Snowdon Mountain Railway, Llanberis

What it is and why it matters

This rack railway opened on 6 April 1896 but closed the same day after an accident, reopening in April 1897. It has run ever since, including through most of the Second World War because of military activity near the summit. The lower station in Llanberis sits at 108 metres, and the summit station stands at 1,065 metres, just 21 metres below the top of the mountain. Gradients on the line are as steep as 1 in 6, which is why trains use a toothed rack rather than ordinary adhesion.

Visiting practicalities

Trains leave from Llanberis station in the village, which has two platforms and views of the engine shed. Tickets are booked online in advance. The season normally starts in spring; in recent years early trains have run only as far as Clogwyn, 779 metres up, until snow clears and the summit station and Hafod Eryri visitor centre reopen, usually around mid-May. Steam trains have returned a few weeks after that. Mountain weather changes quickly, so check the Met Office mountain forecast and dress for cold, wind and rain even in summer.

Nearby and combining your visit

The Llanberis Lake Railway station is just across the A4086, so you can pair a mountain trip with a ride along Llyn Padarn. Walkers often take the train one way and use the Llanberis Path, which starts in the village, for the other leg.

Highlights

• Line of 4.7 miles (7.6 km) from Llanberis towards the summit
• Opened 1896 and in service for well over a century
• Summit station at 1,065 m, 21 m below the top of Yr Wyddfa
• Gradients as steep as 1 in 6
• Steam and heritage services in peak season

Good to know

• Book tickets online in advance.
• Early-season trains may terminate at Clogwyn (779 m) until the summit reopens.
• Check the mountain weather forecast before travelling; summit services depend on conditions.

Frequently asked questions