Following customer feedback, the Llangollen and Corwen Railway is introducing a fresh new format to its popular Afternoon Tea on the Dee experience.

Under this new arrangement, all guests are automatically assigned their own dedicated table, eliminating shared seating and offering a more private and comfortable experience.

The heritage railway will also operate two afternoon tea services on running days: a 12:20 pm departure returning at 2:30 pm, and a 3:15 pm departure returning at 5:04 pm. A special Mother’s Day service is also scheduled.

Afternoon Tea on the Dee includes a full return journey between Llangollen and Corwen, paired with a traditional afternoon tea served in a heritage carriage. Guests can enjoy freshly prepared sandwiches, fruit scones with jam and clotted cream, cakes and other sweet treats, accompanied by tea or coffee, with the option to upgrade to sparkling wine.

These changes are part of the railway’s wider efforts to enhance the visitor experience while increasing revenue from existing services, supporting ongoing investment in infrastructure, rolling stock and visitor facilities.

Demand remains strong ahead of the first run on 25 April, with the 12:20 pm service already sold out and only limited availability remaining on the later departure. Visitors are advised to book ahead for the one-of-a-kind afternoon tea experience in the Dee Valley.

“We have spent time reviewing guest feedback and discussing how we can improve the overall experience. Sharing tables can sometimes feel awkward for guests who don’t know each other, and it also creates practical challenges when serving food, particularly where dietary requirements or allergens are involved.

“By moving to fully private tables and introducing a second sitting, we can deliver a more relaxed, comfortable and premium experience for everyone, while also increasing capacity in a sensible and manageable way. It’s a positive step for our customers and for the railway.”

Jordan Edge, Catering Supervisor at the Llangollen and Corwen Railway.