The Harbourmaster / Yr Harbwrfeistr

Your locomotive and carriages: Hauled by one of our impressive Beyer Garratt NG/G16s; the largest engines at this gauge, the long train snakes along, sometimes climbing, sometimes descending on its journey across the foothills of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon). Modern carriages with large windows give panoramic views on both sides of the train. There is a mix of two and four seat bays with tables in each carriage. These may be combined for larger groups. A gold service in our delightful Pullman observation carriage is also available. 

What will you see: Starting its journey from the old slate quays beside the harbour in Porthmadog, ‘The Harbourmaster’ steams inland across the floodplain and meadows of Traeth Mawr (Big Estuary), through the Aberglaslyn Pass and Beddgelert village, before climbing the forested hillside and onto the foothills of Yr Wyddfa/Snowdon. Passing the summit of the line (‘Y Copa’ in Welsh) it starts its descent towards the harbour and quayside at Caernarfon – passing small hill farms, running alongside Llyn (Lake) Cwellyn and following the Afon/River Gwyrfai to reach its destination, the Welsh Highland Railway’s impressive station building beside Caernarfon Castle. Each section has a fascinating story and your journey is much enhanced by a Traveller’s Guide with its open out map and line guide to enable you to follow the route. 

On Train Stewards: Our friendly staff will pass through the train telling you information about what you can see from the carriage windows and selling light refreshments from the catering trolley. Guide books will also be for sale.

Caernarfon: On arrival at Caernarfon, there is time to explore this historic town – with its narrow streets, small shops and market square – during the approximately 1hour 45 minute break before the train heads back to Porthmadog. Some of the main sights include the historic Caernarfon castle and the charming Artisan Quarter of Cei Llechi. The modern station has a well-stocked gift shop and friendly café with freshly baked snacks to stock up for your return journey. 

Tickets: your pre-booked ticket is for a return journey. One way tickets are available on this service and may be booked by calling our Booking Office or on the day, subject to availability. An optional pre-book picnic basket service is available to enhance your trip. 

NB: On line bookings are also available to join this train at Beddgelert station and at Meillionen Halt serving Forest Holidays.

Gold service also available on these trains – Go here for details.