20, 23, 24 

Dining Train Timetables/Dates

Cream Teas: 13.00/15.00 Every Thursday from April 9-Oct 29

Welsh Elevenses: 11.00 Every Thursday from April 9-Oct 29,

Gwili Fryer: 18.30 August 1, 8, 15, 22

Sunday Lunch**: 12.00 – March 1, 22, April 26, May 17, June 14, July 5, September 6, October 4 

Murder Mystery Dining Train**: 19.00 – February 15, October 24

What a momentous day for the Railway and the Gwili Vintage Carriage Group Charity.

The Coop community fund raised over £4,415.75 from customers who used their Co-operative Store Members Card. They selected the GVCG after Scott and Matt completed the fundraising questionnaire.

Since applying for the Community Fund over twelve months ago we received an invite this month to receive the cheque and money raised. We then went to the store on Saturday 23rd November to say thank you to the customers and explain how it helped the railway.

New teams, new volunteers, new trains what more can we ask? Simple – keep visiting us, donate and keep supporting us, we promise the volunteers and staff will keep up the great work that they do for the little gem that is ours and your heritage railway!

Thank you to Sadie and the team. The money will go towards the ‘Dan Do Shed Appeal’. Groundwork’s start In the new year. Looks like 2020 will be a special year for Gwili.

Full steam ahead for 2020!

Pictured with Matt Bowen Chairman is Sadie Gascoigne – Team Leader @ Co-op Food St Clears

Ghost Express Colouring Competition Finalist

The Gwili Railway are proud to announce the winner of our 2019 Ghost Express competition is Emrys Jones. We have contacted his excited parents today and he will soon receive his prize of a family ticket to see Santa this year.
Well done Emrys.

You all still have time to enter our design a Christmas card competition which runs until the 22nd November 2019.

Ghost Express Train – Halloween outfit competition:

The winner of the overall 1st prize for best outfit goes to Mrs S Phillips and family. They will receive a family ticket to the Santa’s Magical Steam Trains 2019. Other winners received a standard travel family ticket plus runner up prizes of toys.

Santa’s Magical Steam Trains
27 days to go…
The elves are busy wrapping the toys. The volunteers are prepping the trains, clearing the yard and tidying up.

The office staff are going through the orders (Tue-Thur 10:00-16:00).

Ghost Express a huge success…

Ghost Express a huge success…

 

The 2nd annual Ghost Express Halloween trains were a huge success for the Gwili Steam Railway. After last years huge crowd pleaser the team of staff and volunteers organised this years event to cover three days over the half term period. With the help of the local papers and Carmarthen Council tourist teams the railway advertised and delivered postcards to local schools.

The family friendly event was a popular and simple crowd pleaser. At Llwyfan Cerrig Station magician ‘Loopy Lews’ provided entertainment with volunteers providing treats etc to a background of a themed station display. Part of the big draw was the redesigned and new miniature railway provided by the team who carried over 300 passengers between services.

 

Over 1000 passengers travelled and enjoyed food on the trains. Prizes were given out for best costumes and the 1st prize winner of a family ticket for Santa’s Magical Steam Trains was Mrs Phillips and her family from Swansea.

 

The Directors and GRPS would like to thank all the volunteers, staff and Carmarthen Council tourist team who made this event a huge success. We now look forward to our popular Santa’s Magical Steam Trains in December. Next years Ghost Express will be back bigger and better than before and it will help that the event is on a Friday and Saturday.

We would also like to thank Carmarthenshire County Council with sponsorship of this new event and help towards adverts in the local press.

Scott Artus Marketing Manager Gwili Railway

Autumn Steam Update…

• Saturday 26th October – Services running as advertised, Vintage Tea Rooms open, trains depart 11:00/13:00/15:00 seats available. Murder Mystery Dining Service 19:00 fully booked.
• Sunday 27th October – closed for operational reasons, we apologise for any inconvenience.
• Monday 28th – Closed
• Tuesday 29th Ghost Express – Open services run 13:09/15:00/17:00,
  Vintage Tea Rooms Open
• Wednesday 30th Ghost Express – Open services run 13:09/15:00/17:00,
  Vintage Tea Rooms Open
• Halloween 31st October Ghost Express – 11:00/13:00/15:00/17:00/19:00,
  catering available on the Dining Car and in the Vintage Tea Room

The Gwili Steam Railway are holding their 3rd annual Christmas Card Competition. 

• Cards must feature the theme of Steam Trains, Santa, Snowmen, Elves
• 1st prize  – Santa’s Magical Steam Train Family Ticket*
• Please post entries FAO of Scott Artus to Gwili Railway at the address below
• Entries must be drawn no bigger than A4 in colour, include the child’s first name, school, form and home address on the back*
• Deadline for entries 22nd November 2019

GDPR – How we use your data: 

We will only use your data to contact you for information/postage purposes.  This may be by phone or email for operational purposes. 

We may contact you by phone or letter to update your details and our database. We do not use your data for marketing and we do not sell or share your information with 3rd parties.

*2 + Adult and 2 + Children Max.

AUTUMN STEAM DAYS

TBC 16th October – Steam 11:00/13:00/15:00

17th October – Steam Welsh Elevenses 11:00, Cream Tea 13:00/15:00

19th October – Steam 11:00/13:00/15:00

20th October – Steam 11:00/13:00/15:00

23rd October – Steam 11:00/13:00/15:00

24th October – Steam Welsh Elevenses 11:00, Cream Tea 13:00/15:00

*26th October – Steam 11:00/13:00/15:00

*27th October – Steam 11:00/13:00/15:00

*2nd November – Steam 11:00/13:00/15:00

2nd November – Evening Curry Steam Train £20.00: 19.00 departure. 

*3rd November – Steam 11:00/13:00/15:00

Ghost Express – Halloween Train
October 29th, 30th and 31st, day and evening trains. Trick or Treat, fancy dress prizes.
Trains Depart Oct 29/30 13.00/15.00, 17.00, Oct 31 11.00/13.00/15.00, 17.00, 19.00.
Event Prices Tickets: Adult £14, Senior £12, Child £8, Dog £2, Family £36

*Special Event ticket prices may incur an extra charge and will be advertised as such.
Join the conversation online on Facebook  @TheGwiliSteamRailway

www.gwili-railway.co.uk

Bronwydd Arms Station, Carmarthen. SA33 6HT
Telephone: 01267 238213 Email: [email protected]

*A diesel locomotive may be substituted for steam locomotive at short notice for operational reasons. Information correct at time of going to print. The Gwili Railway can accept no liability for failure to operate advertised services or attractions. 

Ghost Express Halloween Trains update…

We are pleased to announce that due to its popularity and requests from families and parents who can’t make the 17:00 we have decided to run the planned 19:00 train on the 31st October as our last Halloween train service of the day.

The Gwili Railway relaunches its Miniature Railway

It was decided to hold the event on the first day of our new ‘Pop Up’ event Circus Skills Day. Cllr. Irfon Jones, Mayor of Carmarthen and Chairman of Bronwydd Community Council kindly made a donation to further develop the Miniature Railway. He was accompanied by his wife Jean and were joined by Fred and Celia Bond to formally reopen the Railway along with John Gurmin (Chairman of the GRPS). Fred Bond originally brought the Railway to Llwyfan Cerrig from the Ebbw Vale Garden Festival in 1992 and he was instrumental in setting it up. Local children from the Bronwydd Tiny Tots Nursery were also the first to travel on the train with one child being given the special No.1 ticket as a memento.

Refreshments were provided and representatives of the Company Board and GRPS Committee attended. It was also a special day for those who are now qualified to operate the Railway and our thanks must go to the many volunteers who have been instrumental in getting it back to its former glory.

All services cancelled on the 12 August.

Apologies for everyone who wishes to visit the the railway on Monday but due to mechanical failure all services are cancelled.

Medieval Weekend

• Two days of Steam, children’s activities and fun for all the family
• Bring a picnic or pick one up from our Vintage Tea Room
• Travel to Llwyfan Cerrig and meet the Archer, King and Queen of Llwyfan and the Circus Skills Trainers
• Meet Merlin and do some magic
• Come along dressed up in Medieval costume with prizes for best outfit
• Pull the sword from the stone to be crowned King or Queen of Wales
• Throw sponges at the gaoled stocks prisoners
• Learn Circus Skills, juggling, circus tricks and parachute games
• Archery skills
• To enjoy the games please travel on an earlier train e.g. 11.00 to stay for the return train at 14.00 or travel at 13.00 and return on the 16.00

Visitors will be able to travel on the steam locomotives throughout the day. Special Event fares apply.

Steam Trains run 11.00/13.00/15.00

Circus Skills Day

Come along and enjoy a fun packed day of circus skills, juggling and magic at the Gwili Railway.

• Three days of Steam, children’s activities and fun for all the family
• Bring a picnic or pick one up from our Vintage Tea Room
• Travel to Llwyfan Cerrig and meet the Circus Skills Trainers and the Gwili Bear
• Learn Circus Skills, juggling, circus tricks and parachute games
• Archery skills on Sunday 18th
• To enjoy the games please travel on an earlier train e.g. 11.00 to stay for the return train at 14.00 or travel at 13.00 and return on the 16.00

Visitors will be able to travel on the steam locomotives throughout the day. Special Event fares apply.

Steam Trains run 11.00/13.00/15.00

Changes to departure times for our popular Santa Trains

For 2019 we are trialling a new timetable for our popular Santa’s Magical Steam Trains. To allow staff and volunteers have a mid day break and give the footplate crew a rest we have removed the 12.20 train. This will also benefit the visitors to the grotto and prevent large queues developing at a busy time of the time.

2019 New Departure Times:
10.00, 10.35, 11.10, 11.45, 12.55, 13.30, 14.05, 14.40, 15.15

Travel by steam train to see Santa Claus every December weekend plus extra dates.

• Quality gift for every child
• Bi-lingual Santa
• Mince pie for adults
• Goodie Bag/Drink and Treat for children (1-13yrs)
• Live entertainment
• Please arrive 30 minutes before your departure time to help with parking and queues at Bronwydd Station.

The Gwili Railway can accept no liability for failure to operate advertised services or attractions. A diesel locomotive may have to be substituted for steam locomotive at short notice for operational reasons. Information correct at time of going to print.

Extra Steam Date added 6th September 2019

The Gwili Steam Railway in conjunction with Inside Track Tours have added an extra Steam Train date to their busy summer calendar. Due to a special Inside Track Tour to Carmarthen we have agreed to put on an extra day of steam so that the tour can enjoy the thrill of travelling by steam on the Gwili Railway.

Summer Gala Timetable Saturday 22 and Sunday 23 June 2019

Please note the evening curry train will now depart at 6.00pm, tickets cost £5.00. Proof of event ticket purchase or signed in volunteer status is required.

Click to download the pdf files below…

PUBLIC TIMETABLE – Saturday

PUBLIC TIMETABLE – Sunday

New format for Gwili Railway Driver Experience Day a huge success for volunteers and participants…

15th June 2019

As a photographer for Gwili (Scott Artus Marketing Manager) it was a pleasure to capture the drama, teamwork and smiles. It proves we are a must see destination for visitors from across the UK and Europe.

To see the sheer joy of seeing participants and volunteers enjoy our 1st full driver experience day for 2019 on Saturday 15th June at The Gwili Steam Railway.

The first team to start the day driving the ‘Welsh Guardsman’ were Udo Lang (Udo travelled all the way to Carmarthen from Munich) and John Richardson (a fellow Yorkshireman who’s lived in Wales since the 70s).

We had a fantastic day, lots of new friendships were made and the sheer professionalism of our volunteers and staff made this a truly special day.

Driver Experience Day set 2

What a dynamic and cohesive family team the Bowen family were. Father and Son Dennis and Ian were a credit to the railway all their action timed well. Seeing their teamwork proved that families who work and play together are a happy family. What a perfect Fathers day weekend.

Gwili Steam Railway – Driver Experience set 3

Last but not least were the great duo Morris Blake and Phil Battison who had a whale of a time enjoying being signalman, guards then finally driver and fireman. The perfect end to the day for a dynamic team. You can see by their smiles how much we enjoyed the day.

Well done all and we look forward to the next day.

Story and photography Scott Artus

Summer Gala 22-23 June 2019

Join us for the 2019 Gwili Railway annual summer Gala, we’re shifting our attention back 41 years to Graig Merthyr Colliery who were still running steam in 1978) –  which has a special connection with our own RSH No.71516 “Welsh Guardsman”. 

Our 2019 gala falls exactly on the 41st anniversary of the end of steam at Graig Merthyr colliery. “Welsh Guardsman” carries the boiler from Bagnall No.2758 – which famously worked the final train out of Graig Merthyr.

41 years on (to the day), we will recreate the spirit of the final day at Graig Merthyr – with an austerity carrying a wreath on the smokebox, as well as both the English & Welsh flags (as it did back in 1978).

Look out for:

• Intensive timetable in operation on both days
• Trains crossing at both Llwyfan Cerrig and Bronwydd Arms
• Demonstration goods train, featuring a series of photographic run pasts
• Displays and stalls at Bronwydd Arms
• D2178 on brake-van rides at Llwyfan Cerrig
• Live music at Bronwydd Arms (Saturday only)
• Road steam on display at Bronwydd Arms
• Afternoon ‘non-stop’ from Abergwili Junction to Danycoed on both days
• Sentinel steam wagon “Typhoo” on display (in steam) at Bronwydd Arms
• “Echoes of Graig Merthyr”: a photographic opportunity with “Welsh Guardsman” Saturday evening at Bronwydd Arms (approx.5pm onwards)
• “A Midsummer Night’s Steam” – celebrating the 75th birthday of “Welsh Guardsman” 6.00pm,
  Curry £5.00 plus bar available on production of a valid ticket

Summer Gala Timetable Saturday 22 and Sunday 23 June 2019

Click to download the pdf files below…

PUBLIC TIMETABLE – Saturday

PUBLIC TIMETABLE – Sunday

Find out more details on Facebook: @TheGwiliSteamRailway

Event Prices:  Adult £14.00, Child £8.00, Senior £12.00, Family £35.00, Dog £2.00

www.gwili-railway.co.uk

Bronwydd Arms Station, Carmarthen. SA33 6HT  Tel: 01267 238213 email – [email protected]

The Gwili Railway can accept no liability for failure to operate advertised services or
attractions. A Diesel locomotive may have to be substituted for steam locomotive at short notice for operational reasons. Information correct at time of going to print.

Fancy a beautiful cream tea served on our steam locomotive hauled dining train?

Every Thursday in June then every Thursday and Friday in July and August. Our dining team who are made up of volunteers and staff. We serve local welsh food including Little Grandma’s Kitchen Jam and Welsh Brew Tea.

GRPS Locomotive Fund
Help the Gwili Railway restore their fleet of locomotives…

The Gwili Railway and the Preservation Society work hard to support our volunteers and preserve our locomotive heritage for future generations.

We have 3 locomotives in need of your support so we can restore them to their former glory. With your help we need to generate funds for their service and repair. This will help the railway with much needed funding and to be able to run their own fleet of locomotives.

• Every donation you make will be ring fenced and used to repair and restore our fleet of locomotives.
• We are presently in the early stages of putting Olwen and Haulwen back into steam but need extra funds for parts and boiler tests.
• We will create a roll of honour page and certificates for major donations with special offers and incentives for larger donations such as:
• Donations £2.00-£19.00 receive a certificate.
• Donations of £20.00-£49.00 will receive a certificate and a photographic print of one of the locomotives, Haulwen or Olwen.
• Donations of £50.00-£99.00 will receive a certificate, print and a commemorative mug.
• Donations £100 and over will receive a certificate, print, commemorative mug and a footplate ride on one of our steam locomotives.
• This can be redeemed on a chosen steam running day or you can wait for the restored locomotive to be back in steam.
• To donate please make payments by cheque or bank transfer to the GRPS. Include contact details.
  Santander bank:
  Sort code: 09-01-54
  Account No: 74534006
  Bronwydd Arms Station, Carmarthen. SA33 6HT
  Tel: 01267 238213
  email – [email protected]

Our Steam Locomotives…
Our steam fleet comprises of small ex-industrial locomotives. The fleet is unique in that it encapsulates a century of industrial steam in South Wales, as many of our locomotives have operated in the region during their varied careers.

RSH 0-4-OST No.7058 (1942) Olwen
Originally worked at Earley Power Station near Reading, on its internal railway system. The locomotive is owned by the Gwili Railway Preservation Society.

No.3879 Haulwen
Haulwen is a Hunslet Austerity locomotive, built in 1942 as No.5272. Constructed at the Vulcan Foundry in 1945, she initially worked as the Longmoor Military Railway (named Insein), before being transferred to the Woolmer
Instructional Railway. Sold by the Army to Hunslet in 1959, she was sent to Hunslet Ltd. in 1961 to be rebuilt and renumbered as No.3879. It was then sold to the National Coal Board to work initially at Cambrian Colliery and then at Mountain Ash. The engine was placed on loan at the Caerphilly Railway Society in 1981 and was later bought by them. The name Haulwen means “White Sunlight”, “Bright Sunlight” or “Bright Star” depending on the translation from Welsh and was the name of the Mountain Ash Colliery Manager’s Daughter.

Hunslet No.3829
Was built in Leeds in 1955 and worked at NCB Lady Windsor. It was originally purchased for restoration at the Swansea Vale Railway where some work was carried out in the Upper Bank Works.

Photographs by John Jones
RSH 0-4-OST No.7058 (1942) Olwen livery as it will be after restoration. Black livery.

Find out more details on Facebook in future updates:
@TheGwiliSteamRailway

Dear Customers,

Please note we have noticed some customers have experienced errors when making bookings via mobile phone. If you try to make a booking in a weak signal area there may be drop off error on the payment section.

We advise customers that you don’t try to put another booking through our system until you have checked the following:

• When making a booking if there is a drop off in signal and you get an error, this is temporary and your order may still go through our payment system.
• Please check your card provider if payment has or has not been taken within 24 hours.
• Check your email (also check if it has gone into spam) for your booking confirmation.
• Ring our booking office if you get an error and they will check your order. Tel; 01267 238213.
• If no payment has been taken or no email confirmation has arrived you can try again, but please check.
• Any order that does go through to our payment system is subject to a Stripe Admin fee which is included in the ticket price. Refund requests due to order error or payment problems will have the admin fee deducted from your refund. See terms at bottom of our website and pasted in this message…

Taster Drivers Experience Day – 18th May 2019…

Wow! What a fantastic day at the Gwili Steam Railway. A day packed full of fun, family celebrations and a new team spirit that was simply infectious and delightful for the visitors and volunteers at the railway.

10 taster day drivers/firemen-women enjoyed an action packed day travelling up and down the track. Driving down and back up then firing on their second run they all experienced the thrill of the footplate.

Gwili Gala 22-23 June – Events will include…

• An intensive timetable on both days.
• All available traction in use,
• Road steam on display at Bronwydd Arms (full size and miniature)
• Demonstration goods train in use.
• Evening trains with on-board bar on Saturday night (curry and rice served on board: £5 with valid travel ticket).

RAISE MONEY FOR THE GWILI RAILWAY
FROM YOUR ARMCHAIR!

Do you order Christmas presents on-line?
Do you book holidays, hotels or insurance on-line?

Are you thinking of a new idea and place to go on a Saturday night?

The Gwili Railway can cater for your needs. Every Saturday during July 27th and August – 3rd, 10th and the 17th we run a Fish and Chip Supper and Ale train which can cater for small parties up to 30. There is a choice of fish and chips, pies, sausage and you will enjoy a scenic ride on our Heritage railcar diesel unit. We have a small bar and can cater for your drink requirements on request. Contact the office and book through our website on the link provided.

Services this week and next…

Please check our website and Facebook for any changes to the advertised services. 

Wednesday service – please check before travel Tuesday afternoon or Wednesday Morning.

Thursday – 11.00 Welsh Elevenses and passenger services.

13.00 and 15.00 Strawberry Cream Tea and passenger services.

Saturday 25th May – Diesel Railcar

Sunday 25th until the 31st May – Steam and Cream Service on Thursday the 30th.

Saturday 1st June – Diesel Railcar.

Sunday 2nd June – Steam and Pistons 4×4 and Classic Bike Show.

www.gwili-railway.co.uk

4×4 & Classic Bike Show – STEAM & PISTONS – 2nd June  2019

Event Prices: Adult £14.00, Child £8.00,  Senior £12.00, Family £35.00, Dog £2.00
Trains Depart Bronwydd Arms: 11.00/13.00/15.00. Book by phone or online

Join us for the Gwili Railway annual 4×4 and Classic Bike Show. For this years event we have merged the two days to bring a varied choice of exhibitors to the railway. Prizes will be awarded in both categories for Best in Show, Custom, Classic and Specialist Vehicles and Bikes. Exhibitors enter FREE and travel on the trains at a discounted fare of £6.00. Entry forms can be downloaded or completed on the day.

Download your exhibitor entry form by clicking this link: 0951 4×4 Bike Show Entry Form

Bronwydd Arms Station, Carmarthen. SA33 6HT  Tel: 01267 238213 email – [email protected]

The Gwili Railway can accept no liability for failure to operate advertised services or attractions. A Diesel locomotive may have to be substituted for steam locomotive at short notice for operational reasons. Information correct at time of going to print.

CLASSIC STEAM & TRANSPORT DAY 2019 

Event Prices: Adult £14.00, Child £8.00,
Senior £12.00, Family £35.00, Dog £2.00

Enjoy an Intensive Hourly Service
Steam: 11.00/13.00/15.00
Diesel: 10.00/12.00/14.00/16.00

Join us for the Gwili Railway annual Classic Transport Day Show. Enjoy a day visiting the show field packed with classic vehicles and travelling on our steam and diesel trains. Prizes will be awarded for Best in Show, Classic, Custom,  Specialist Vehicles and Motorcycles. Exhibitors enter FREE and enjoy discounted  travel for £6.00. Entry forms can be downloaded or completed on the day.

Bronwydd Arms Station, Carmarthen. SA33 6HT  Tel: 01267 238213 email – [email protected]

Download your exhibitor entry form by clicking this link: 0967 CTS Registration Form

The Gwili Railway can accept no liability for failure to operate advertised services or attractions. A Diesel locomotive may have to be substituted for steam locomotive at short notice for operational reasons. Information correct at time of going to print.

SUNDAY DINING TRAINS

New departure times 12.00 noon

Due to a error on the booking system we have noticed the departure times had reverted to our 2018 dates. The correct departure time for all Sunday Dining Trains is 12.00 noon, please arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to allow for seating and bar orders.

Gwili newsflash…

Watch out for our latest visiting locomotive Jennifer, she will be used for selected dates at the Gwili Railway for the 2019 season. The hauliers will set off today and arrive early tomorrow morning. Watch out for her coming through Carmarthen. But get up early!

Jennifer will be used as a second locomotive whilst the Motor Power Department do the maintenance and servicing on Moorbarrow. The Welsh Guardsman (pictured with Jennifer) will be used for the majority of our streaming’s as normal.

TASTER STEAM FOOTPLATE ADVENTURE

We are pleased to announce due to the popularity and amount of vouchers booked from last year that we have changed two of our full driver experience days to the simpler taster day’s. This event is for those enthusiasts who want a much simpler experience.

Now’s your chance! During your time on the footplate you’ll be in control of a heritage steam locomotive which is over 60 years old. Feel the power and smell the burning coal whilst you trundle up the line. During the Taster Experience you’ll get turns at driving and firing the locomotive alongside experienced crew.

During the taster day you will be able to visit the Signal Box to see how the trains are controlled and ask the signalman any questions you may have. There are 3 time slots available for the taster day when booking your ticket.

*Every Taster Steam Footplate Adventure booked includes train travel for 2 guests who can ride in the train while you are on the footplate.

*Subject to availability of a coach and guard, otherwise guests and family will watch from the platform and signal box.

The Railway will be closed to the general public but light refreshments; Tea, coffee, water and biscuits will be arranged for customers and their guests.

This is an ideal introduction to driving a steam locomotive. For those that want more time on the footplate and the chance to learn more about operating a country branch line, take a look at our full day driver experience.

Pre-booking recommended. Please select one of the times below and arrive at the Railway one hour before departure time to allow time for the Welcome and Safety Briefing.

Trains depart Bronwydd Arms Station: 11.00/13.00/15.00 on the 18th May and the 5th October.

Price: £95 per person (with up to 2 family or friends)

The Taster Steam Footplate Adventure makes an ideal birthday present or treat for a special celebration. Open to over 18s. If you or the person coming on the Taster Steam Footplate Adventure have any physical restrictions, please let us know at least 7 days in advance.

Hurry book online today, there only 18 dining places left for this spectacular event!

Murder Mystery Evening Dining Trains – ‘Who Dunnit?’ 

On our special Murder Mystery Evenings, join the super-sleuths and help solve the murder mystery on the Gwili Railway Murder Express. Relax and soak up the atmosphere while enjoying a four-course meal and drinks from the bar. But beware, things that go bump in the night
might not be just the engine coupling up to the coaches!

MURDER MYSTERY DINING TRAIN DATES:
February 16th (NEW) & October 26th

Adult £50.00, Child £20.00, Empty Seat £10.00
(Ticket price includes train fare)
Online Pre-booking advised

Seating is arranged in tables of four. However if you prefer a table for two please contact us and pay for empty seats at time of booking. 

Please advise us in advance of food allergies and intolerances. Vegetarian options available.

Your food choices will be emailed with your booking. Please arrive at least 30 minutes early for a 7.30 departure.

Bronwydd Arms Station, Carmarthen. SA33 6HT 

Tel: 01267 238213 email – [email protected]

The Gwili Railway can accept no liability for failure to operate advertised services or attractions.

A Diesel locomotive may have to be substituted for steam locomotive at short notice for operational reasons. Information correct at time of going to print.

Welsh Elevenses on the Gwili Railway Dining Trains

Welsh Elevenses Dining Train Dates: Every Thursday during: April, May, June, July,
August, September and October. *Every Thursday and Friday during July and August

Celebrate the new year by booking your Sunday Lunch today.

Sunday Lunch Steam Dining Trains

Sunday Lunch Dining Dates: March 3rd, 31st, April 28th, May 19th, June 16th, July 7th, September 15th and October 6th

Adult £35.00, Child £20.00, Empty Seat £15.00*
(All prices include standard train fare, the empty seat charge applies when a party of two wish to dine on a  table alone,
all tables are based on a table booking for 4 diners.)

Please advise us in advance of food allergies and intolerances.Vegetarian option available.  Your food choices will be emailed with your booking. Please arrive 30 minutes early for a 12.00 departure.

Enjoy a four course traditional Sunday lunch aboard our steam hauled vintage dining set including dining car and bar coach. The steam train takes a leisurely trip up and down the line whilst you relax and enjoy table service from our friendly Dining Train Crew. A truly delightful way to catch up with family and friends.

www.gwili-railway.co.uk/whats-0n

Bronwydd Arms Station, Carmarthen. SA33 6HT  Tel: 01267 238213 email – [email protected]

The Gwili Railway can accept no liability for failure to operate advertised services or attractions. A Diesel locomotive may have to be substituted for steam locomotive at short notice for operational reasons. Information correct at time of going to print.

Strawberry Cream Tea Steam Dining Trains

STRAWBERRY CREAM TEA DINING TRAIN DATES:

Every Thursday during: April, May, June, July, August, September and October. Every Thursday and Friday during July and August

Adult £18.00, Seniors £17.00, Child £11.00 (All prices include standard train fare). Online Pre-booking advised, departure times 13.00/15.00, Welsh Elevenses 11.00.

Please advise us in advance of food allergies and intolerances.

Treat yourself to a Strawberry Cream Tea aboard our vintage steam train at the Gwili Steam Railway. Our cream teas on the train will remind you of those genteel days when the pace of life was more relaxed. Go on, treat yourself! Your cream tea includes two large scones, Welsh butter, locally sourced preserves and clotted cream. 

www.gwili-railway.co.uk/whats-0n

Bronwydd Arms Station, Carmarthen. SA33 6HT 

Tel: 01267 238213

email – [email protected]

The Gwili Railway can accept no liability for failure to operate advertised services or attractions. A Diesel locomotive may have to be substituted for steam locomotive at short notice for operational reasons. Information correct at time of going to print.

The Ghostbusting team will be on the train at 3.00pm, 6.30pm and 8.00pm. He will be using his Ghostbuster kit to hunt the spooky train ghosts for your entertainment. Scott will be taking photos to share on Facebook so book your trains now.

https://gwili-railway.co.uk/product-category/ghost-express/

LNE van preserved for future generations at Gwili Railway

Recently outshopped by the Carriage and Wagon team, London and North Eastern 12Ton ventilated van of 1940. Well done to all the team and C&W volunteers for their dedication and hard work.

TAFF VALE NUMBER 28

Taff Vale locomotive number 28 is the only surviving member of the 01 Class. It is also the only surviving standard gauge locomotive designed and built in Wales. After service with the Taff Vale and Great Western Railways, it moved into military service and then onto the coalfields of County Durham before being retired. The locomotive now forms part of the national collection of historically important locomotives, owned by the National Railway Museum in York.  

After restoration in Caerphilly in the 1980s and having work carried out at the Dean Forest and Llangollen Railways, number 28 is now based on the Gwili Railway. Work has now started on its conservation with a view to full restoration. 

It is intended to return the locomotive to its original Taff Vale condition, but significant work is required on the boiler, tanks and bunker as well as replacing missing components. The team currently meets once a month at the Gwili Railway. Any help is greatly appreciated, if you would like to become involved in this interesting project please contact us on the number below.

Any financial donations can be made to the Gwili Vintage Carriage Group and will help us get number 28 in steam once more.

We can be contacted through our Facebook page @gvcguk, email: [email protected] or by telephone: 07961 940651

Contact us at C/O Gwili Railway: Bronwydd Arms Station, Carmarthen. SA33 6HT

We need your help by filling out this questionnaire to help us unlock grants available for the development, shed and museums. Your information will only be used to prove to our benefactors that the shed and museum facility is a worthwhile attraction to our visitors, supporters, volunteers and staff.

Download your survey here…

Dan Do Museum questionnaire

WIN A FAMILY TICKET TO OUR POPULAR SANTA’S MAGICAL STEAM TRAINS*

Fill out the questionnaire and return to the guard or our shop assistants. One of our directors will pick a winner on
3rd November 2018. Winners will be announced on our website and facebook.

*The ticket allows 2 adults and 2 children to travel on their chosen day to see Santa.

The Gwili Railway and Taff Vale Vintage Carriage Group need your help and support…

Can you spare your time, expertise or even a donation to help us restore this important engine for the benefit of the railway?

Taff Vale Railway No.28

• 2018 Best in show – Darraq vintage car, Johnny Thomas
• Best in show Classic Car – Daimler Dart, Anthony Summers
• Best in show Commercial Vehicle – Pembroke Coach Works Bedford Van, Haydn Bateman
• Best in show Classic Bike – Douglas, I Smith
• Best in show 4×4 – Land Rover Police Shawland MK1 armoured patrol car SB300, Clive Elliott
• Best in show Custom – Ford Mexico Custom, Cliff Mann
• Best in show Tractor – Massey Ferguson, Graham Baker

Thank you to all who attended with their classic cars, motorcycles, vans and 4x4s. A sunny and fun filled day of steam trains and vintage vehicles of all shapes and sizes. Our next show will be our 4×4 SUV show held on the 27th August – you can enter your vehicle by contacting the office on 01267 238213.

Do you enjoy taking photographs when you visit the railway?

If you do email your stories about your experience and we will feature them on our news section. Fun, informative and positive memories help us engage with the public.

Do you have old photographs and memories of the Gwili Railway?

We would love to show our visitors and railway fans stories and photographs from the past. If you have any stories or photographs email to us and we will feature them here on our news section.

Email [email protected]

Please attach a his resolution photograph as a jpg and your name and contact details. If you have print that you wish to post please include a self stamped address envelope so we can return the photograph. Alternatively tag us into your post on Facebook.

We may also feature your thoughts and stories in our bi-annual messenger magazine that goes out to our members, volunteers, GRPS shareholders and public.

Leaving a Legacy to the Gwili Railway

The main objective of the Gwili Railway is to rebuild as much as possible of the railway between the two towns of Carmarthen and Llanpumsaint. The railway is always grateful for and benefits greatly from gifts and legacies received, however small. In recent years these gifts have enabled a range of projects to completed.

Making a will is the most secure way of planning for the future and leaving a gift towards a cause you believe in as well as providing a tangible memorial to your support. Although the writing of a will does need to be carefully considered, it is neither difficult nor time-consuming. However, as your will once properly signed and witnessed will be an important legal document, we strongly recommend you ask a solicitor or other regulated professional to prepare it, to ensure that it is valid and gives effect to your wishes.

It is the Gwili Railways firm policy to honour and respect specific bequests.

Any enquiry will be dealt with in the strictest confidence. Please be reassured that legacies and bequests are not spent on administration or the day-to-day operation of the Trust or Railway.

General Purpose gifts and legacies are always welcome.

Gifts of Specific Items:

Should you bequeath an item or a collection, please include the additional following wording: “I give to the Gwili Railway [describe item or collection in full] for the general purpose of the railway and I authorise my executors to pay the costs of transport of the item to Gwili Railway Bronwydd Arms Station and any related costs.”

Gifts for Specific Purposes: If gifts of specific sums or residue are to be for a specific purpose, the following wording should be added:”…and I express the wish that if possible this gift shall be used by the railway.”

AMENDING YOUR WILL BY CODICIL

If you have already made a Will but wish to add a new bequest to the Gwili Railway you can amend your current Will without making a new one by making a Codicil.

Example wording for a Codicil:

In addition to any legacies given by my said Will I give to the Gwili Railway ltd of Bronwydd Arms Station, Bronwydd, Carmarthen SA33 6HT, the sum of £…………… (or specific item(s) to be given) to be used for its general charitable purposes and I declare the receipt of their Treasurer or other authorised officer shall be full and sufficient discharge. In all other respects I confirm my said Will and any other codicils thereto.

In witness whereof I have set my hand this…….day of……….20….

presence of us who at his/her request in his/her presence and in the presence of each other have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses.

Signature of witness:

Name:

Address:

I………… of ………….. declare this to be a first/second (++) codicil to my Will dated………………

++ insert number as appropriate

COMMEMORATION

The Gwili Railway will treat all bequests with respect and appreciation. A memorial book will be kept for future remembrance unless you would prefer to remain anonymous.

We will be happy to consider providing a suitably worded plaque to mark a commemorative gift or bequest. Such plaques can be displayed in a suitable location.

LIFETIME GIFTS

Some people like to make charitable gifts during their lifetime so that they can see the effect of their donations. The Gwili Railway always has a number of specific projects in progress at any one time. We welcome gifts for specific projects and our Chairman is always happy to discuss particular requirements with donors and their advisers.

FURTHER INFORMATION

If you would like to discuss this in confidence with someone from the Gwili Railway, please contact our Chairman Robert Voyle by email [email protected]

Ways you can help us today

The Gwili Railway has a number of ways in which contributions can be made. The intention and preferences of the contribution will be respected as far as reasonably possible.

Share donations – A regular payment aimed at the vital planning and enabling work to extend the railway.

Please donate to the Railway (£10 per share donation), make cheques payable to the Gwili Railway.
Or simply make a donation or a regular bankers order:
Please pay – The National Westminster Bank, 35 Green Street, Neath SA11 1DB Sort Code 54-10-19
for the credit of the Gwili Railway Company Ltd; Account Number No. 11512628.

Reserved for the construction and maintenance of our very splendid Heritage Carriages.

Help us unlock the funding pledges by donating to the project.

Just Giving: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/gwili-shedappeal

JOIN OR DONATE TO THE GRPS:

Volunteering – Helping out at Gwili Railway by promoting the railway, helping to raise awareness and encouraging others to join us as members. Donations and GRPS membership can be done by;

Adult; 1 Year £18, 5 Years £90

Joint: 1 Year £24, 5 Years £120

Family: 1 Year £26, 5 Years £130

Student: £7.50

Please make cheques payable to “GRPS”  and send your details and your payment to: Membership Secretary, Gwili Railway Preservation Society, Bronwydd Arms Station, Carmarthen, SA33 6HT.

By bank transfer to: Sort Code: 090154  A/C No: 74534006

Help our ticket office and guards by following these simple guidelines before you travel…

When you book online please ensure you bring a printed receipt of purchase when you arrive at the ticket office. This helps the volunteers and staff who run the ticket office.

Not all volunteers have access to the online booking system for GDPR and security reasons. We always ask to check your ticket or proof of purchase. Therefore to speed up the ticket checking process please bring a print out of your online booking when you travel.

Service changes at the railway and how we contact you…

We sometimes do have to close the railway for various reasons. It may be operational or because of a service change or private booking. We will always notify customers, volunteers and staff no later than 1.00pm the day before. Updates may appear as a scrolling banner, Facebook post or by shutting down the online booking for that day. We are a volunteer supported railway and sometimes we cannot always ensure we have enough rostered staff to drive the trains, guard the carriages or operate the signal box. All of these are safety critical posts. Therefore to avoid disappointment please follow the guidelines below:

Before you travel to the railway please visit the website or Facebook page to check for service changes. Please call 01267 238213 no later than 4.00pm the day before you travel.

This privacy policy sets out how Gwili Railway uses and protects any information that you might send us when you use this website. We believe that your privacy and your data are important and we’re committed to ensuring that your privacy is protected. If you provide us with information by which you can be identified when using this website, then we promise that it will only be used as we describe in this privacy statement. The policy sets out:

• What information we collect from you
• How we keep it
• Why we collect it
• How we use it
• Your rights

What information do we collect from you?

We may collect and process the following data about you:

• Information that you provide by filling in forms on our site http://www.gwili-railway.co.uk. This includes information you might provide at the time of registering to use certain elements of our site, subscribing to services, posting material or requesting further services. We may also ask you for information when you enter a competition or promotion managed by Gwili Railway, or when you report a problem with our site;
• If you contact us, we may keep a record of that correspondence;
• We may also ask you to complete surveys that we use for research purposes, although you do not have to respond to them;
• You can access and browse our website site without disclosing personal information. We collect standard Internet log information and details of visitor behaviour patterns to help us identify things such as the number of visitors to the various parts of our site. We collect this information in a way which does not identify anyone.
• The content of emails that you have sent or received.

How we keep it

We really are committed to ensuring that your information is secure. In order to prevent unauthorised access or disclosure, we have put in place appropriate physical, electronic and managerial procedures to secure and safeguard information we collect online.

We do not store credit card details and we do not share customer details with any 3rd parties.

Unfortunately, the transmission of information via the Internet is not completely secure. Although we will do our best to protect your personal data, we cannot guarantee the security of your data transmitted to our site; any transmission is at your own risk. Once we have received your information, we will use strict procedures and security features to try to prevent unauthorised access.

Why we collect it

We use information held about you in the following ways:

• To provide you with information, products or services that you request from us or which we feel may interest you (where you have consented to be contacted for such purposes
• To carry out our obligations associated with any contract entered into between you and us to ensure that content from our site is presented in the most effective manner for you and for your computer
• To improve our website

If you do not want us to use your data in these ways, please contact us.

Disclosure of your information

We only share your data with other parties where strictly necessary. We may disclose your information to third parties:

• Where necessary to fulfil our obligations associated with any contract entered into you between you and us
• To enable us to provide maintenance, engineering or troubleshooting services to you in connection with goods or services supplied to you
• If we are under a duty to disclose or share your personal data in order to comply with any legal obligation, or in order to enforce or apply our terms of use or terms and conditions of supply and other agreements
• To protect the rights, property, or safety of Gwili Railway, our customers, or others. This includes exchanging information with other companies and organisations for the purposes of fraud protection and credit risk reduction

We will never sell, trade, or rent your personal information with other companies.

Your rights

You have the right to ask us not to process your personal data for marketing purposes. If you do not want us to use your data in this way, please contact us.

The Data Protection Act gives you the right to access information held about you. You can find out what information we hold about you by making a Subject Access Request under the Act. If we hold personal information about you we will give you a description of it, tell you why we are holding it and let you have a copy of it.

If any of the personal information that we hold about you is incorrect or needs updating, or if you want us to delete any personal information, please contact us. We may request that you provide further information and identification to enable us to comply with this request.

Third party links on our website

Our site may contain links to and from the websites of our partner, customers and other third parties. If you follow a link to any of these websites, please be aware that these websites will have their own privacy policies and that we do not accept any responsibility or liability for these policies.

Please check these policies before you submit any personal data to these websites.

Acceptance of our policy

By using this website, you signify your acceptance of our privacy policy. If you do not agree to this policy, please do not use this website. Your continued use of the site following the posting of changes to this policy will be deemed your acceptance of those changes.

If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy, the practices of this site, or your dealings with this site, please contact us.

How we use cookies

Our website may use “cookies” to enhance the user experience. Web browsers places cookies on their hard drive for record-keeping purposes and to sometimes track information about users. You can choose to set your web browser to refuse cookies, or to alert you when cookies are being sent. If you do this, please note that some parts of our site may not work properly.

2018 is the year for classic vehicle shows at the Gwili Steam Railway. Following on from the success of our annual Classic Vehicle Day (held every second Sunday in July) 15th July we will also be holding a Classic Bike Show on the 2nd and 3rd of June and a 4×4 SUV Classic Vehicle Show on the August Bank Holiday Monday.

Exhibitors can travel at a discounted rate of £6.00, entry into the competitions will be free with gifts entrants and prizes for best in show. Visitors will pay the standard fare which includes our view and travel entry. The tickets cover travel for all day so you can see the show and travel ups and down the line.

Join us for our yearly exhibitions of Steam locomotives and traction engines, Classic Cars, Motorcycles, Buses, 4x4s, Commercial Vehicles, Display Engines and Agricultural vehicles.

View & Travel Prices*:
See the what’s on section of the website and Facebook for details, pricing and how to enter. Exhibitors can contact the office for entry forms.

Facebook: @TheGwiliSteamRailway

Standard TRAVEL Fares:
Adult £12.00, Senior £11.00, Family £31.50, Child £6.00 (3-15 yr), Dogs £2.00

*Exhibitors only pay: £6.00
Trains Depart: 11.00/13.00/15.00

Application form

Vehicle Show Application Form

Classic Bike Show

Bike show – click here

Car Show Page

Classic Car show – click here

4×4 Show Page

4×4 SUV show – click here

Pitch fees for trade stands are available for a fee of £25.00, contact the office for details.

Gwili Railway launches first calendar New for all railway photography fans…

We are pleased to announce our new 2019 calendar which will be available for sale in our shop. The calendar features photographs taken by our photographer Scott Artus. The seasonal scenes of steam and diesel locomotive photographs were taken during our 2016-2017 season. This is the perfect railway enthusiast gift.

A collectible gift – with photographs you can trim and frame

If you catch Scott on the railway he’ll even sign your limited edition copy.The first edition print run is limited to 250. The retail price will be £3.99 in-store.

Carriage Shed Appeal

With the opening of the new Abergwili Junction extension, the Gwili Railway is now embarking on the next exciting phase of development. Like many heritage lines, the Gwili Railway makes use of the standard British Railways Mark 1 carriages.  A storage facility is badly needed to protect them from the worst of the Welsh weather.  The new shed will hold four Mark 1 carriages on each road.

We have several historic items of stock which relate to Wales. The public display of such vehicles and artefacts is seen as essential in informing and educating our visitors. The carriage shed will allow us to obtain further historic Welsh carriages for display and create a educational classroom facility. Potential funding partners are fully supportive of a building with an emphasis on display, education and storage. The full cost of the proposed building will be £300,000 and we have informal pledges of over half this amount provided we can raise the remainder.

We are therefore looking to raise a further £100,000 (we have raised 50k so far) to complete the funding package and to allow construction to begin. Just Giving is the easiest way for you to donate online, cheques can be sent to the railway by post.

Help us unlock the funding pledges by donating to the project – click here to donate direct 

Just Giving: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/gwili-shedappeal

For a more information or a appeal brochure you can email the railway [email protected] or phone 01267 238213. www.gwili-railway.co.uk