Cyfarthfa Park Minature Railway
The railway has been operating in Cyfarthfa Park since 1987, by the Merthyr Tydfil and District Model Engineering Society. The organisation is a non-profit organisation affiliated to the Southern Federation of Model Engineering Societies.
The raised track is approximately 800 feet long and with dual gauges, 5" and 3 1/2". It is constructed from mild steel 10mm square section, with mild steel sleepers. The minimum radius is 40ft.
The tunnel is approximately 90ft long, and has emergency lighting fitted.
A loaded passenger train traverses the viaduct, with Cyfarthfa Lake in the backround
The steaming bays are where locomotives are 'fired' up using 12volt fan blowers. The area is raised to waist height to facilitate the oiling, cleaning and watering of the Locomotives prior to their running duty.
The track is fully signalled, via a tailor made signal system, powered by 12v d.c.
The railway is situated in the idyllic surroundings of Cyfarthfa Park. 'Castle Halt' is located in the Castle courtyard, and the miniature railway passes the play area, paddling pool, lake, bandstand and Castle.
A B1 Class Locomotive 'Springbok' enters the Castle Halt.
The majority of the Locomotives are privately built, owned and maintained by the Society Members. The Society owns two Locomotives, a Class 52 'Western' 5" diesel hydraulic and a Polly '5' steam locomotive. Both locomotives are a result of successful applications to the Heritage Lottery Fund, 'Awards for All'.
Brief History Of Cyfarthfa Castle.
Built in 1824, Cyfarthfa Castle is an impressive monument to the Industrial Revolution. Once a Regency mansion, it now houses a magnificent museum and art gallery. The basement atmospherically recalls over 3,000 years of history in this important Welsh town, whilst the restored upper floors are a grand setting for the art displays and the eclectic collections from the ancient world.
The castle is set in 160 acres of parkland containing formal gardens, sweeping lawns, a lake, children's play facilities, a miniature passenger railway and much more. The castle and park are situated on the edge of the Brecon Beacons National Park and make a great day out.
Enjoy a tripEnjoy a trip on the Miniature Steam Railway. Departing from Castle Halt, making its way through the tunnel, over the viaduct, on its way to the banks of the lake, returning through the cutting to the forecourt of the Castle. on the Miniature Steam Railway. Departing from Castle HaltEnjoy a trip on the Miniature Steam Railway. Departing from Castle Halt, making its way through the tunnel, over the viaduct, on its way to the banks of the lake, returning through the cutting to the forecourt of the Castle., making its way through the tunnel, over the viaduct, on its way to the banks of the lake, returning through the cutting to the forecourt of the Castle.