TAKE A LOOK AT SOME OF THE MOST FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT OUR VINTAGE TRAIN RIDES
What can we see?
The trip runs into the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park, through Pontsticill Station and alongside the Taf Fechan Reservoir to Dolygaer before climbing to Torpantau, high in the Brecon Beacons. This is the summit of the original line. You will get views up the valley towards the mountains, including Pen-y-fan which is Wales highest mountain at 886m.
Along the way you will run through wooded areas, and during the summer season the lush vegetation can obscure some views!
Do we go up a Mountain or to Brecon?
No! The founder of the railway, Tony, decided on the name due to the railway going into the Brecon Beacons and climbing up to 1313ft (400m) where you can clearly see the mountains beyond.
What time should we arrive?
Please arrive 30 minutes prior to your train time as you will need to get your tickets from the ticket office, even if you have pre-booked. Currently there are major roadworks around the railway (A465) so we recommend adding 20mins to your journey planning.
How long does the trip last?
The return trip last approx. 1 hour and 30 minutes. This includes a 25 minutes stop by Pontsticill station where you can enjoy some refreshments at the Lakeside Cafe, get up close to the loco, or just enjoy the views whilst the younger folk play in the playground!
Are all dogs allowed to travel on the train?
Yes all dogs are welcome to travel for a small fee. Please note that during our Santa Special trains only Assistance dogs are permitted .
Are you Wheelchair accessible?
Yes we have a carriage that can carry manual wheelchairs accessed via a ramp. Please note that due to weight and width restrictions, we are unable to carry motorised wheelchairs and scooters. There is limited availability per train so prebooking is recommended to avoid disappointment.
Are there discounts for Carers?
A discount is offered for carers travelling, for more information please contact us on 01685 722988.
Can I purchase tickets at the station on the day?
Tickets are available to purchase from the Booking Office on arrival at Pant Station. However, booking online is highly advised during our high season to avoid disappointment as we frequently fill our trains hours before departure time.
If I book online, will I receive my ticket in the post?
We don’t send the tickets, they are collected on your day of travel. When you book online, you will receive an email confirmation and ticket ID no. which you will need to quote to the booking office on arrival to receive your tickets.
Is there free parking at Pant Station?
Yes we have a large free car/coach park at Pant Station. Large motor homes are also welcome.
Do you have disabled parking?
We have a few disabled parking bays, but if they are already in use you can get close to the station to drop off any passengers before returning to the main parking area.
Are there toilets on the train?
There are no toilets on the train itself. We have facilities in both Pant and Pontsticill Stations – which include disabled toilets and baby changing facilities.
Does the train have a Buffet Car?
We don’t have a buffet bar on the train but our Tearooms at Pant Station are open from 10.00am until 3.30 pm where you can have a light lunch, snacks, cakes and drinks. At Pontsticill Station we also have a Lakeside Café serving snacks, drinks and ice-cream all day.
Afternoon/cream teas are available, but must be ordered in advance (48 hours) by calling 01685 722988 or email enquiries@bmr.wales
What are the carriages like?
The carriages are enclosed, but not heated, so in the cooler times of the year come wrapped up warm. Each carriage has windows throughout and also a balcony at either end where you are able to step outside to take in the views, great for smelling the steam!. The train is ‘narrow gauge’ so the seating is quite close together, the seats are wooden and not padded (part of the experience)!
Can you take Push Chairs/buggies/Prams on board?
You can bring them on the normal season, where you will have to place it closed/folded by the balcony, however please note that on Christmas special days we will require you to leave the pushchair at the station.
Can you stay longer at Torpantau or Pontsticill Station?
You are welcome to stay longer at either station to take in the scenery or go for walks – returning on a later train. If travelling on the last train of the day however, you will not have this option. Please purchase two single tickets to ensure room is allocated on both trains.
Do you have a Gift Shop?
Yes at Pant Station we have a lovely Gift Shop that stocks lots of Brecon Mountain Railway souvenirs and gifts to take away to remember your visit.
Are dogs allowed in the café areas?
Only Assistance dogs are permitted in both cafes at Pant and Pontsticill and also the Gift Shop. However, we do have one table available at Pant Tea rooms where we allow dogs. At Pant Station we have an indoor and outdoor picnic area where you are able to sit with your pet, enjoying either a picnic or takeaway from the Tearooms. At Pontsticill Station we also have a large outdoor picnic area.