The Garw Valley Railway, operating under the Bridgend Valleys Railway Company Limited, is dedicated to restoring and preserving the historic Garw Valley branch line in South Wales. Their mission encompasses the restoration, preservation, and display of railway locomotives, carriages, wagons, and other artefacts of historical interest, particularly those connected with the Garw Valley.
The railway is open to the public every Wednesday and Saturday, offering visitors the opportunity to observe ongoing volunteer activities such as permanent way repair work and locomotive restoration. While there is no admission fee, donations are appreciated to support the project’s progress.
Throughout the year, the Garw Valley Railway hosts several open days, typically during the late May Bank Holiday, August Bank Holiday, and Christmas. These events showcase the restoration progress at the Pontycymer shed and station, featuring interactive displays of locomotives and rolling stock, a miniature railway, local vendors offering gifts and souvenirs, guided tours, and demonstration locomotive runs.
The railway’s collection includes notable locomotives such as “Pamela,” a Hunslet-built steam engine from 1956, and the Class 108 Diesel Multiple Unit (DMU), consisting of two cars numbered M52048 and M51919. These vehicles are undergoing restoration with the aim of operating passenger services in the future.
For those interested in contributing to the railway’s development, opportunities are available to donate, join, or volunteer. The railway is located at the Old Station Yard, Pontycymer, Bridgend CF32 8AZ. For more detailed information, please visit the Garw Valley Railway’s official website.
