Snowdon Mountain Railway
Llanberis, Snowdonia
- Independent UK guide
- Free to use
- Affiliate links clearly labelled
- Updated October 2026
What to expect
The Snowdon Mountain Railway is a rack and pinion railway that climbs from Llanberis for nearly five miles toward the summit of Snowdon. Trains run to the summit station, Hafod Eryri, when conditions allow, and sometimes only part of the way in poor weather. It is the easiest way to enjoy the upper mountain if you do not want to walk both ways.
Tips before you go
- Book ahead, as popular departures sell out.
- Ask about the point the train will reach before you travel.
- Take layers, because it is much colder at the top.
Book or plan it
Prices and availability change, so compare. These are affiliate links.
Where to base yourself
Wales's mountain heartland, with Snowdon at its centre
A weekend in LlandudnoConwyA grand Victorian seaside resort beneath the Great Orme
What to pack
Handy things people often forget. These are Amazon links, so prices and availability are set by Amazon.
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More kit guides: Wet-weather gear
Related activities
Snowdon, or Yr Wyddfa, is the highest mountain in Wales at 1,085 metres.
Mountain biking at Coed y BreninNear Dolgellau, Snowdonia, WalesCoed y Brenin forest is widely known as one of the UK's first purpose-built mountain bike trail centres, with graded trails from gentle family loops to hard technical descents.
Jacobite steam trainFort William to Mallaig, Scottish HighlandsThe Jacobite is a steam train that runs between Fort William and Mallaig on the West Highland Line, crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct made famous by the Harry Potter films.
Frequently asked questions
Does the train always reach the summit?
No. In strong winds or poor weather it may stop lower down. Check on the day.
Last reviewed October 2026. Prices, opening times and conditions change, so check with the provider before you go.