Take a trip down memory lane as we explore the forgotten railway stations of Wales. Once bustling hubs of activity, many of these stations have been left to rot or have all but disappeared since the massive cuts of the 1960s. Dr Richard Beeching’s infamous railway reforms in 1963 saw the closure of numerous lines, slashing essential links that once made traversing Wales by train a breeze. With just three main lines surviving the axe, the landscape of Welsh transport changed dramatically, leaving behind a treasure trove of history.
Some stations like Aberdare remain open, offering a glimpse into the past with their traditional architecture, while others, such as Blaenrhondda and Ferndale, are fading into history, overtaken by nature and time. Photographer Ceri Jones has captured these remnants, providing a poignant snapshot of once vibrant stops on the Welsh railway network.
From the decaying platforms of Penwyllt to the tattered remains of Talerddig, each station tells a story of community, travel, and change. Whether it’s the fireplaces in the men’s toilets at Aberdare station or the old GWR-coloured doors still visible in 2011, these images transport us to a time when trains were the lifeblood of local travel.
Do these forgotten stations stir up any memories or stories for you? Have you explored any of these hidden gems yourself? Let us know in the comments and share your own journey through the historic tracks of Wales. Rediscover the charm and history hiding in plain sight and imagine the bustling scenes that once were. 🚂✨