We are sorry to announce we are closed tomorrow…
Due to availability of operational crews we are closed on Wednesday 16th October. We are happy to announce we are open as normal for our Welsh Elevenses and Strawberry Cream Tea service on Thursday 17th October.
Please check our google, facebook and website for updates and opening times over the weekend.
The Gwili Steam Railway are holding their 3rd annual Christmas Card Competition.
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.
With responsibility for our Steam Locomotives.
You should have proven experience:
This is a full time contract working 5 days out of 7
as required. Further details may be obtained by
email and applications including a CV should be sent to;
Matt Bowen – Chairman & Company Secretary,
email: [email protected]
by 10:00am
Friday 15th November 2019. Salary by negotiation.
www.gwili-railway.co.uk
Bronwydd Arms Station, Carmarthen. SA33 6HT
Tel: 01267 238213
email – [email protected]
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.
25th August 2019 – Bank Holiday Steam Service, trains depart 11:00/13:00/15:00
26th August 2019 – Bank Holiday Monday, all train services cancelled
27/28 August – All services cancelled due to scheduled steam locomotive washout
29th & 30th August – We will be running our normal 11:00 Welsh Elevenses and 13:00/15:00 Cream Tea Dining Train and passenger services.
31st August – Medieval Day and Volunteer BBQ, we will be running a 11:00/13:00/15:00, there will also be a special volunteers BBQ steam train at 17:15, returning at 8:30. Passengers who are not GRPS or volunteers are welcome to stay over at an extra cost of £5.00 please notify the office before travelling.
1st September – Medieval Day, trains depart at 11:00/13:00/15:00
‘What’s On’ August 19th-26th:
Our Office is open Tue-Fri from 10:00am-4:00pm
www.gwili-railway.co.uk
August running days: Due to mechanical and service schedules we have
revised our running days to the following dates:
Tue 13, Wed 14, Thur 15 and Sun 18 – Steam Locomotive Train Service
Tue 20, Wed 21, Thur 22, Sun 25 & Mon 26 – Steam Locomotive Train Service
Circus Skills Day: 18th, 20th & 21st August
Miniature Railway Relaunch: 18th August, 1.30pm, travel 1.00pm
Medieval Fun Weekend: August 31st & September 1st
Event Prices Tickets: Adult £14, Senior £12, Child £8, Dog £2, Family £36
Strawberry Cream Teas: Every Thursday, Sept – Oct 13.00/15.00
Evening Curry Train £20.00: 2nd November, 19.00 departure
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.
On the Friday the 9th and Saturday the 10th August we will be operating on a half line service due to trackside clearance. We may change to running south only on the 9 August so please watch for any service announcements.
The 7.30pm Gwili Fryer train on the 10 August is cancelled.
On the 12 and 13 August we will be operating a Heritage Diesel Railcar Service.
Friday 16 August we will operating on the South Section to Abergwili only, half price fares will be in operation.
During August we have had to make some changes to advertised services due to availability of steam and diesel engines.
The following changes have been made and supersede the printed calendar leaflet sent out to tourist information sites in October 2018:
We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause. All booked passengers who have booked for Steam services will be contacted and can transfer to another day if they do not wish to travel on the Heritage Railcar Diesel Services advertised above.
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
Come along and enjoy a fun packed day of circus skills, juggling and magic at the Gwili Railway.
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
Due to operational reasons we are closed on the 15-16th July.
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.
Travel by steam train to see Santa Claus every December weekend plus extra dates.
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 railway will be closed on Monday 8th July. Due to urgent engine repairs we will be closed Monday.
We apologise for any inconvenience.
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.
Due to the new AGM date on the 29th June we will be closing the railway to allow shareholders and volunteers to attend. We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.
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…
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.
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.
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
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:
Click to download the pdf files below…
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.
See the photo attached for the latest improvements we’ve made to the Strawberry Cream Teas served today. Well done all.
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.
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:
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.
All led by a loyal team of fantastic volunteers who really made the Gwili Railway a magical place to be.
Plus the weather gods were on our side. Copious vats of tea and biscuits were consumed and we all went home dirty, sweaty and proud at what we have achieved.
A huge thank you and love and hugs to the customers who made our day as good as we made theirs.
Photography by Scott Artus on behalf of the Gwili Railway. A selection of photographs from the day…
Further details will be published below. We hope to see you there!
The Gala is a day ticket event. Adult £12, Child £8, Senior £12, Dog £2, Family 2+2 £35. Curry train please book on day with proof of ticket purchase.
https://gwili-railway.co.uk/product/gala-22-june-2019-0900/
22-23 June – Gala time is approaching!
Back in 2018, our “Gwili 40” gala showcased the past 40 years of the Gwili Steam Railway in the preservation era – as well as harking back to early days in preservation in 1978. However, there was still steam to be found in industrial service in South Wales at the time.
For the 2019 gala therefore, 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. Our own “Welsh Guardsman” carries the boiler from Bagnall No.2758 – which famously worked the final train out of Graig Merthyr.
In the latter years of Graig Merthyr colliery, the steam workings were extensively photographed – featuring heavily in the enthusiast press in later years (particularly through the work of photographer Geoff Silcock).
There are many stories surrounding the final train before closure, as it was heavily reported in both the enthusiast and local press at the time. The reporter (for a syndicated paper) was a young Anne Robinson (of “Weakest Link” fame), who rode on the footplate for the final run down the Dulais valley.
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). The loco will be working a demonstration goods train (featuring a series of photographic runpasts), to try and capture some of the atmosphere of the final train at Graig Merthyr back in 1978.
In addition, there will also be plenty else to see! All the usual ‘gala’ attractions will be available. Look out for:
Further details to be announced in the coming days – including copies of both the public and working timetables. We hope to see you there!
Do you order Christmas presents on-line?
Do you book holidays, hotels or insurance on-line?
If you do, are you aware that you can earn a “commission” for the Gwili Railway simply by accessing retailers and service providers through easyfundraising.org.uk ?
If you haven’t used easyfundraising.org.uk before, simply log in to their website or app, and follow the simple instructions, putting “Gwili Railway” in the Get Started box.
Ordering goods or services is then quite simple. Each time, just log in to the easyfundraising website or app, choose your retailer or service provider from the available list, and their website will appear. (The majority of household names are there, but not all). Then you order as normal. You don’t have to be a GRPS member to do this, so please ask your friends and relatives to follow your example!
Thank you.
Confidentiality: You can browse and order in complete confidentiality. Under the terms of the Data Protection Act, the Gwili Railway is not allowed to know your personal details or what you’re ordering. The Railway is sent a periodic report which shows only a summary of orders, together with the number of persons using the service and the total of commission earned.
https://www.easyfundraising.org.uk/causes/gwilirailway/
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
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.
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.
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.
Pictured are:
Welsh Guardsman and GWR Pannier tack 6430, with Autocoach W 228 W on loan from Llangollen Railway. The locomotives meet at Llwyfan Cerrig – September 3rd 2004.
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.
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 Dining Train Dates: Every Thursday during: April, May, June, July,
August, September and October. *Every Thursday and Friday during July and August
Adult £16.00, Seniors £15.00, Child £10.00 (All prices include standard train fare)
Departure Times: 11.00, Cream Teas 13.00/15.00. Online Pre-booking advised.
Treat yourself to a 11.00 Welsh Elevenses aboard our vintage steam train at the Gwili Steam Railway.
Our elevenses on the train will remind you of those genteel days when the pace of life was more relaxed. Go on, treat yourself!
Your elevenses includes Bara Brith, Welsh Cakes and loose leaf Welsh Brew Tea.
Please advise us in advance of food allergies and intolerances.
https://gwili-railway.co.uk/whats-on/
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.
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.
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.
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…
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?
Workday update: On Saturday we gave the loco a jet wash down and a clean all over. While up there we noticed the cab roof was unpainted so gave it a wire brush down and a coat of primer. In the afternoon we sorted out the slidebars and marked them all up. We also got one con-rod out and cleaned and primed.
Join us every Saturday at Llwyfan Cerrig to help restore and join in the fun. Refreshments provided. More information can be found on the dedicated website. https://gvcg.co.uk
Friday 2nd November Charity Fundraiser
What’s on at the Plough Hotel Rhosmaen, Llandeilo:
Call today to book the Plough: 01558 823431
The Plough Hotel Rhosmaen Llandeilo SA19 6NP www.ploughrhosmaen.com
@theploughwales
Building on the future of the Gwili Railway’s Heritage Carriage Shed Appeal – Help Us raise £150,000+
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 £150,000 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.
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:
We may collect and process the following data about you:
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.
We use information held about you in the following ways:
If you do not want us to use your data in these ways, please contact us.
We only share your data with other parties where strictly necessary. We may disclose your information to third parties:
We will never sell, trade, or rent your personal information with other companies.
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.
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.
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.
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
Classic Bike Show
Car Show Page
4×4 Show Page
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
On 11th December 1977, Peckett 0-4-0ST No.1903 “Little Lady” becomes the first loco to arrive at Bronwydd Arms in the preservation era.
Built in Bristol in 1936, the locomotive originally worked for the South Wales Public Wharf & Transit Company in Penarth. It never steamed at the Gwili, and subsequently moved onto the Chasewater Railway.
In 2007 it moved to Chatham Historic Dockyard, where it returned to steam in 2010 – and can still be seen today.
2018 sees the 40th anniversary of the Gwili Railway in the preservation era. Throughout the year, we’ll be looking back through our archives – to find pictures from the preservation era. Look out for more, coming soon… #throwbackthursday #gwili40