March 20, 2026 - 212 views
The Llangollen and Corwen Railway has announced a limited programme of exclusive footplate experiences as part of its highly anticipated Branch Line Gala, taking place from Friday 10 to Sunday 12 April 2026.
The experiences will give visitors a rare opportunity to travel in the cab of a working heritage locomotive, alongside the driver and fireman, offering a unique behind the scenes insight into the operation of steam traction on a traditional rural branch line.
Footplate passes will be available on two of the railway’s headline locomotives for the gala weekend, resident pannier tank No. 7754 and heavy freight locomotive No. 3802, with a mixture of full-length and shorter runs operating across the three days.
Full-length runs covering extended sections of the line will be priced at £130, with shorter half-length experiences available from £65, allowing enthusiasts and visitors alike to experience the sights, sounds and atmosphere of steam operation from the footplate itself. A special intermediate-length run between Carrog and Llangollen will also be offered on the Sunday.
The railway says the experiences form part of its commitment to providing immersive and memorable heritage railway events, giving visitors the chance to connect directly with the skills and traditions that define Britain’s railway history.
Iain Ross, Organiser of the Branch Line Gala, said, “Footplate experiences are one of the most exciting and authentic ways to experience a heritage railway. They offer a completely different perspective on the operation of these historic locomotives and allow participants to appreciate the teamwork, concentration and skill required to run a busy branch line service.
“With an intensive gala timetable, visiting locomotives and a strong Great Western theme, the 2026 Branch Line Gala is already shaping up to be one of our most ambitious events in recent years. Adding a programme of footplate rides allows us to offer something truly special for enthusiasts and visitors who want to get even closer to the action.”
The Branch Line Gala will feature an intensive timetable of steam and diesel services across the full length of the line between Llangollen and Corwen, alongside freight demonstrations, brake van rides, shed tours, live music and a wide range of catering and refreshment options at stations along the route.
Footplate experience places are strictly limited and will be allocated on a first come, first served basis.
Further details and advance booking information for Footplate Passes on the Branch Line Gala are available here - https://llan.hops.org.uk/tickets/branchline-gala/footplate2026
