Valleys and Railways of Mid Wales

We meet in Llandrindod Wells at the Metropole Hotel and Spa, where we stay for four nights.

• Dinner

We board the steam-hauled Rheilffordd Talyllyn Railway to Tywyn. Tucked away in the wildflower meadows of southern Snowdonia, the beautiful Talyllyn Railway paints a cheerful red trail over the bridges and through the forests of North Wales. Originally opened in 1865, the seven-mile journey takes us past waterfalls, streams and the delightful Merioneth mountains. Enjoy some free time in Tywyn. You could visit the Narrow Gauge Railway Museum. Or maybe see the Awdry Study, a partial reconstruction of Reverend Wilbert Awdry's study, author of the much-loved Thomas the Tank Engine, and a volunteer on the Talyllyn Railway.

*Steam-hauled where possible

• Breakfast, Dinner

We head into Elan Valley, an area known as the 'Welsh Lake District' where several man-made lakes are connected by six dams. The most impressive, Craig Goch, is built in the Birmingham Baroque style, with elegantly curved walls and a series of narrow arches. We enjoy a guided tour with a local ranger, discovering the stunning architecture. We continue to Devil's Bridge, where we join the steam-hauled Vale of Rheidol Railway for a scenic journey through the Welsh valleys to Aberystwyth. We transfer to the university for an insight into Welsh heritage, with an 'Introduction to Welsh Language' lesson. Aberystwyth University is the perfect place to learn about the language; it's the school where Prince Charles studied Welsh, and his time here featured in Netflix's The Crown. You enjoy a little free time in Aberystwyth; perhaps take a stroll down the traditional seafront.

• Breakfast, Dinner

We discover the medieval Powis Castle and its attractive formal gardens. The castle dates back to the 13th century and its gardens are a paradise steeped in history. Afterwards, we travel by coach to Welshpool, where we board the steam-hauled Welshpool and Llanfair Light Railway for a journey through the heart of Wales. Making its way through the wild countryside, a canvas of deep forests and impressive mountains, the Welshpool and Llanfair Light Railway first opened in 1903. Its route from Welshpool to Llanfair is one of the British Isles' most historic rail journeys, with the charming old carriages and green steam engine recalling the halcyon days of train travel. Back at our hotel, we're joined by a local ladies' choir who provide entertainment during dinner.

*Steam-hauled where possible

• Breakfast, Dinner

After breakfast, our holiday concludes and you're free to depart. 

• Breakfast