The boredom can be removed from this train journey by simply taking a look around you. The Snowdon Mountain Railway has long been labelled as one of the most scenic railway routes in the UK, as it transports tourists from Llanberis - a village in Snowdonia's National Park - to the jaw-dropping Snowdonia summit. The 4.7 mile, 2.5 hour, journey is not for the faint-hearted, however, as it achieves a 1,085 metre incline on its way up.
And as you can imagine, the railway itself is not a modern structure, but an historic one. It has been operating since 1896, having been designed in Switzerland the year prior. Tipped as a "journey like no other", the idea of a railway to the summit was first proposed decades earlier, in 1869 by Sir Richard Moon, who was chairman of the London and North Western Railway.
There was some initial objection to its construction over fears it would spoil the scenery. But work began in 1894, with 150 workers putting it together in a remarkable 14 months. The Snowdon Mountain Railway co said: "As the train travels up the mountain, you’ll experience awe-inspiring views and uncover the mountain’s hidden secrets, from viaducts, waterfalls and gorges to the remnants of abandoned farms, chapels and medieval settlements.".
Passengers are treated to their first stunning view not long after they set off. The Ceunant Mawr waterfall, also known as Llanberis Falls, plunges in two stages into a wooded gorge. The journey continues to snake through rural countryside scenery, before a stop at Halfway Station where the train refuels and passengers can get off, stretch their legs, and pick up any refreshments at the nearby cafe.
