The Great Orme Tramway in Llandudno opened over a century ago in 1902 and is the only cable-hauled road tramway in Britain! It’s a unique experience that’s not to be missed when exploring North Wales.
In this post, Miss Nicklin (who joined me on the trip) has also shared some of her photos.
We joined the tram at Victoria Station which is located near the sea front on Church Walks. It’s open everyday from late March to October with a standard adult return ticket currently costing £7.50.
The tram makes a relatively steep climb to the halfway station, initially passing The King’s Head pub. As we glided through narrow residential streets, the pretty holiday cottages and gardens emerged like scenes from a pop up book.
At the halfway station you can learn all about the Tramway’s history, before or after joining the next leg to the summit.
At the summit, the view opens up across the Irish Sea backed by the rolling Welsh hills. On a clear day it’s possible to see across to the Lake District in England and the Isle of Man.
The Summit Complex is actually a pleasant place to spend a few hours with family – I was surprised to discover there’s a café, gift shop, park and mini golf course up here.
The skies were quite hazy so we weren’t able to see far, but the spring sunshine was not taken for granted in this typically wet part of Britain. During our visit the trams were departing every 20 minutes, around the time a journey from base to summit will take (or vice versa).
The tram interior appears unchanged from the time of their creation, apart from a fresh lick of paint and varnish. The design is simple with back-to-back wooden benches and space to accommodate up to two foldable wheel or push chairs.
We really enjoyed our experience onboard the Great Orme Tramway and liked the facilities available at the summit.
The view down to Llandudno sea front
For more information about The Great Orme Tramway, visit their website by clicking here.
There’s actually plenty to see and do in and around Llandudno like Conwy Castle, and you can explore all of your options over on the local tourism website by clicking here.If you are looking for somewhere to stay, check out my review of Bodysgallen Hall & Spa.
All information deemed correct at the time of posting.