I have an itinerary completed for a trip to North Wales in late May. The only thing that I cannot figure out is a train route ( it seems bus would be a very long time frame ) from Harlech to Ruthin (or Denbigh.) For this reason I have not booked accommodation in Harlech. My second choice would be Criccieth, although it seems that a train from there is complicated or impossible as well ? If this will not work then I will not go to the Lleyn Peninsula.
Posted by
2404 posts
There is no train route. This is mountainous rural Wales! It can be done using 3 buses. eg. You could leave Harlech at 9.28 on bus 39 (Express Motors) for Barmouth. Then you have about an hour of hanging about - no bad thing as Barmouth is quite nice with a beach and harbour. You then leave Barmouth on bus T3 (Lloyds Coaches) for Bala - where you have more time hanging about. (Time together some lunch or admire the lake)? Finally, Lew Jones Coaches (Bus service 55) will get you to Ruthin at 1.20pm. Pay the bus drivers.
You can check out the journeys here for your date:>https://www.traveline.cymru
Yes, from Criccieth to Ruthin would be just as difficult using public transport.
Here is a map showing the rail routes in green:> http://www.projectmapping.co.uk/Reviews/Resources/ATW%20Route%20Map%20-%20Dec%202013.pdf
These steam narrow gauge railways are worth using just for the scenery. They also can be used to link the main rail routes.
www.festrail.co.uk
Posted by
OP
Canada
29 posts
Thanks so much for your great detailed information. I think I will take the bus and just enjoy as you stated. Yes, I do know certain things about North Wales as my grandparents grew up there but much I don't know as well, looking forward to my holiday to explore and meet some relatives.
Posted by
2404 posts
So, it is family connections that are taking you to Ruthin?
Could any of the relatives drive you over to Ruthin from the west coast?
If you are arriving in Harlech by train, note that it is a steep hill up from the station to the village up by the Castle.
You should be able to visit this place while in the area. (Minffordd is the nearest rail station - but the trains are in frequent and it is about a 1 mile walk from the station into Portmeirion. Minffordd has 2 stations - normal trains and narrow gauge Ffestioniog Railway).http://www.portmeirion-village.com/visit/
http://www.visitmidwales.co.uk/destination/Barmouth.aspx?AskRedirect=true
http://www.barmouth.org.uk
Posted by
OP
Canada
29 posts
Yes, I do have relatives that are driving me places to and from. I don't want to impose on them for this part of my trip as it will not be convenient for them due to work etc. I need to be a little independent ! Thanks for the tip about the train station in Harlech. I may be taking the train there from Anglesey.
Posted by
2404 posts
You can’t take a train from Anglesey to Harlech. You would need to get to Caernarfon - which has a fine castle. Then bus to Porthmadog & then train to Harlech (or another * bus). You could use the Welsh Highland Railway to get from Caernarfon to Porthmadog.* If you use the bus from Porthmadog to Harlech - you will arrive at the top of the hill.
Also check out:>https://www.snowdonrailway.co.uk