Despite having been to Rhyl on multiple occasions and holidayed in Towyn during my childhood, I had never visit Rhyl Miniature Railway! So over Easter weekend we took a trip over to Rhyl to visit the Rhyl Miniature Railway.
Brief History
The Rhyl Miniature Railway was opened in 1911 – on the first of May (so that’s exactly 113 years ago today!) and holds the title of the oldest mini steam railway in the UK. It’s a 15 inch gauge so clearly a miniature railway.
Miniature steam engines operating on the Rhyl Miniature Railway were built in by Albert Barnes & Co – company that was based in Rhyl, so very much a local operation. Further locomotives were later added to the collection.
After a brief break in operations in the 1960/70s due to a disagreement between Trust House Forte Ltd and the Council, the railway restarted operations in July 1978.
Current Operations
The railway is now operated by Rhyl Steam Preservation Trust which is a registered charity. Your journey starts off from Central Station and you travel for approx 1 mile around Rhyl’s infamous Marine Lake.
Locomotives in operation today include some original engines such as Michael as well as some bought in engines like Cagney44 (which came from New York) and Clara – an ex Dudley Zoo Railway diesel engine.
Museum Exhibits
Back at Central Station be sure to visit the museum area where there’s plenty of exhibits. On display locomotive 106 “Billy” – one of the original Albert Barnes & Co locos.
Also in the museum area are some historical information boards, interactive videos and on certain event days some activities. We visited over Easter weekend and there were plenty of Easter activities including an Easter Egg hunt, arts and crafts and even the Easter Bunny himself turned up.
How To Find Rhyl Miniature Railway and Other Info
Rhyl Miniature Railway is located at Marine Lake at the west end of Rhyl. We parked at Cei Marina Retail Park opposite but there’s also a carpark at Marine Lake itself (albeit a pay and display one).
Train fares are £3.50 per adult and £2.50 per child for one trip around Marine Lake. And one of the best things is that you are given an actual proper ticket! It’s a rare thing these days! The Museum is free of charge.
I really enjoyed our morning at this marvellous little railway. The staff were all very friendly and the kiddos enjoyed the Easter activities. I’d definitely recommend a visit.
