Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways have been named Wales’ Best Attraction for 2025 after completing a $6.2 million revitalization project funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways Earn Top Tourism Honor
A file picture of the narrow steam train “Margaret” departing Minffordd Station on its way to Porthmadog (Image: Robert Parry Jones)

The heritage upgrade focused on Boston Lodge Works, the world’s oldest operational railway works. It restored historic buildings and modernized visitor interpretation to honor the railways’ 70-year legacy.

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More than 200,000 visitors explore Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways each year. The award-winning site attracts travelers with its rich history, scenic routes, and immersive guided tours.

Community Impact of Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways

To preserve authenticity, local contractors managed $4.1 million of the construction. Specialists from other regions participated only when local teams weren’t available.

The project supported education through extensive outreach. Over 200 young people received hands-on work experience. More than 250 students engaged with custom learning programs.

The railways relied heavily on community involvement. Nearly 600 volunteers contributed 40,000 hours during the restoration. More than 100 of them joined the team for the first time.

Annual volunteer support across the full railway network totals over 90,000 hours, strengthening both operations and local pride.

New Visitor Experience at Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways

New guided tours at Boston Lodge now offer a behind-the-scenes look into the railway’s legacy. Professional hosts lead the three-hour experience, showcasing its history and current operations.

This experience builds on the World Heritage status of the Slate Landscape of Northwest Wales, which includes the railway as a central feature.

Andrew White, Director of The National Lottery Heritage Fund in Wales, said the project has brought economic, educational, and cultural benefits to the region.

He emphasized that heritage plays a key role in uniting communities, fostering local pride, and boosting tourism-related businesses across Wales.

Paul Lewin, Director and General Manager, praised the partnership with the Heritage Fund. He stated that the improvements help prepare Boston Lodge for future generations.

While Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways continue preserving historic infrastructure, they also evolve to inspire visitors and volunteers alike.

This blend of tradition and innovation secures the railways’ place as a world-class destination—and as a proud symbol of Welsh heritage.

Source: www.dailypost.co.uk

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