The Llangollen and Corwen Railway will celebrate Armed Forces Day on Saturday, 27th June 2026, by offering discounted travel to former serving veterans.

The celebration of Armed Forces Day at the Welsh Standard Gauge Heritage Railway has become a staple fixture in the calendar.

Each year, the Armed Forces Day flag, which was donated to the railway by lifelong volunteer and steam engine driver Lieutenant Colonel Huw Parker, is flown at the event, reminding everyone of the importance of those who have served and continue to serve in defending their country and its security in times of conflict.

Last weekend, 89-year-old Major Brian Harper visited the railway with his family on Father’s Day. Major Harper was once a fireman on the Ruabon to Barmouth line, which the Llangollen and Corwen Railway was once part of. Following his time on the footplate, Brian joined the Army in 1955 and served for 47 years on active service.

“It was a true honour to have met Brian just a week before Armed Services Day, he really is an inspirational fellow. His story perfectly illustrates why Heritage Railways like the Llangollen & Corwen Railway matter. They are not simply about locomotives, stations and infrastructure; they are about people, memories and the extraordinary lives that have intersected with our railway over generations. We can’t wait to welcome more inspirational folk from our armed services on Saturday along with their families and hope that they enjoy their day with us”.

David Hennigan, Trust Manager at the Railway

“There has always been a strong connection between Britain’s railways and the Armed Forces. From transporting troops and supplies during times of conflict to supporting national resilience in times of peace, railways have played a vital role in our nation’s history. Equally, many veterans have gone on to make significant contributions to the railway industry, bringing with them invaluable skills, leadership and experience. The Armed Forces Day flag is a fitting symbol of our appreciation for the service and sacrifice made by military personnel past and present.

Lieutenant Colonel Huw Parker

The Llangollen and Corwen Railway offers a year-round 10% discount to serving and retired personnel for travel on the railway’s heritage services upon production of a valid identification card or Veterans card. The railway also has a handful of veterans who now volunteer on the railway.

This year, Veterans Day falls on Saturday, 27th June, and with the continuation of hot and dry weather, the railway will be running an amended service using a heritage diesel.