VoR Photo Charters - A Behind The Scenes Look

A group of photographers with a VoR guide.

John R Jones

Photo Charters - A Behind The Scenes Look By Will Smith

Did you know that as well as the regular timetabled services, it is possible to charter your own private train or hire the railway for a full day? Photographic specials have been a regular fixture in the railway calendar for many years with various events promoted by either David Williams of Timeline Events or Martin Creese of 30742 Charters. These typically take place during March or November and offer photographers unrivalled access to capture scenes of the railway that would not be possible on a normal day. Previous events have drawn photographers from all corners of the UK and overseas. Often, these trains utilise some of the railway’s heritage wagon fleet which gives the opportunity to see “mixed trains” or goods trains, prototypical of the railway’s early days. Pride of the fleet is the newly restored cattle wagon No 38089, resplendent in Great Western lettering, often joined by some of the 4 wheeled wagons, some of which originated on the short lived Plynlymon & Hafan Tramway, and have been resident on the VoR for over a hundred years. Usually these events have an early start in order to maximise the early morning light glinting off the polished locomotives and stock. After a quick safety brief, we board the train and head off up the valley. The train will stop in a number of locations along the route that are inaccessible to the general public. The railway staff know the line inside out and are able to point out all the best locations. Once photographers are in position, the crew set the train back out of site and are able to stage a number of “run pasts” giving everyone the chance to capture the shot from a variety of angles.

A fantastic photo full of character, with the crew having a brew.

David Fowler

Some of the stops are particularly important such as our first arrival at Capel Bangor, as this is our first stop for a brew of the day. Whilst we cannot guarantee the sunshine, we always have a great day out!

Photographers crowd the tracks during a stop at Aberffrwd.

John R Jones

If you want to enquire about booking your own charter or joining an existing one then get in touch via marketing@rheidolrailway.co.uk

Photo charters provide access to areas that would otherwise be out of bounds to photographers.

John Barrance

Taken during a short break at Capel Bangor during a charter.

Peter Rosier

The engine heads to the next station to take on water.

Richard Jones

The train is captured passing through Glanyrafon Halt during a run past for the photographers.

Richard Jones