Geograph - photograph every grid square

The Welshpool and Llanfair Light Railway was first opened in 1903, using an unusual 2ft 6 in gauge, providing a service for passengers and goods between Welshpool, where it connected to the Cambrian Railways main line, and Llanfair Caereinion about nine miles away. The first section of the line passed through the streets of Welshpool. This was never an industrial area and the principal traffic was always livestock and other agricultural supplies and products. Hopelessly unprofitable, the passenger service was discontinued by the Great Western Railway in 1931 although freight trains continued to run until 1956, well into the British Railways era. Almost immediately after closure a preservation society was formed and the stretch between Llanfair Caereinion and Castle Caereinion reopened in 1963, extending to Sylfaen in 1972 and eventually a new terminus in Welshpool in 1981. Reopening through the town streets to Welshpool station was considered to be impractical. Although the railway undoubtedly lacks the high profile of the narrow gauge lines further west, which enjoy the advantage of more spectacular scenery and can readily tap into the local holiday market, it has a charm of its own and is well worth a visit. See Link for more information.