The Ffestiniog Railway operates on a seasonal schedule.

How steep is the road?

The road includes significant inclines through the Moelwyn mountains.

Can I take a dog on the train?

Yes, dogs are allowed on the Ffestiniog Railway for a small fee.

Are there buses between the towns?

Yes, local bus services operate, but the train is the preferred tourist route.

Is Blaenau Ffestiniog cold?

Being in the mountains, it is often cooler than the coast.

Porthmadog

Blaenau Ffestiniog

Train Driving

Porthmadog to Blaenau Ffestiniog

Updated: 30 May 2026

The journey from Porthmadog to Blaenau Ffestiniog is best experienced via the Ffestiniog Railway, a world-famous narrow-gauge heritage line. Covering 20 km, this route climbs through the heart of Snowdonia, passing forests and waterfalls. Alternatively, the A487 and A470 roads provide a direct driving route. The train journey is a major tourist attraction, while the road route is used for daily commuting. Both options offer spectacular views of the Welsh landscape.

Total Distance: 20 km driving distance, 18 km air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving takes 30 minutes, significantly faster than the heritage train.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the cheapest option at roughly 5-8 GBP in fuel.

Compare Porthmadog to Blaenau Ffestiniog Routes

	Train Direct	Driving Direct
Duration	1 hour 20 mins	30 mins
Avg Price	20-30 GBP	5-8 GBP fuel
Operator	Ffestiniog Railway	N/A
Route	Harbour Station to Blaenau Ffestiniog	A487 and A470
Tip	Book tickets in advance during peak summer months.	The road is steep and winding; use low gears.

Travel Tips

Train Booking
Always check the Ffestiniog Railway website for seasonal timetable changes.
Photography
The train route offers unique photo opportunities; sit on the right side for the best views.
Footwear
Wear sturdy shoes if you plan to explore the slate quarries.
Local Food
Try the local Welsh cakes at the cafes in Blaenau Ffestiniog.
Connectivity
Mobile signal can be weak in the mountain passes; download offline maps.