Narrow Gauge Pleasure

The Fairbourne Railway

The Railway Today

Two trains pass in the loop

The Fairbourne Railway's Sherpa

Yeo, a replica of the Lynton and Barnstaple Railway Loco (now sadly long gone)

Photos by Simon Pugh

The Fairbourne Railway is a 2 1/2 mile line laid to a gauge of 12 1/4". The railway and ferry together still provide a link between the village of Fairbourne and the town of Barmouth which is a short ferry ride across the Mawddach estuary from Barmouth Ferry station. Most of those who use it now do so as much for the pleasure of the leisurely rail journey and short ferry ride as the fact that using it cuts off a 13 mile journey round the estuary by road.

The railway offers a frequent service in the high season and the Fairbourne terminus also houses a museum, with free admission, and a tea room.

History and Origins

The Fairbourne Railway can trace its origins back to 1895 when Arthur McDougall (better known for his flour) financed construction of a horse drawn tramway to transport materials for the construction of Fairbourne Village.

In 1914 Narrow Gauge Railways Limited had unused 15" gauge track, locomotives and rolling stock which had served in exhibitions and amusement parks before the war, which sadly put a stop to this activity. The company was seeking somewhere to utilise this equipment, for profit, but also with the intention of providing a public service. So it was that Narrow Gauge Railways Limited took over the tramway in 1916 and turned it into a 15" gauge steam hauled railway.

In 1924 Narrow Gauge Railways Limited got into financial difficulties and the Railway ended up in the hands of the Fairbourne Estate and Development company.

Sadly during the second world war the Fairbourne Railway (like the Romney Hythe and Dymchurch) was heavily damaged by practice landings and other military activity. Fortunately following the war the track was gradually relayed and services resumed bit by bit. The post war period was a time when Holiday activity in Britain was at a peak so that the Railway enjoyed a period of prosperity.

Having changed hands once again in 1985 the Railway was re-gauged to 12 1/4" in which form it continues to bring pleasure to many visitors during every holiday season.