A new pop-up pub is set to open at Llangollen Railway this weekend as part of one of the line’s biggest annual events.
“The Beyer’s Arms” will welcome visitors from April 10 to 12 during the much-anticipated Branch Line Gala, offering a range of award-winning Welsh beers in a unique heritage setting on Llangollen Station.
Named after Victorian locomotive engineer, philanthropist and early LGBTQ figure Charles Beyer, the pub pays tribute to a key figure in railway history.
Beyer, founder of Manchester-based locomotive builders Beyer-Peacock, also built and lived in Llantysilio Hall.
The railway plans to further mark his legacy with a dedicated event on June 2, coinciding with the 150th anniversary of his birth.
The pop-up bar will be located on the station ramp, with restored railway carriages positioned on Platform 1 to give visitors the chance to enjoy drinks inside vintage surroundings, creating a private booth-style experience.
A selection of beers will be available on draft from Porthmadog brewery Purple Moose, including Ysgawen, Snowdonia Ale and Dark Side of the Moose.
Mold-based Hafod Brewing Co will also be serving its Helles Lager and Sunrise IPA, with bottled beers, wines and soft drinks also on offer.
Across the weekend, cafés at Berwyn, Glyndyfrdwy and Corwen stations will also be open, alongside the popular Porter’s Bar at Glyndyfrdwy, which is housed in a converted parcels van with views over the railway.
Gala organiser Iain Ross said the event would put the railway “at the centre of the community”, adding that the Beyer’s Arms would be open to everyone from 6pm, with free entry on Friday evening and £5 entry on Saturday for non-ticket holders.
Live music will also form part of the celebrations, with local folk musician Chris Greve and friends performing on Saturday night.
The Branch Line Gala is widely regarded as the railway’s flagship event, bringing together heritage trains, visiting locomotives, vintage vehicles and a range of attractions along the Dee Valley.
This year’s line-up includes rare GWR Pannier Tank No. 1369, making its first visit to the railway, and the return of Small Prairie No. 4555 for the first time in more than 60 years.
They will join home fleet locomotives including No. 7754 and freight engine No. 3802, alongside diesel Class 14 D9525, which will be making its final appearances at Llangollen.
Visitors will also have the opportunity to ride in freight brake vans and book a limited number of footplate experiences.
Special Events Manager James Veal said the weekend would mark a renewed focus on community engagement, adding that the railway is also set to relaunch its popular Real Ale Trains later this month under the new name “Ales of Wales”.
The Beyer’s Arms will be open from 12pm each day of the gala, with evening entry offers available for non-ticket holders.
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