I took one of the most iconic steam train journeys in North Wales but I'd never do it again
This was the case for me on my final day of a Welsh getaway when I found myself aboard the Llangollen Railway - a Heritage Railway Line.
The journey commences in the quaint town of Llangollen and covers 10 miles through the scenic Dee Valley to Corwen.
The initial thrill of boarding an authentic steam train with enclosed carriages, reminiscent of those featured in the Harry Potter films, was indeed enjoyable. However, that's where the magic ended for me.
For railway aficionados, the two-hour round trip through the verdant Denbighshire countryside would likely be a thrilling adventure.
Many passengers, myself included, couldn't resist leaning out of the pull-down windows to watch the steam train power forward, leaving a trail of smoke in its wake.
However, as we approached a tunnel, we were advised to close all windows to prevent the black smog from infiltrating the carriages.
While the journey was certainly more agreeable than a ride on the London tube, it didn't feel too dissimilar, in my view, to a standard train journey from London to the North.
Upon alighting at Corwen station (before our return trip to Llangollen), I observed that the platform was adorned with retro adverts from the 1950s, which was a nice touch.
We ventured into the nearby high street, albeit with some apprehension about our impending return journey. Seeking a snack, we made our way to the highly recommended Yum Yums cafe.
Having chosen scones, clotted cream, and jam accompanied by a cup of coffee, I was relishing my afternoon tea at an outdoor table of the café when my gaze was drawn to the window behind me.
Much to my revulsion, a fly killer machine was installed at the window, filled with electrocuted flies within my line of sight.
Feeling rather put-off, we decided to head back to the heritage train and journeyed back to our original boarding point.
In all honesty, it felt as though I had just forked out £23.50 to ride a commuter train to a rather uninspiring part of town that seems to exist solely due to unsuspecting tourists who find themselves there.
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