The award-winning Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railways have announced that their popular ‘The Whistling Dragon’ steam service will return during this half-term holiday, in what it describes as a “mythical steam train adventure – where legends come to life.”

‘The Whistling Dragon’ will depart from Caernarfon Station, which will be decked out in spooky Halloween decorations, on Monday 27, Tuesday 28, Thursday 30 and Friday 31 October.

Caernarfon station was rebuilt in 2019 at a cost of £3.5 million.

The new Caernarfon station provides much-improved passenger facilities. The building is designed to fit in with the spectacular surroundings, and is promoted by the railway as “a fitting gateway into the heart of the Snowdonia National Park”.

The Railway, which celebrated its platinum jubilee earlier this year, has created the steam train ride as a magical, dragon-themed adventure, which is inspired by the legendary Welsh Red Dragon.

After leaving Caernarfon station, which is adjacent to the historic Caernarfon Castle, the train will travel through the breathtaking landscapes and dramatic mountain views of Snowdonia.

Before the journey begins, young passengers will be given a special activity pack and will have the chance to take photos with the locomotive.

On board the train, passengers will be able to relax in dragon-themed carriages. There will be fun activities which families can complete while the train winds its way to Rhyd Ddu, which is the railway’s highest station.

Hot, cold and alcoholic drinks and snacks will be available from the Buffet Carriage, and there is a toilet available on board for passenger use.

The train will stop at Rhyd Ddu for half an hour, giving passengers the opportunity to explore, stretch their legs, and search for hidden dragons!

The train will return to Caernarfon after a trip lasting around three hours.

When the train gets back to Caernarfon, children will be able to exchange their completed sheets for a dragon sticker. The railway also hopes that passengers will browse its gift shop’s themed souvenirs.

More information and tickets are available from the event’s web page.