Llangollen and Corwen Railway is putting the final touches to its new pop-up pub, which will open between April 10 and 12 as part of the much-anticipated Branch Line Gala.
Christened “The Beyer’s Arms” after legendary Victorian railway locomotive engineer, philanthropist and early LGBTQ icon Charles Beyer, the pub will be located on Llangollen station and serve a range of award-winning draught Welsh beers.
Beyer, founder of the famous locomotive builder Beyer-Peacock in Manchester, also built and lived in the local landmark Llantysilio Hall, and 2026 marks the 150th anniversary of his birth.
The railway plans to recognise Beyer again on Tuesday, June 2, with a special event to celebrate his life and legacy.
Adding to the unique atmosphere, railway carriages will be positioned on Platform 1, offering punters the chance to enjoy their drinks in beautifully restored heritage surroundings. These carriages will provide the perfect private booth setting for friends and groups looking for something a little different.
Porthmadog-based brewery Purple Moose will be providing a traditional pub line-up of one light, one heavy and one dark beer - Ysgawen (with a hint of elderflower), Snowdonia Ale and Dark Side of the Moose - all popular with beer lovers across the country.
Mold-based Hafod Brewing Co will also be supplying their refreshing Helles Lager and hoppy Sunrise IPA on draft. Bottled beers from both breweries will complete a varied and appealing range for visitors to enjoy, alongside wines and soft drinks.
Railway cafés at Berwyn, Glyndyfrdwy and Corwen stations will be open throughout the weekend, along with the popular “Porter’s Bar” at Glyndyfrdwy, located in a converted parcels van with a raised outdoor terrace offering views of passing trains.
Gala organiser Iain Ross said: “We are really looking forward to putting the railway at the centre of the community this weekend. As well as the great line-up of trains and visiting engines, we have the Beyer Arms on Llangollen Station serving some of our favourite beers.
"No Gala Ticket? No problem - the Beyer Arms is open to everyone from 6pm, with free entry on Friday night and just £5 on Saturday evening. Gala Ticket holders can enjoy both nights at no extra cost.
“We also have some brilliant live music on Saturday night from local singer, folk superstar Chris Greve and his friends, and we invite everyone in town to come and enjoy a pint, some great music and our wonderful station’s atmosphere.”
The Saturday evening will see Chris Greve and friends bring a lively mix of folk and acoustic music to Llangollen Station, adding to the festival atmosphere across the Gala weekend.
The announcement is the latest in a series of developments for the Branch Line Gala, widely regarded as the railway’s key event of the year, showcasing the very best of its heritage operations, rolling stock and visitor experience. Over three days, the line will come alive with intensive timetables, freight demonstrations, live music, vintage vehicles and a wide range of catering and attractions across stations along the Dee Valley.
The Gala will feature an impressive and authentic Great Western themed locomotive line-up, combining visiting guest engines and home fleet favourites. Visitors can look forward to the appearance of rare GWR Pannier Tank No. 1369, making its first-ever visit to the railway, and the welcome return of Small Prairie No. 4555 to the Dee Valley for the first time in more than six decades.
They will join the railway’s own much-loved locomotives, including resident Pannier Tank No. 7754 and powerful freight locomotive No. 3802, alongside Class 14 diesel D9525, which will be making its final appearances at Llangollen. Ticketholders will also have the opportunity to travel in freight brake vans, as well as book a limited number of footplate rides, with the final remaining places expected to sell out before the event.
James Veal, Llangollen Railway’s Special Events Manager, said: “This weekend is going to be brilliant and represents a return to putting the railway at the heart of the community. Later this month we will also relaunch our Real Ale Trains as ‘Ales of Wales’, offering an impressive range of Welsh beers alongside live music and an evening journey through the Dee Valley.”
* Tickets for the Branch Line Gala and associated events are on sale now - https://llan.hops.org.uk/tickets/branchline-gala
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