The railway's construction and first season was documented in 'Models, Railways and Locomotives', including an account of one day when they carried 5,000 passengers. Click here to read about it.
RHYL MINIATURE RAILWAY: A HISTORY IN PICTURES
The railway's history has been long, and at times quite complex. On this page I've put some pictures to illustrate the story. If you would like to read a full account, go now to a detailed history in words.
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The railway was
originally designed by Henry Greenly, a talented engineer. He thought that the
Marine Lake was an ideal place for a miniature line, and history has proved his
judgment correct. This postcard is thought to date from 1911 and. the
locomotive is Prince Edward of Wales, a 4-4-2 built by
Bassett-Lowke. The railway's construction and first season was documented in 'Models, Railways and Locomotives', including an account of one day when they carried 5,000 passengers. Click here to read about it. |
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When the railway was built the only other
attractions at the Marine Lake were boating rides and the water chute. However,
as the Lake became more popular a thriving fairground was built up. The railway
formed an integral part of this. As you entered the site a simmering steam
locomotive would be one of the first things you saw. Who could resist a ride? |
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This postcard proclaims: RHYL MINIATURE RAILWAY, BUILT By ALBERT BARNES & Co, RHYL. These minute engines are an exact replica of their larger sisters, fitted with superheaters and all the latest improvements. During the summer they run around the Beautiful shores of the MARINE LAKE at "SUNNY RHYL". Packed trains like this one must every miniature railway operator's dream! |
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This postcard was taken in 1978, when the
track had just been re-laid. It still follows the old circular route around the
lake, although there has been some realignment and trains now climb steeper
gradients than they did in the old days. The locomotive here is Michael,
still carrying its livery from 1969. Since 1978 the railway has had a more difficult time economically, with less visitors coming to Rhyl, and a smaller proportion of them finding the Marine Lake, behind the west end of the sea front. Even so we strive for future generations to be able to enjoy scenes like this one. |
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Since 1980 local businessman Les Hughes
has enabled the RMR to stay in steam, being now the owner of the most of
the railway's locomotives and carriages. This photograph of him with Joan was
taken in 1996.
Les is Chairman of Rhyl Steam Preservation Trust, which took over operation of the railway in 2001. |
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We also owe a lot to the driver here, Ken
Dove. He became inseparable from the railway from 1982 until his death in 1994.
Against all manner of adverse circumstances he always managed to keep the wheels turning. This photograph, with Joan, was taken in May 1987 when he had just managed to secure the reopening of the railway following a previous dispute with the Council. Ken favoured this unlined maroon livery. |
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Simon Townsend, caught by the local press photographer, lighting up Joan during August 1994. |
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Full steam ahead for another ninety
years!
Since formation of Rhyl Steam Preservation Trust additional stock has arrived, the volunteer team has grown and passenger numbers have doubled. Our exciting new station and museum opened in May 2007, putting the railway onto firm foundations for the future. We now have our own support organisation 'Friends of Rhyl Miniature Railway'. Follow the links below to read about the latest developments! |
Go now to read full history of the railway.