The Llangollen Railway Trust is encouraging supporters to become members as one of Wales’ leading heritage railways celebrates its landmark 50th anniversary year.
With close to 1,000 members and around 400 active volunteers, the Trust plays a vital role in preserving and developing the award-winning railway, which runs for ten miles through the spectacular Dee Valley between Llangollen and Corwen.
There is still plenty to enjoy during the remainder of 2026, beginning this Sunday, 9 August, with the first Glyndŵr Steam Roast. The new experience combines a steam-hauled journey through the Dee Valley with a traditional Sunday lunch at the community-run Owain Glyndŵr Hotel in Corwen. It will then run every Sunday until 8 November.
On 12 and 13 September, the railway will hold its spectacular 50 Years Finale Celebration Weekend, featuring an intensive timetable of steam locomotives, diesel locomotives and heritage diesel multiple units. Special rover tickets will offer unlimited travel throughout the weekend.
The Heritage Railcar Gala follows on 17 and 18 October, celebrating Britain’s much-loved first-generation diesel multiple units. On 7 November, Ride the Rocket will take passengers from Llangollen to Corwen for an evening steam journey culminating in a major fireworks display.
The festive season begins with Santa Specials from 28 November through to Christmas Eve, followed by the railway’s special Welsh-language Siôn Corn Arbennig experiences. The Mince Pie Specials will then operate from 27 to 31 December, with an additional service on New Year’s Day 2027.
Membership subscriptions help support the restoration and maintenance of locomotives, carriages, historic buildings, infrastructure and railway artefacts. Every new membership helps safeguard this important part of Welsh heritage.
Peter Holton, from the Llangollen Railway Trust Membership Team, said, “There has never been a better time to become a member. Annual membership starts from just £30, and members receive a 25 per cent discount on heritage travel throughout the year, including the Branch Line Gala and our other services and events.
“You only need to visit the railway a few times during the year to make back the cost of membership. Hundreds of our active volunteers already enjoy the discount while giving their time to support the railway they love.
“Membership is about much more than saving money. It is about becoming part of the railway family and helping to preserve something very special. We are also asking every existing member to encourage a friend, relative or fellow railway enthusiast to join us. Every additional member makes us stronger.”
Members receive a quarterly magazine in digital or printed format, a say on how the railway is run at Annual General Meetings and access to an exclusive Online Membership Zone.
The Online Membership Zone will feature regular Trust reports, behind-the-scenes news, restoration updates, advance information about projects and events, exclusive content and additional member-only offers and discounts.
Peter added, “We want our members to feel closer than ever to the railway. The Online Membership Zone will be the place to discover exclusive news and content that will not be available elsewhere.
“We are incredibly grateful to everyone who renews their membership each year. Their loyalty helps keep the railway alive, not only in steam, but in spirit.”
