While it is theoretically possible to take the 'Grand Tour' in a day, to do so would
rely on some hair's breadth connections, particularly with the infrequently-served Heart
of Wales, Conway Valley and Cambrian Coast Lines. Not only that, although the view
from the carriage window would give more than just a flavour of the wide range of scenery
and terrain which the land of Wales has to offer, to remain on the train would be to miss
out on the vast variety of people, places and things to meet, see or do.
The purpose of this page is to outline the route, so that, using the WalesRails pages,
travellers with the time to spare, and a suitable rail pass in
their pocket, can plan an itinerary for a memorable and enjoyable stay in the
principality. Thoroughly spoiled for choice, the visitor will have to make a number of
hard decisions: whether to plump for this castle, or that; whether to explore this stretch
of coast or hike along that mountain range. Whether to ramble from one station to rejoin
the train at another, or to embark on longer treks though unspoiled wilderness. Whether to
delve into the country's history, art, craft, sport, theatre, or film - including visiting
the locations where an increasing number of cinema block-busters were - or are being -
shot.
The train - and bus connections - can help you fulfil all these interests or pursuits in
an environmentally friendly way: The choice is yours!
In a journey totalling around 500 miles, almost a fifth will be spent travelling in
England, so purists may argue that this is cannot be called a tour of Wales. But this
mileage - between Pontrilas, 12 miles south of Hereford, and Chirk; and between Craven
Arms and Knighton on the Heart of Wales Line - is all in Marcher Country, the troublesome
borderland between England and Wales long fought over by a succession of Welsh princes and
rebels of the Middle Ages. So, even if it does remain part of England, at least it wasn't
for the want of trying!
The Itinerary
The route is shown in blue on the map (for the benefit of
monochrome browser users, place-names are given corresponding to the itinerary sections
displayed alongside).
It is not suggested that the itinerary should be followed rigidly, and other lines, with
their termini, are shown in black, so that diversions from the route outlined can be
planned. For instance, rather than change trains at Shotton, the visitor may prefer to
venture a little further outside Wales and spend some time in the walled medieval city of
Chester.
To obtain information on the options available along the route, selecting any of the links
will bring up the relevant WalesRails page. Below the map there are links to the gazetteer
of stations or other route sections.
For convenience, the itinerary starts in Cardiff and goes in a counter-clockwise direction
around the country; but the tour can be joined at any point along the way, or travelled in
either direction.
Happy planning, and enjoy your trip!
For details of connecting bus services, including travel
planner and timetables, visit the Traveline
Cymru website.
