Brecon Mountain Railway marked 45 years since its first public passenger service with a weekend celebrating steam, engineering and the vision that rebuilt part of this historic railway route.

The first public service ran on 8 June 1980, when founder Tony Hills brought his long-planned heritage railway to life between Pant and Pontsticill. The line later extended north towards Torpantau, taking passengers through woodland and past the reservoirs on the southern edge of Bannau Brycheiniog.

The 45th anniversary weekend

On 7 and 8 June 2025, the railway celebrated the milestone with its first double-headed passenger trains using both Baldwin steam locomotives. Visiting quarry Hunslet locomotive Margaret came from the Vale of Rheidol Railway for yard-driving experiences.

Visitors also saw workshop projects including the new-build Forney locomotive and the TU7 diesel, while Pendyffryn — the De Winton vertical-boiler locomotive restored by Tony Hills — returned to Merthyr for the occasion.

Explore the railway today

The anniversary belongs to the railway's history, but steam journeys and special events continue. Read the Brecon Mountain Railway story, then use the official website for the current timetable, journey options and booking information.