VISITORS to the Llangollen and Corwen Railway’s Classic Transport Weekend on Saturday 4 and Sunday 5 July will be treated to an extraordinary collection of rare and historic vehicles, with organisers unveiling some of this year’s star attractions ahead of what promises to be a huge event.
Close to 400 vehicles are expected to attend the two-day event at Glyndyfrdwy Station, making it one of the largest gatherings of classic transport ever staged in North Wales. There will be marquees, a bar, quality food as well as hundreds of classic vehicles.
Among this year’s highlights are two rare Bedford RLHZ “Green Goddess” Fire Engines, instantly recognisable from their role during the Cold War when they formed part of Britain’s emergency reserve fleet. They will be joined by an ex-military armoured Land Rover, a beautifully preserved Ford 15cwt military truck and an imposing American-built M925 military vehicle.
Classic bus enthusiasts will have the chance to admire one of Britain’s most iconic vehicles, the legendary AEC Routemaster, alongside a superb collection of preserved Leyland buses including the Tiger Cub, Atlantean and National, representing the golden age of public transport.
The car displays are equally impressive, featuring a genuine Ford Escort Mexico, two highly sought-after Ford Capri 280 “Brooklands” models, several stunning Jaguar E-Types, a Jaguar XK150, a modern Jaguar XKRS, multiple Austin Healey 3000 sports cars and elegant Rolls-Royce Silver Spur and Silver Shadow saloons.
Heavy commercial vehicles will also feature strongly, including the impressive Foden STG5 heavy lorry, alongside vintage tractors, motorcycles, vans and hundreds of additional classic vehicles, creating one of the most diverse heritage transport displays ever assembled in Wales.
Event organiser Tim Hines said, “Every vehicle tells its own story and that’s what makes Classic Transport Weekend so special. Whether it’s a famous London Routemaster, a Green Goddess Fire Engine that formed part of Britain’s Cold War emergency fleet, an iconic Escort Mexico or a beautifully restored Jaguar E-Type, every exhibit has been lovingly preserved by its owner.
“We’ve been overwhelmed by the response from exhibitors this year. The quality and variety of vehicles coming to Glyndyfrdwy is exceptional and there really is something for everyone, whether you’re a lifelong enthusiast or simply looking for a fantastic family day out.”
Co-organiser George Walker added, “One of the joys of Classic Transport Weekend is that no two exhibits are the same. This year we’ve got everything from iconic British sports cars and historic military vehicles to beautifully restored buses, fire engines and commercial vehicles that many people will remember from their childhood.
“Owners travel from across the UK because they know they’ll be among fellow enthusiasts who appreciate the time, skill and dedication that goes into preserving these wonderful machines. There is simply nowhere else in the world where you will see this unique combination of classic cars, military vehicles, buses, commercial vehicles, steam locomotives, heritage diesel locomotives and vintage railcars all brought together in one place.
“We’re incredibly proud that Glyndyfrdwy becomes the centre of the classic transport world for one weekend each year. It’s a remarkable achievement by our volunteers, exhibitors and local supporters, and we can’t wait to welcome thousands of visitors to what promises to be our biggest and most memorable Classic Transport Weekend yet.”
The best way to experience the event is by heritage railway, with an intensive timetable of steam locomotives, heritage diesel locomotives and railcars operating throughout the weekend to Glyndyfrdwy Station, which sits at the very heart of the rally.
Visitors can enjoy refreshments in Glyndyfrdwy Station Tearoom, relax in Porter’s Bar overlooking the platform, explore the station museum, or make use of the nearby Nant y Pandy picnic field and playground. A free vintage bus service will operate approximately every 30 minutes between Corwen and Glyndyfrdwy throughout both days.
On Saturday evening, the celebrations continue with the railway’s popular Party in the Park, featuring a special performance by the internationally acclaimed Froncysyllte Male Voice Choir in a picturesque field beside Glyndyfrdwy Station. The concert is free for Classic Transport Weekend ticket holders, with standalone tickets available for just £5.
Classic Transport Weekend tickets include unlimited travel on the railway throughout the event. Entry to the vehicle rally is £5 for adults, while children are admitted free. Parking at Glyndyfrdwy is free, although spaces are limited, and visitors are encouraged to travel by train or bus wherever possible.
For more information and tickets, visit: https://llangollen-railway.co.uk/classic-transport-weekend/
