The Vale of Rheidol Railway Museum has an extensive collection of historical narrow gauge locomotives and rolling stock. Many items were collected by the Railway's late Chairman, Peter Rampton, and the collection has become known as “Collection X”.
Exhibits change regularly and admission to the museum is free of charge, excluding special events*.
The mighty Garratt No. 60 “Drakensberg” is part of the permanent collection at the Museum and is sometimes seen in operation, in full steam.
All three Vale of Rheidol ‘Tank’ engines can be seen out in steam hauling passenger trains, each in a different British Rail livery: No. 7 Owain Glyndŵr in green, No. 8 Llywelyn in black and No. 9 Prince of Wales in blue.
If you are visiting to see a particular locomotive, check the website or contact the Railway in advance to check whether it is on display.
This summer, from 25th July to 9th August the Engine Shed will welcome back Pete Waterman and the Making Tracks Team with their 72ft model railway layout of Watford Junction. Tickets on sale via www.vor.wales
'Making Tracks' by the sea
Following the huge success of last year’s World Record Model Railway, Pete Waterman and his talented team from Making Tracks are returning to the seaside town with their spectacular 72-foot-long Watford Junction model railway layout.
The railway’s Engine Shed Museum will transform into a miniature world of precision engineering and nostalgic charm. Built to an impressive 12:5 scale, the Watford Junction layout is not only visually stunning but also packed with intricate detail, from faithfully recreated station architecture to bustling trackside scenes that bring the railway to life.
This is far more than a display. Visitors will have the opportunity to get hands-on and drive the trains themselves, making it an immersive experience for all ages. Whether you’re a lifelong railway enthusiast, a family looking for an engaging day out, or simply curious about the magic of model railways, there’s something here to capture your imagination.
Visitors young and old can also take part in a fun beach-themed treasure hunt, searching the layout for cleverly hidden seaside-inspired items tucked among the tracks, buildings, and scenery.
Tickets are expected to be popular, so booking in advance is highly recommended. Don’t miss your chance to experience this unique blend of engineering, creativity, and interactive fun by the sea
Christmas at the Vale of Rheidol
Step into the magic of the season with the Ticket to Christmas at the Vale of Rheidol Railway.
Begin your journey with a nostalgic steam train aboard a beautifully restored steam train, breathing in the scent of coal and steam as you ride through the wintry Welsh landscape.
After a round trip to our Capel Bangor station and back, return to the Engine Shed Museum for a magical, immersive Christmas experience. With historic steam locomotives as the backdrop, children and adults will journey through three enchanting zones meeting colourful characters, enjoying hands-on activities along the way, before a grand finale meeting with Santa Claus himself and a gift for all!
16th to 23rd December 2026
