How to get to Rhyl Miniature Railway
As a popular tourist attraction in a seaside resort town, Rhyl Miniature Railway is very easy to reach.
Rhyl Station is the nearest railway station, located around 1 mile away. Trains to Rhyl run often from locations like Liverpool, Chester, Birmingham and more.
From the train station, visitors can hop onto one of the buses that pass the Miniature Railway. Look out for Arriva Cymru Route 12 (Rhyl Railway Station to Llandudno) if you’re planning to use the bus.
If you have the time, walking the Miniature Railway from the train station would take around 20 minutes.
For visitors opting to drive to this attraction, free parking is available at the Marine Lane car park or on Quay Street.
What to do at Rhyl Miniature Railway
The main event of course at Rhyl Miniature Railway is the railway itself. Most visitors start their visit to the attraction with the 1-mile train ride around Marine Lake. Sit back and enjoy the ride, whether catching a diesel train or a vintage steam locomotive. Some of the coaches used are almost 100 years old, and part of Rhyl’s history. Be sure to check out their timetable if you have a preference.
Visitors are also welcome to bring dogs along - well-behaved furry friends can even ride the trains free of charge. Water bowls for dogs are available on request if not already out.
After returning, take a stroll through the railway’s museum to get a good understanding of its history. The museum features photos, adverts and newspaper cuttings that document the area’s development. There’s also plenty for children to enjoy here, from interactive displays to quizzes and the chance to sit in Billy the Engine’s driver's seat.
To learn even more about the site’s history and its wildlife, follow The Marine Lake Nature and Heritage Trail. Wander the scenic trail, take time to read information panels, spot wildlife and enjoy the natural beauty. Visitors can even follow along with smartphones with the use of QR codes.
Take advantage of the attraction’s location at Rhyl Marine Lake by getting stuck into some crabbing. This popular activity is a favourite of children and adults alike. You can bring supplies along or purchase a full kit from the railway shop. Crabbing involves dangling crab bait into the water, waiting for a crab to take hold, and pulling it out of the water. Free advice is available, so it doesn’t matter whether you’re an expert or a beginner.
There’s also a designated play area available for when it feels like time to let the kids blow off some steam. Marine Lake Play Area contains swings and small rides for young children, as well as a climbing net for adventurous older kids.
During your exciting visit, you might fancy a drink or something tasty to eat. Not a problem, as the ticket office sells hot drinks, soft drinks, ice cream and other confectionery. Why not pick up a treat to enjoy on your way around the site?
About Rhyl Miniature Railway
Opened in 1911, this North Wales tourist attraction has been delighting visitors for over 100 years. The railway holds the title of Britain's oldest miniature railway and is brimming with interesting history.
Engineer Henry Greenly, who thought that Marine Lake would be an ideal spot, designed the railway. At the time of building, there were few attractions in the area. As the lake became more popular, the area built up and a fairground soon emerged. The attraction began to thrive.
Rhyl Miniature Railway prices are low at £3.50 per adult and £2.50 per child, enabling the public to enjoy its facilities for less. The railway strives to make sure that future generations can continue to enjoy the site, as they have in the past. Support organisation ‘Friends of Rhyl Miniature Railway’ is integral in doing so.
The group supports Rhyl Steam Preservation Trust to continue to develop the railway’s facilities. Rhyl Miniature Railway is ever-improving. For example, in 2007 the railway became accessible for wheelchairs. An adapted carriage enables wheelchair users to enjoy a ride on the locomotive.
Ways to save on your train ticket to Rhyl Miniature Railway
With Avanti, there are lots of ways to save on trains to Rhyl. By booking direct, you’re guaranteed the best price for your journey and won’t pay a penny in booking fees.
Travelling Off-Peak is another great way to reduce the cost of your journey. If you have the freedom to travel at quieter times, opt for this cheaper ticket type.
Family Train Tickets are a perfect solution to saving on your trip to Rhyl Miniature Railway. This ticket type helps you save money on travel for up to 2 adults and 3 children. As a result, leaving you and the family with more spare cash to spend on seaside ice creams.
Let’s not forget Railcards, ideal for frequent travellers and one of the simplest ways to save 1/3 on train tickets. There’s a suitable card for every kind of passenger.
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