Ticket sales success leads to new merchandise offering as heritage line strengthens ties with town centre tourism hub
THE LLANGOLLEN and Corwen Railway has announced the expansion of its successful partnership with Llangollen Tourist Information Centre, following strong demand for tickets sold in the town centre.
Since launching ticket sales at the Castle Street centre in partnership with Go North Wales, the initiative has proved highly popular with visitors, making it easier for tourists to plan trips to one of North Wales’ most popular heritage attractions.
Building on that success, the railway has now confirmed that from this week visitors will also be able to purchase official railway merchandise directly from the Tourist Information Centre.
Items available will include branded gifts such as teddy bears, tote bags, key rings, cups and cushions, giving visitors the opportunity to both book their journey and take home a souvenir of their visit in one place.
Railway Trust Manager David Hennigan said the partnership had already delivered clear benefits for visitors and the town.
“The success of selling tickets through the Tourist Information Centre has been fantastic,” he said. “It has made a real difference in helping visitors access the railway more easily, right from the centre of our town.”
He added that the TIC plays a vital role in supporting tourism across the wider region.
“The TIC is such a brilliant asset to Llangollen. It plays a vital role in welcoming visitors and promoting everything the town, the Dee Valley and the wider region have to offer,” he said.
“It’s been a pleasure to work alongside Denise, Barbara and the whole team, who do an outstanding job every day. We are proud to support them and strengthen this partnership even further.”
He said the addition of merchandise would further enhance the visitor experience.
“By expanding into merchandise, we’re creating an even better experience for visitors, giving them the chance not only to plan their journey, but also to take a piece of the railway home with them.”
Over the coming months, the railway says it will continue to expand partnerships with tourist attractions across North Wales as part of a wider drive to promote Llangollen and the surrounding Dee Valley as a year-round destination, supporting the town’s bid for Town of Culture.
Several collaborations have already been announced, including the Llangollen Garden Railway Festival, the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod and Wales Comic Con.
The railway is also highlighting Welsh produce through its “Ales from Wales” Real Ale Trains, which launch on April 25, featuring beers such as Hafod and Purple Moose, alongside live music in the “James Veal” Station Master’s Marquees at Llangollen station.
In addition, the railway café is now stocking predominantly Welsh produce, including Mario’s Luxury Ice Cream, as part of its wider commitment to supporting local suppliers.
The organisation says the ambition is to play a leading role in supporting Welsh businesses while giving visitors an authentic taste of the region.
Further information is available at www.llangollen-railway.co.uk, or by visiting Llangollen Tourist Information Centre.
