Brecon Mountain Railway: Torpantau to Pontsticill (One Way)

Merthyr Tydfil

Brecon Mountain Railway
Available until 2 May 2026

Observe the beauty of the Brecon Beacons on a one-way journey from Torpantau to Pontsticill

Step aboard an all-weather observation carriage and enjoy a steam-hauled journey from Torpantau Station into the heart of the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons National Park). 

  • Brecon Beacons Scenery: From lush woodland to dramatic reservoir views, the route offers a varied landscape in every season.
  • Vintage Locomotives: Travel on the main line from Torpantau to Pontsticill in an all-weather Observation Carriages, behind a vintage Steam Locomotive.
  • Family-Friendly Experience: A gentle-paced journey suitable for all ages, with opportunities to leave the train and explore at the midway point.

Important notice: Please arrive at Torpantau Station at least 20 minutes before your booked departure time to allow time for parking, checking in, and finding your seats. Trains depart promptly at the advertised time and unfortunately cannot be held for late arrivals.

This route follows part of the original Brecon & Merthyr Railway, which closed in 1964, passing through beautiful woodland, alongside the full length of the Taf Fechan Reservoir.

What to bring:

  • Comfortable clothing and footwear 
  • A light jacket or extra layer — weather can change quickly in the Brecon Beacons
  • Sun protection in summer (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
  • A refillable water bottle (refills available at Pant)
  • Camera or phone for photos
  • Cash or card for café purchases and souvenirs
  • Dog lead if bringing your dog (dogs welcome in all areas)
  • The carriages are not heated, so during the cooler months wrap up warm!

Book your tickets today, or see what else is on at Brecon Mountain Railway by clicking here. 

Location

Brecon Mountain Railway

Pant Rd,
Pant,
Merthyr Tydfil,
CF48 2DD
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How to find us

By bus & rail:

Public service buses operate from Merthyr Tydfil town centre bus station to Pant (cemetery). From Mondays to Saturdays, the service is operated by Stagecoach on route 35, buses run every 15 minutes. 

Rail services are operated from Cardiff to Merthyr Tydfil by Transport For Wales, trains run every 30 minutes Monday to Saturday and every two hours on Sundays. Timings may differ for Bank Holiday services.

By car:

Car parking is only available at Pant Station, there are no facilities at Pontsticill or Torpantau.

The main station (Pant) is located just off the Heads of the Valleys Trunk Road – about three miles north of Merthyr Tydfil. Follow the MOUNTAIN RAILWAY signs and roadside train symbols from the A470 and A465 and you arrive in our large free car park and coach park.

If you are using a Satellite Navigation System please ensure that you use the following postcode: CF48 2DD

Facilities
  • Free parking
  • Toilets
  • Gift shop
  • Tearooms (Pant Station)
  • Lakeside Café (Pontsticill)
More Info
What will we see on the Brecon Mountain Railway trip?

The line runs from Pant Station into the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park, through Pontsticill and alongside the Taf Fechan Reservoir to Dolygaer, before climbing to Torpantau — the summit of the original railway. On clear days, you can see Pen-y-fan, the highest mountain in South Wales (886m).

The route also passes through woodland, and in summer months the lush foliage can obscure some views, but it's part of the charm of travelling through this beautiful landscape.

How long does the Brecon Mountain Railway trip take?

About 1 hour 30 minutes return, including a 25–35 minute stop at Pontsticill Station.

What time should I arrive to Brecon Mountain Railway?

Please arrive at least 20–30 minutes before departure to allow time for parking, collecting tickets, and finding your seats. Trains leave promptly and can’t be delayed.

Is Brecon Mountain Railway wheelchair-accessible?

Yes, there is a specially-adapted carriage for manual wheelchairs, with ramped access and staff assistance. Due to weight and width restrictions, powered wheelchairs or mobility scooters can not be carried. Spaces are limited and will need to be pre-booked. 

Are dogs allowed on the Brecon Mountain Railway?

Yes, well-behaved dogs are welcome on all trains for a small fee (except during Santa Specials, when only assistance dogs are permitted). Dogs are allowed in both cafés, the gift shop, and outdoor seating areas.

Assistance dogs are welcome at all times.

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