The Llangollen and Corwen Railway will be hosting a behind-the-scenes Open Day, focused on traditional railway upholstery, on Saturday, 9 May at its Pentrefelin Depot, off Abbey Road, Llangollen.

The event will offer visitors the opportunity to observe and learn about the techniques used to restore and maintain historic carriage interiors. Skilled upholsterers from the railway will demonstrate processes ranging from the use of specialist materials to established restoration methods, providing insight into a less visible but essential aspect of heritage railway operations.

Visitors will see how original seat patterns are preserved and how carriage seating is stripped, repaired, and rebuilt using traditional craftsmanship to maintain historical accuracy across the fleet.

A central feature of the day will be demonstrations involving moquette, the durable woven fabric widely associated with public transport seating. First introduced in the early 20th century and notably adopted on London Underground services in the 1930s, moquette is recognised for its resilience and distinctive patterned designs.

The event also marks the launch of a new upholstery volunteer group, intended to support the development of specialist skills within the railway’s restoration programme.

Two sessions are available to book, running from 10 am to 12 pm or 2 pm to 4 pm. Places are limited to 12 participants, with six allocated per session, and must be booked in advance by emailing [email protected].

“This is a fantastic opportunity for people to see a side of the railway that many don’t realise exists. Upholstery is a vital part of our restoration work, and our team take great pride in maintaining the look and feel of our historic carriages. We’re also really excited to be launching a new group focused on upholstery projects, giving more people the chance to get involved and learn these valuable skills.”

Robin Crowley, Volunteer Co-ordinator and Trainee Upholsterer at the railway.