June 26, 2026 - 183 views
The Llangollen and Corwen Railway will mark Armed Forces Day tomorrow (Saturday, 27 June 2026), with a series of tributes and special arrangements to honour the service and sacrifice of current and former members of the Armed Forces.
The national day of recognition, which celebrates the dedication of serving personnel, veterans and their families, will be observed along the heritage line with discounted travel offered to all Armed Forces personnel as part of the railway’s long-standing support for the military community.
Serving and retired members will be able to travel at reduced rates throughout the day, continuing a year-round 10% discount offered by the railway on presentation of valid military identification or veteran’s cards.
The celebrations at the railway have been championed by Lieutenant Colonel Huw Parker, a volunteer with the line for more than 40 years and a highly decorated former Army officer. He has also provided the Armed Forces Day flag, which will be proudly flown and displayed across the railway for the occasion.
Lieutenant Colonel Parker highlighted the historic link between the Armed Forces and Britain’s railways, noting their role in transporting troops and supplies during times of conflict and supporting national resilience in peacetime. He also paid tribute to veterans who have gone on to work in the railway industry, bringing with them valuable skills and experience.
A reduced diesel-hauled timetable will operate on both 27 and 28 June due to ongoing hot and dry weather, but organisers say the service will still provide visitors with the opportunity to enjoy the scenic Dee Valley while taking part in the commemorations.
Llangollen & Corwen Railway Trust Manager David Hennigan said it was a privilege to welcome members of the Armed Forces community and reflect on the personal connections between the railway and military service.
He also referenced a recent visit from Major Brian Harper, a veteran with an extraordinary 47 years of service in the British Army, who also previously worked on the former Ruabon–Barmouth line before joining the military in 1955. His return to the railway, nearly 70 years later, was described as a powerful reminder of the human stories linked to heritage rail.
David Hennigan said heritage railways were about far more than locomotives and infrastructure, describing them as places where memories, service and personal histories intersect across generations.
Armed Forces Day is officially recognised across the UK as a time to show appreciation for those who serve in the armed forces and their families, and the railway hopes the occasion will offer a fitting and welcoming tribute for visitors of all ages.
Train times and tickets are available via the railway’s website, with organisers encouraging advance booking ahead of what is expected to be a busy commemorative weekend.
