Prize Draw

Win a Steam Train Break for Two in North Wales & Snowdonia

Experience the magic of heritage steam railways and breathtaking Welsh landscapes with this exclusive prize draw for Rest Less and Silversurfers members from Ffestiniog Travel, independent specialists in rail holidays.

We are offering one lucky winner the chance to enjoy a 4-day mid-week break for two people in North Wales, combining classic steam train journeys, quality hospitality, and time to explore one of the UK’s most beautiful regions.

The Prize at a Glance

  • A 3-night mid-week stay for two adults at the 4* Royal Sportsman Hotel, Porthmadog
  • Half-board accommodation, including breakfast and dinner
  • Gold Class return journeys on both:
    • The Welsh Highland Railway from Porthmadog to Caernarfon (with afternoon tea or picnic hamper)
    • The Ffestiniog Railway from Porthmadog to Blaenau Ffestiniog aboard the Mountain Spirit steam train (with afternoon tea or picnic hamper)
  • Free time to explore the local area, with the option to visit the iconic village of Portmeirion independently

An Unforgettable Steam Railway Experience

Welsh Highland Railway – The Harbourmaster Steam Train

Journey from the old slate quays beside the harbour in Porthmadog and travel inland across the floodplain and meadows of Traeth Mawr (Big Estuary), through the Aberglaslyn Pass and Beddgelert village, before climbing the forested hillside to the foothills of Yr Wyddfa/Snowdon. Passing the summit of the line (‘Y Copa’ in Welsh) the train starts its descent towards the harbour and quayside at Caernarfon – passing small hill farms, running alongside Llyn (Lake) Cwellyn and following the Afon/River Gwyrfai to reach its destination, the Welsh Highland Railway’s impressive station building beside Caernarfon Castle. Each section has a fascinating story and your journey is much enhanced by a Traveller’s Guide with its open out map and line guide to enable you to follow the route.

Ffestiniog Railway – The Mountain Spirit Steam Train

Your journey will deliver scenery that continually changes as the train crosses the estuary along the Cob embankment before climbing up the valley, through pastures and villages, then entering the ancient wooded slopes of the valley side. Shortly after picturesque Tan-y-Bwlch station, the train leaves the trees behind as it clings to the valley side. After rounding the spiral at Dduallt and passing through the tunnel, the train emerges beside Llyn Ystradau reservoir and the slate tips beckon. Each section has its fascinating story and your complimentary Traveller’s Guide with map and line guide will enable you to follow the route. The Ffestiniog Railway is the world’s oldest narrow-gauge railway, while the Welsh Highland Railway offers one of the most scenic rail journeys in Britain, passing the foot of Mount Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa).

Your Accommodation

The Royal Sportsman Hotel in Porthmadog is a charming, independently owned 4-star hotel perfectly situated at the gateway to Snowdonia National Park and the Llŷn Peninsula, making it an ideal base for exploring North Wales’s stunning scenery. With 28 comfortable en-suite rooms, warm Welsh hospitality, and a welcoming atmosphere, the hotel combines traditional character with modern comforts, including free Wi-Fi, private parking, and thoughtful guest services. On-site, you will find a family-friendly restaurant and bar serving high-quality, locally inspired cuisine, and you are just a short walk from the heritage Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railway terminal - perfect for beginning your steam train adventures. With half-board included, you can enjoy relaxed evenings dining at the hotel after days spent sightseeing and travelling by steam train.

How to Enter

Simply complete the prize draw entry form on the Rest Less website before the closing date. By entering, you will also have the option to subscribe to additional promotional information from Ffestiniog Travel (optional).

Important Prize Information

  • Prize is for 2 adults
  • Travel must be taken outside school holidays
  • Prize must be booked at least 6 weeks in advance
  • Travel must be completed before 30 October 2026
  • Subject to railway operating dates and availability

Prize Draw Terms & Conditions

Prize Provider

Ffestiniog Railway Holdings Ltd trading as Ffestiniog Travel
Company No. 2555576
Registered Office: Former St Mary’s Church, Tremadog, Porthmadog, Gwynedd, LL49 9RA

Key Terms

  • The prize includes a 3-night half-board stay at the Royal Sportsman Hotel and Gold Class return journeys on the Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways, including afternoon tea on both journeys.
  • The closing date for entries is 28 February 2026. Entries received after this date will not be accepted.
  • The prize is non-transferable and there is no cash alternative.
  • The prize is subject to availability and may be substituted with an alternative of equal value if necessary.
  • By entering, entrants agree to be bound by these terms and conditions.
  • The prize draw is governed by English and Welsh law, and any disputes will be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of England and Wales.
  • If you opt to receive further information, your data will be held by Ffestiniog Travel in accordance with their Privacy Policy: https://www.ffestiniogtravel.com/information/privacy-policy

Pharos

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