Barmouth Bridge: Wales’ Iconic Timber Railway Viaduct
Experience Wales’ longest timber railway viaduct with stunning estuary views and rich Victorian heritage on Barmouth Bridge.
Barmouth Bridge, also known as Barmouth Viaduct, is a Grade II* listed wooden railway bridge spanning the Mawddach estuary near Barmouth, Wales. At approximately 820–900 meters long, it is the longest timber viaduct in Wales and one of Britain’s oldest still in use. Built between 1864 and 1867, it carries the Cambrian Line and features a pedestrian and cycle path, offering stunning views of Snowdonia and the estuary.
A brief summary to Barmouth Bridge
- Barmouth, LL42 1EQ, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Walk or cycle across the footpath on the bridge for panoramic views of the Mawddach estuary and Snowdonia.
- Visit outside peak tourist season to enjoy a quieter, more tranquil crossing experience.
- Look out for the swing bridge mechanism at the northern end, a rare feature preserved from the original design.
- Time your crossing to coincide with a passing train to feel the bridge’s unique vibrations.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train
Take the Cambrian Line train to Barmouth station, with frequent services from Shrewsbury and Aberystwyth. The station is approximately 1.5 km from the bridge’s southern end, accessible by a short walk. Train fares range from £10 to £25 depending on the origin and ticket type.
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Bus
Local bus services connect Barmouth town center with nearby villages and towns. Bus routes 5 and 6 operate regularly, with journey times from Dolgellau or Pwllheli around 30 to 60 minutes. Tickets typically cost between £3 and £8.
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Car
Driving to Barmouth Bridge is possible with parking available in Barmouth town center, about 1 km from the bridge. Parking fees range from £2 to £5 per day. Note that the bridge itself does not allow vehicle traffic.
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Walking/Cycling
The Mawddach Trail and National Cycle Route 8 provide scenic walking and cycling routes leading to the bridge from surrounding areas. The terrain is mostly flat and suitable for all fitness levels, with distances varying from 3 to 15 km depending on starting point.
Barmouth Bridge location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Barmouth Bridge
Engineering Marvel of the Victorian Era
Barmouth Bridge was designed by civil engineers Benjamin Piercy and Henry Conybeare and constructed between 1864 and 1867 for the Aberystwyth and Welsh Coast Railway. The decision to use timber was driven by cost-effectiveness, as importing Baltic wood was considerably cheaper than building an iron bridge. The viaduct spans about 820 to 900 meters across the Mawddach estuary with 113 wooden spans and originally included a drawbridge section to allow tall ships to pass. This drawbridge was later replaced by steel swing spans in the early 20th century, preserving the navigational function while enhancing durability.A Living Heritage and Vital Transport Link
The bridge carries the Cambrian Line railway between Morfa Mawddach and Barmouth stations, serving as a crucial connection for local communities, facilitating travel for work, school, and commerce. It also incorporates a footpath and cycleway, part of National Cycle Route 8 and the Wales Coast Path, allowing pedestrians and cyclists to cross the estuary with panoramic views of the surrounding Snowdonia National Park. Despite its age, the bridge remains in active use, with ongoing maintenance ensuring safety and operational reliability.Challenges and Restoration Efforts
The timber structure has faced significant challenges over its long life, including damage from marine borers such as teredo worms, which bore into the wooden piles. This led to major repairs and restrictions on locomotive weights in the 1980s. A comprehensive £25 million restoration project began in 2020, focusing on replacing metal spans and decayed timber elements while preserving the bridge’s historic appearance. Innovative construction techniques minimized environmental impact in this sensitive tidal estuary, classified as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).Architectural and Scenic Significance
Barmouth Bridge is a Grade II* listed structure, recognized for its unique timber construction and historical importance. The viaduct’s rhythmic wooden spans and steel sections create a striking visual contrast against the natural beauty of the Mawddach estuary. From the pedestrian path, visitors can enjoy sweeping views of Snowdonia’s mountains and the estuary’s tidal waters, making the crossing both a functional journey and a scenic experience.Cultural and Community Impact
Beyond its engineering significance, Barmouth Bridge holds a special place in local heritage. It has witnessed the evolution of railway travel in Wales and remains a symbol of Victorian ingenuity. The bridge also supports tourism, offering walkers and cyclists a memorable route with breathtaking vistas. Its preservation ensures that this historic link continues to serve residents and visitors alike, maintaining the cultural fabric of the region.Walking and Cycling Experience
The footpath alongside the railway track allows safe passage for pedestrians and cyclists, with a small toll charged to maintain the path. Crossing the bridge, you can feel the structure’s vibrations as trains pass by, adding a tactile dimension to the experience. The route is part of popular trails, including the Mawddach Trail and Lôn Las Cymru, inviting exploration of the surrounding natural landscapes and coastal environments.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Machynlleth Town Clock
19.1 km
Historic Machynlleth Town Clock, a Victorian landmark symbolizing community pride and Welsh heritage in the heart of Penrallt Street.
Cerig y Penrhyn
20.2 km
Explore the enchanting Cerig y Penrhyn, a historical landmark in Wales that showcases the region's rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty.
Snowdonia Adventure Activities
21.1 km
Discover outdoor adventure in Snowdonia with thrilling activities surrounded by stunning landscapes, perfect for all adventure enthusiasts.
Brynellen
22.2 km
Explore Bryn Celli Ddu, a 5,000-year-old Neolithic passage tomb on Anglesey, famed for its ancient burial chamber and summer solstice alignment.
Ynys Cyngar
22.3 km
Historic maritime landmark on the Glaslyn estuary, offering scenic coastal views and a glimpse into North Wales’ slate and shipping heritage.
Aber-marchnad
25.5 km
Historic coastal market site at Criccieth, marked by resilience and scenic views beside the iconic castle ruins.
Plas Brondanw Gardens
26.8 km
Explore the enchanting Plas Brondanw Gardens, a serene garden oasis in Llanfrothen, perfect for nature enthusiasts and those seeking tranquility.
Castell Carndochan
27.3 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Carndochan Castle, a remote 13th-century Welsh fortress nestled in the rugged mountains of Gwynedd.
Coedydd Maentwrog National Nature Reserve
27.8 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity of Coedydd Maentwrog National Nature Reserve in Blaenau Ffestiniog, Wales.
Penarth Fawr
30.0 km
Explore Penarth Fawr, a historical gem in Chwilog, where medieval architecture meets stunning natural beauty. A must-visit for history lovers.
Aberglaslyn - National Trust
30.9 km
Experience the natural beauty of Aberglaslyn, a stunning nature reserve in Snowdonia, perfect for walking, wildlife watching, and photography.
Site of Plaid Cymru’s founding
31.5 km
Historic birthplace of Plaid Cymru, where Welsh nationalism took root in 1925 at Pwllheli’s Y Maes.
Ffestiniog Railway - (Blaenau Festiniog, Station)
31.6 km
Discover the enchanting Ffestiniog Railway, a historic journey through breathtaking landscapes in the heart of Snowdonia National Park.
Bedd Gelert
32.6 km
Discover Bedd Gelert, a picturesque village in Snowdonia National Park, rich in legend and natural beauty, perfect for your Welsh adventure.
Zip World Llechwedd
32.7 km
Experience the ultimate thrill of zip-lining in Snowdonia at Zip World Llechwedd, where adventure meets heritage in breathtaking surroundings.
Unmissable attractions to see
Mawddach Estuary
0.3 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and wildlife richness of Mawddach Estuary, a stunning Welsh coastal gem near Barmouth.
The Last Haul
0.5 km
A powerful marble tribute on Barmouth’s Quay honoring the grit and heritage of its fishermen and maritime community.
Tŷ Crwn
0.6 km
Discover Barmouth’s iconic roundhouse, a historic lock-up turned cultural hub blending maritime heritage with vibrant community life.
Barmouth
1.0 km
Barmouth: A scenic seaside town where the mountains meet the sea, blending heritage, nature, and coastal charm in North Wales.
Barmouth Beach
1.0 km
Discover Barmouth Beach, a scenic and family-friendly Welsh seaside escape with golden sands, stunning sunsets, and charming coastal walks.
Fairbourne Railway
2.5 km
A charming seaside steam railway along the Mawddach Estuary, connecting Fairbourne with the Barmouth Ferry in North Wales.
Fairbourne Beach
2.6 km
A serene sandy beach in North Wales with stunning estuary views, peaceful walks, and easy access for a tranquil coastal escape.
Arthog Waterfalls
2.7 km
Discover the serene cascades of Arthog Waterfalls nestled in the lush landscapes of Snowdonia’s Mawddach Estuary.
The Mawddach Trail
7.1 km
Explore the tranquil, accessible Mawddach Trail along a stunning Welsh estuary, perfect for walking, cycling, and nature lovers.
Tal-y-bont beach
7.2 km
Discover Tal-y-bont Beach, a serene sandy haven on the Welsh coast, perfect for relaxing walks, family fun, and year-round coastal beauty.
Antalya Kebab
8.5 km
Savor authentic Turkish kebabs and grilled delights in the cozy, welcoming setting of Dyffryn Ardudwy’s Antalya Kebab.
Cymer Abbey
10.9 km
Explore the serene ruins of Cymer Abbey, a tranquil 12th-century Cistercian monastery nestled at the meeting of Welsh rivers near Dolgellau.
Rhaeadr Nantcol Waterfalls Walk
11.4 km
Discover the serene beauty of cascading waterfalls and peaceful woodland trails at Rhaeadr Nantcol, a hidden gem in Snowdonia’s heart.
National Trust - Hafod Y Fedw
12.5 km
Secluded 17th-century off-grid cottage nestled in Snowdonia’s wild woodlands, blending rustic charm with tranquil natural beauty.
Coed Crafnant North Wales Wildlife Trust Nature Reserve
13.0 km
Discover ancient oak woodlands and rare plants in the tranquil, biodiverse Coed Crafnant Nature Reserve near Llanbedr, North Wales.
Essential places to dine
The Fanny Talbot
0.7 km
Award-winning gastropub blending modern British cuisine with coastal Welsh charm and comfortable accommodation.
Nineteen.57
7.0 km
Experience family-friendly dining at Nineteen.57 in Islawrffordd Caravan Park – great food, welcoming atmosphere, and delightful drinks await!
Torrent Walk Hotel
11.0 km
Cozy pub and hotel in Dolgellau offering hearty Welsh cuisine, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere near Snowdonia National Park.
Cross Foxes - Bar Grill Rooms
14.6 km
Discover Cross Foxes - Bar Grill Rooms: A delightful culinary experience nestled in Snowdonia's breathtaking landscape.
Salt Marsh Kitchen
14.8 km
Experience the fresh, seasonal flavors of Welsh seafood in a cozy, refined bistro setting at Salt Marsh Kitchen in Tywyn.
Proper Gander
14.9 km
Family-run Modern European seafood restaurant in Tywyn with a warm atmosphere and seasonal Welsh dishes on the Cambrian Coast.
The Plas Restaurant
16.2 km
Savor traditional Welsh flavors with stunning views of Harlech Castle at The Plas Restaurant on Harlech’s High Street.
Caffi Castell Harlech
16.3 km
A cozy café in Harlech’s Castle Square serving fresh Welsh produce daily amid historic charm.
Riverside Hotel Pennal
16.9 km
Charming riverside hotel and restaurant in Pennal offering warm Welsh hospitality, cozy rooms, and delicious local cuisine near Snowdonia National Park.
Y Llew Coch - Mach (The Red Lion Machynlleth Town)
19.1 km
Experience Michelin-quality dining and lively music in the heart of Machynlleth’s welcoming Red Lion pub.
Gwen Restaurant and Wine Bar
19.2 km
An intimate 8-seat fine dining experience in Machynlleth, blending bold flavors and local ingredients with expert wine pairings.
Ynyshir Restaurant and Rooms
20.4 km
Experience Wales’ premier two-Michelin-starred culinary adventure with immersive dining and luxurious rooms in a serene countryside setting.
Castell Deudraeth Brasserie
22.5 km
Historic castle dining with contemporary Welsh cuisine and scenic mountain views in the heart of Portmeirion Village.
Good Mood restaurant
23.5 km
A stylish Italian and burger restaurant offering harbour views and vibrant dining within Porthmadog’s historic Madoc Yacht Club.
Yr Hen Fecws Restaurant and B&B
23.7 km
A cosy bistro and charming B&B in Porthmadog offering fine seasonal dining and warm Welsh hospitality in the heart of Snowdonia.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Set Piece
0.9 km
A charming gift shop in Barmouth offering unique local crafts and souvenirs just steps from the beach.
Wool & Gifts Harlech
16.3 km
Discover authentic Welsh wool crafts and charming gifts in the heart of historic Harlech’s Castle Square.
Seasons & Reasons
16.3 km
Discover the charm of Harlech at Seasons & Reasons, your ultimate DIY store for home improvement and creative projects.
Pwts
16.3 km
Discover unique Welsh gifts and homewares at Pwts, a charming independent shop near Harlech Castle offering artisan treasures and local craftsmanship.
Castle Gift Shop
16.3 km
Discover authentic Welsh gifts and souvenirs at this charming family-run shop opposite historic Harlech Castle.
Ian Snow
19.2 km
Discover ethically sourced vintage Indian furniture and bohemian homewares in a charming family-run shop in the heart of Machynlleth.
Pot Jam
22.0 km
Discover authentic Welsh jams, chutneys, and local treats in the charming pantry shop of Portmeirion’s scenic village.
The Ship Shop
22.1 km
Discover unique gifts and local charm at The Ship Shop, nestled in the enchanting Italianate village of Portmeirion, North Wales.
Bron y Garth Emporium
23.4 km
Discover authentic Welsh craftsmanship and vintage treasures at Bron y Garth Emporium, a charming multi-building homewares shop in Penrhyndeudraeth.
SPAR Penrhyn
23.6 km
Discover SPAR Penrhyn, your convenient shopping destination in Penrhyndeudraeth, offering local favorites and essentials for every traveler.
Cymru Country Store
23.7 km
Discover authentic Welsh gifts and crafts at Cymru Country Store, Porthmadog’s charming souvenir shop on High Street.
Pop Local And Beyond
23.7 km
Discover authentic Welsh handmade gifts and homeware at Pop Local and Beyond, supporting local artisans in the heart of Porthmadog.
Crafts North Wales
23.8 km
Discover authentic handmade crafts and local treasures at Crafts North Wales, a charming gift shop in the heart of Porthmadog.
The Original Factory Shop (Porthmadog)
23.9 km
Discover unbeatable deals on quality clothing, beauty, and footwear at The Original Factory Shop in the heart of Porthmadog.
Boho Bazaar
24.1 km
A colourful, fair-trade gift shop on Porthmadog’s High Street, filled with bohemian clothing, handmade jewellery, essential oils and global-inspired décor.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Last Inn
0.5 km
A cosy, rustic pub in Barmouth serving excellent real ales, hearty local dishes, and warm Welsh hospitality daily from noon to late evening.
Hendre Hall Pub / Bar
6.2 km
Cozy Welsh pub in scenic Llwyngwril offering local ales, hearty meals, live music, and warm hospitality by the coast.
The Ysgethin Inn
7.1 km
A cozy Welsh pub offering authentic cuisine, local ales, and warm hospitality in the heart of Tal-y-bont.
Yr Unicorn
11.0 km
Experience authentic Welsh hospitality, local ales, and lively music at Yr Unicorn, Dolgellau’s beloved traditional pub in the heart of town.
Black Rock Beach Club
22.9 km
Stylish beachside dining and drinks with heated outdoor terrace, BBQ flavors, and a welcoming vibe in Morfa Bychan, North Wales.
Tafarn Glanaber
22.9 km
Cozy coastal bar and restaurant in Morfa Bychan serving fresh Welsh seafood with stunning sea views and a warm, relaxed atmosphere.
Cambrian Coast Bar & Grill
23.2 km
Fresh coastal flavors and warm hospitality meet at Cambrian Coast Bar & Grill, your gateway to seaside relaxation in Borth.
Oak
23.6 km
A traditional Welsh pub in Penrhyndeudraeth offering friendly atmosphere, well-kept Marston’s ales, hearty food, and a genuine local experience.
Tafarn Pencei
23.6 km
Historic Grade II listed pub on Porthmadog’s harbour, serving traditional ales and diverse food in a welcoming Welsh atmosphere.
The Ship Inn/ Y Llong
23.7 km
A traditional Welsh pub in Porthmadog offering hearty homemade meals and a warm, welcoming atmosphere steeped in maritime heritage.
Y Llew Coch - The Red Lion
23.7 km
A historic Welsh inn in Dinas Mawddwy offering cozy fires, local ales, hearty meals, and charming B&B stays amid Snowdonia’s scenic beauty.
The Australia
23.8 km
A lively Purple Moose Brewery pub in Porthmadog offering hearty pub fare, vegan options, and a welcoming atmosphere with local craft beers.
Clwb Llyn Bach
24.0 km
A lively pub and social club in Porthmadog offering spirited nights, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Red Lion
24.1 km
A welcoming traditional Welsh pub in Porthmadog with a spacious beer garden, pool table, and lively atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
The Union Inn
25.5 km
Historic 19th-century village pub in Tremadog offering cozy rooms, traditional Welsh fare, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
- Protected Area
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
