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On this coastal rail journey, you will delve into Welsh history by following in the footsteps of the last true 'Prince of Wales', Owain Glyndwr. You will be exploring some of the most awe-inspiring castles Wales has to offer.
Travelling on the scenic Cambrian Coast Line, starting at Aberystwyth, it is a short 30 minute journey to the explore the historic market town of Machynlleth. Following a stop in Machynlleth, you will travel on a 90 minutes journey north, hugging the southern Snowdonia coastline to Harlech and its awesome castle.
Aberystwyth
Embark on your Glyndwr's Castle's rail trail by immersing yourself in the historic ambiance of Aberystwyth Castle. Nestled on the town's picturesque seafront, the castle offers panoramic vistas of both the town and the enchanting Cardigan Bay. This fortress stands as a poignant relic of times past, a witness to the tumultuous events including its capture by Owain Glyndwr during his rebellion. With this castle as your starting point, your journey unfolds.
A brief stroll from the castle brings you to Aberystwyth Railway Station, where you'll board a train bound for the north, tracing a route that meanders alongside the stunning Dyfi estuary. Your destination: the charming town of Machynlleth. Along the way, keep a keen eye out for the majestic Dyfi Ospreys, whose nests grace the railway's proximity near Machynlleth.
Machynlleth - the ancient capitol of Wales
A visit to Machynlleth is a must on this journey (at the end of the station road, turn left for the short walk into the town). The very first Welsh government was established by Owain Glyndwr here in 1404 and was his ancient seat of power.
Just 4 miles from Machynlleth is the St Peter Ad Vincula Church, Pennal which is the site at which Owain Glyndŵr’s Llythyr Pennal (Pennal Letter) was signed. The church is recorded as having served several Welsh princes and it is possible that it was designated a Chapel Royal of the Princes of Gwynedd under Owain Glyndŵr.
Today Machynlleth is the crossing point for the Glyndwr's Way National Trail - a long distance walking trail that links the Offa's Dyke National at Knighton and Welshpool.
If you visit on a Wednesday, you will be spoilt for choice at the weekly street market. One of the best in Mid Wales offering a great selection of local produce! After a quick bite to eat at one of many of Machynlleth's cafes and restaurants, head by rail on the Cambrian Coast Line to Harlech.
Cambrian Coast Line | Aberdyfi - Harlech
Next head back to the train station in Machynlleth and head north up the Cambrian Coast through Aberdyfi, Tywyn, Fairbourne, Barmouth & the Mawddach Estuary and on to Harlech.
Above you you can't miss Harlech Castle - a UNESCO World Heritage site - one of the finest examples of castles in Wales. This castle was built on a prominent outcrop and like Aberystwyth played a prominent part in Owain Glyndwrs' uprising. In 1404 the castle fell to the charismatic prince Owain Glyndŵr during the last major rebellion against English rule. Together with nearby Machynlleth it became the centre of Glyndŵr’s inspiring vision of an independent Wales.
Harlech Castle was completed from ground to battlements in just seven years under the guidance of gifted architect Master James of St George. Its classic ‘walls within walls’ design makes the most of daunting natural defences.
The castle dominates the skyline around Harlech and presents spectacular views of the Cardigan Coast and beyond. For a full appreciation of the castle, a visit in the morning might be more worthwhile.
Harlech
Harlech has a small number of restaurants and cafes in the town and a number of places for you to stay the night.
In the marvellous sweep of Cardigan Bay stand the ruins of one of Edward I's late 13th century castles. Of the seven major English strongholds he established in Wales, Aberystwyth Castle has fared least favourably in the survival stakes.
The railway station is the terminus of the Cambrian Line from Shrewsbury. Located close to the town centre, there is a taxi rank and bus station adjacent.
Unwind in the heart of the Dyfi Biosphere at Machynlleth. Part of the UNESCO Dyfi Biosphere and offers exciting activities, from mountain biking to exploring the natural beauty of Mid Wales. The Centre for Alternative Technology is an excellent place to learn about environmentalism, while the…
This long established hotel strikes a stylish balance of the modern and the classical. Chef Gareth Johns ably updates classic dishes and reworks them for the modern appetite. Fully licensed restaurant
Machynlleth railway station is on the Cambrian Line from Shrewsbury to Aberystwyth. Trains also depart from here for the Cambrian Coast Line to Pwllheli.
Aberdyfi is a charming coastal village in Southern Snowdonia, boasting a stunning beach with views of Cardigan Bay and opportunities for sailing and watersports. The area is also home to a nature reserve and Ramsar site.
The vast and sandy Mawddach estuary is one of Snowdonia National Park’s most remarkable areas. The area is designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a Special Area of Conservation due to its salt marsh and lowland peat habitats.
Harlech railway station is on the Cambrian Coast Line from Machynlleth to Pwllheli.
Explore the magnificent castle of Edward I at Harlech - which is inscribed on the World Heritage List. One of the most formidable and dominant fortresses in Wales. Panoramic views of Snowdonia and the sea. On site exhibition.
Harlech is a historic town on the Snowdonia coast which has fantastic beaches, Royal St David's - one of Wales' finest golf courses and Harlech Castle which a World heritage site.
| From | To | Distance * (metric) |
|---|---|---|
| Aberystwyth Castle (52.41578,-4.0849) | Aberystwyth Railway Station (52.41395,-4.08183) | 0.26 |
| Aberystwyth Railway Station (52.41395,-4.08183) | Machynlleth (52.59063,-3.85302) | 22.54 |
| Machynlleth (52.59063,-3.85302) | The Wynnstay | Food & Drink (52.58723,-3.85359) | 0.34 |
| The Wynnstay | Food & Drink (52.58723,-3.85359) | Machynlleth Railway Station (52.59513,-3.85459) | 0.79 |
| Machynlleth Railway Station (52.59513,-3.85459) | Aberdyfi | Aberdovey Beach (52.5423,-4.05267) | 13.17 |
| Aberdyfi | Aberdovey Beach (52.5423,-4.05267) | Mawddach Estuary (52.7055,-4.02172) | 16.46 |
| Mawddach Estuary (52.7055,-4.02172) | Harlech Railway Station (52.8612,-4.10914) | 16.48 |
| Harlech Railway Station (52.8612,-4.10914) | Harlech Castle (Cadw) (52.8605,-4.10949) | 0.07 |
| Harlech Castle (Cadw) (52.8605,-4.10949) | Harlech (52.85862,-4.10905) | 0.19 |
| Total Distance * | 70.3 miles | |
| Estimated Journey Time | 2.26 hours | |
* Approximate distance by road
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