Is This the UK’s Most Scenic Bus Trip? Traws Cymru T3, Wrexham to Barmouth.

In the Summer of 2023, I took the Traws Cymru T3 bus service from Wrexham to Barmouth to see what a relatively long distance Welsh bus route is like. I wasn't disappointed.
In this video I'll show you the first bus (a double decker) that took me all the way to Dolgellau and we'll pass through some beautiful scenery on the way. We'll have a look at the inside and I'll tell you what you need to know in order to enjoy the route yourself.
After Dolgellau, we change onto another service to continue the journey and we pass alongside some of the most picturesque scenery anywhere in the British Isles. Ending in Barmouth, I'll tell you how much it cost me and where you can get the best fish and chips money can buy!
I was certainly impressed with this journey and I hope it'll inspire some of you to take the trip too. Thanks as always guys for taking the time to watch my videos. All likes, comments, subs are massively appreciated and it really encourages me to make more content for you all to enjoy.
Cheers for now.
Mark
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📖Chapters
00:00 - Introduction
02:26 - Wrexham to Dolgellau
13:36 - Dolgellau to Barmouth
19:08 - Summary

[@steve-marsh]

We loved our trip to Wales, but I found the driving really tricky, so would be nice to let someone else do the hard work! Fantastic video, reminded me of how beautiful Wales is. Cheers mate.

[@jjsmallpiece9234]

Wales is a bit like much of Scotland, you drive by time rather than speed or distance. Once in mid Wales you don't get anywhere fast.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Lots of stone walls, keeps the concentration going! And rain (normally). But it’s a mountain and lakes area isn’t it - a ‘west of the UK thing’! Cheers mate 😊👍

[@spark_6710]

Lol. I visited Wales twice & I wouldn't dare to drive there ,or England ,or Scotland !! Lol. Like Japan where I'm originally from ,too many super narrow streets/ roads there !! Scary !! Lol. And finding parking & all is a drag !! Besides,in an emergency situation ,I'll react like I would as driving over here in the States !! Not sure about the traffic law in U.K.& my whereabouts are bad formula for a disaster cocktail !! Lol. 😅💜🥁🐉🎤🎶🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿💞

[@user-gt2ud2gw9e]

The wales rover tickets covers both trains and provincial buses, during a period of 8 days. If you need more than 8 days (as I did) just buy another one.

[@spark_6710]

@user-gt2ud2gw9e Yes !! I had read that before ! But ,you have to be spending more than 8days in the areas ,in my case I couldn't use it last summer . Hope he could use that ,your suggestion ! 👍💜🥁🐉🎤🎶✈️🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿💞

[@tsr207]

Mark - this is what you excel at - a simple, well planned trip delivered in a warm ,friendly informed style. A highly enjoyable visual treat ! - Excellent !

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Thanks mate, glad you enjoyed it.

[@iforwilliams2509]

Excellent, Traws Cymru is an excellent national service. Wales is not a principality, its a country.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Ifor, I always thought it was but I stand corrected - ta.

[@Timstravels01]

You weren’t wrong about the scenery. It just got better and better. What a lovely bus journey.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Tim, it certainly surpassed my expectations even though I know the area quite well. I’ll definitely do one or two more 👍

[@neilewart4347]

Recently went to Llangollen railway from Ruabon by bus. Drivers both ways were helpful and friendly .Very good service and not expensive. Beautiful scenery. I'm so old I remember trains running to Barmouth!!

[@paulmark63]

Great video keep up the great work Paul in Kent

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Paul 😊👍

[@spark_6710]

OMG !! THIS ,I'LL HAVE TO WATCH !!! Thank you so much for this one !! 👍👍😍💜🥁🐉🎤🎶💞

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

No worries, hope you enjoyed it 😊

[@spark_6710]

@LetsMakeaTrip I did !! And I giggled at your worried face there ! It reminded me of how uncertain I was ( a Japanese gal from Los Angeles ! Lol ) there during my trip in Wales, whenever I took a bus or train in Wales I often got worried if I was at a right place ,or if I really get to my destination on time !! Lol. And you !! You're an English man ,but you weren't sure ,either ! Lol. On trains in Wales, they announced often that we had to change our car to another ,or even get off as it changed to a non direct train from direct one !! LOL And I saw & Brits ( mostly Welsh ) were saying " Where am I !?" So on...talking to a friend ,or family member on their mobile phones !! I was like ,if you guys aren't sure ,what am I supposed to know/ do here !!?? Lol. Laughable memories now ,but I was panicking a bit !! Then one time ,I almost got stranded at a train station in Saundersfoot in pitch darkness !! LOLOLLOL That was my fault ,though ! I knew about it two years beforehand, but because of covid pandemic lockout ,delayed my trip & totally forgot about it !! ( no man operating & no taxi around ! ) A big thanks to Simon ,the train driver who let me jump back on that train & got me off at Tenby station & called a taxi for me on his mobile !! 🙏💕I told this story to other Welsh in Saundersfoot on the bank holiday there ,they just loved it too much !! I felt like I was a talk of the town for a while after that !! LOL They grabbed their friends to tell my story & the one told another & others jumped in the conversation & went on in a big circle of drunk Welsh people at a bus / taxi stop right by the arcade !! I was just laughing with 'em !! Lol. Thank you so much for your reply !! 💜🥁🐉🎤🎶💞

[@KidCurry666]

Top bus journey, and great value too, thanks for posting 👍🏼👍🏼

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers KC, thanks for the comment 😊👍

[@brianbell4937]

I was aware of your video, but did not want to watch it until I had managed to find a double decker on it, as some days there are none. I failed to get a double decker on the T3's predecessor, Ariva X94, so did not want to miss out again! Luckily yesterday there was one running, but only did the 1515 from Wrexham to Barmouth. From the new timetable on 5th November most buses will omit the vilages, with a connecting T3C to serve them. Also the plan is to get new single deckers and retire the double deckers. The driver was naughty kicking you off before the proper stop in Dol. I used a £6.50 1bws ticket, valid all day on almost any bus route in North Wales, purchased on an Atrriva bus earlier. I always steer clear of app tickets for many reasons, not least what happens if your phone dies.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Yes I’ve heard the 1bws ticket is good value - I might well use that next time. Sad to hear about the double-deckers but glad you made it onto one. Bustimes is a good website for checking that kind of stuff. Cheers Brian 😊👍

[@keithwhite1478]

That was brilliant. You would be surprised at the number of English people who have no idea that Wales is a seperate country. Which is causing loads of trouble with the new 20 mph speed limit in the whole of Wales! Great video.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Keith. Yes I’ve heard about the 20 mph. Though it’s only a few miles to the border for me, I haven’t had the ‘pleasure’ of the reduced speed limit yet!

[@peterdean8009]

@@LetsMakeaTrip It's 20 mph only in built-up areas. Imagine, 20 mph on the M4!

[@kevinh96]

I don't get what the fuss is about to be honest as all that has changed is that the default speed limit on those roads where it applies has been reduced to 20mph. That doesn't mean every non motorway road is now 20mph as many seem to think, it just means that if there are no speed limit signs and you are in a built up area with street lighting you should assume the limit is 20mph whereas before you assumed it was 30mph. Road with faster speed limits still have faster speed limits. 40mph roads are still 40mph, 50mph roads are still 50mph, national speed limit roads are still 60mph and motorways are still 70mph.

[@phoebus007]

@@kevinh96 There are also a number of roads in built-up areas that have been given an exemption and remain 30 mph. However, as this is no longer the default, they have 30 mph repeater signs.

[@keithwhite1478]

You dont understand the issue. Its anger at the arrogant and aggressive way the Welsh Goernment terat anyone who challenges anything they do. 460k names on a petition and the First Ministersays it means nothing. I drove from llandudno to Prestatyn last week and i was torture. 20 mph even in rural areas. Totoal traffic Jam. @@peterdean8009

[@samanthamorristhecat8131]

i went to Barmouth in August this year. an absolutely stunning place. stopped at lake Bala one the way there and a visit to Harlech castle before a stroll on the beach at Barmouth and late lunch. We stopped at Llangollen on the way home for a coffee such stunning views along the river and looking over at the train station.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

All beautiful places those Samantha. Don’t forget though, Barmouth has the best fish and chip shop!

[@markcarson8]

Was late to c this video Mark, thanks for suffering the heat in the front for us to get an amazing view, cheers pal

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Mark. Yep a great bus, we’ll worth a trip in any weather I reckon 😊👍

[@jimcrawford5039]

Great vid. Mark. Fantastic scenery! Cheers from Oz.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Jim, thanks for watching mate 😊👍

[@BSRtransport]

Best bet when travelling around North Wales is the 1bws ticket it's £6.50 atm and covers all bus services in North Wales (apart from the 28 between Mold and Flint, unsure as to the reasoning behind that) but it's very good value and you can really cover some lovely places

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Yes that is excellent value. I've heard of it now and will use it next time I go. Cheers

[@PaulGodfrey]

I enjoyed the video. Great scenery. The sunny weather was a bonus but it can make the front of some double deckers way too hot.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Paul. Yep I had a similar experience on the Excel bus but the a/c was on coming through the vents which made it bearable. I guess it depends on the bus to an extent 😊👍

[@slowlydrowninginirrelevance]

On-screen info, bigger, darker and on for longer please Mark mate, quality content as per!

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers mate, thanks for the feedback. You should find my more recent videos have a better text format.

[@leeallen1407]

My happy place and favourite part of the world

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Lee, yep me too - even when the weather’s a lot worse than this!

[@sarahillingworth2718]

Lovely scenery 🙂

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

It’s beautiful isn’t it. Love this area 😊

[@sarahillingworth2718]

@@LetsMakeaTrip yes it is x

[@simonwhitlock9189]

What a lovely journey, thank you,cheers.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Simon, glad you enjoyed it 😊👍

[@DaveinLeeds]

Thank you, a lovely video. My sister used to live in the Barmouth area and I remember having visited her once as a teenager, making the journey back to Wrexham on the old Crosville D94 route, I believe it was. Those were the days. The bus parking area was then on the other side of the level crossing.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Yes the old green Crosville buses. We used to get them in Shrewsbury too. I vaguly remember the bus parking in Barmouth - been going there for years. I remember the old double-header summer trains as well and then realise why Barmouth needed such long platforms!

[@iancoffey3208]

Awww that's the bus I get to my mum's house 😊

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Ian, hope you enjoy it as much as I did 👍

[@powmillon]

Excellent video once again. Great Bus trip through Wales .

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Thanks mate, glad you enjoyed it 😊👍

[@seancoleman8528]

Loved that scenery thankyou for the heads up one to put on my bucket list

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Oh definitely put it on the list Sean, it's right up there in terms of scenery!

[@raymondhunt6109]

I Live near Barmouth and as you say the Mermaid fish & chips shop is the best in the area. Lloyds coaches operate a lot of our services and are very good.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

I’d travel (I have travelled) all the way from Shrews to get fish and chips from The Mermaid. Love it 👍

[@katiemace8864]

Great video and lovely scenery thank you for sharing your journey with us

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Katie and thanks for leaving a comment 😊

[@karljoachimgoll]

What a fantastic trip

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

It was. Cheers Karl

[@ICanPlayPiano]

When I lived in Wrexham this bus was known as the 94, Llangollen, Corwen, Llandderfel, Bala, Llanuwchllyn, Dolgellau, Bontddu and Barmouth. This was before the Welsh Government TrawsCymru network was created. There is a nice TC bus from Newtown all the way into the Capital following the A483 and A470 and, I think one that links the Beacons Brecon and Hay on Wye with the fine Welsh City of Henffordd!

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

I’m thinking of trying that one from Newtown. Doesn’t make much sense for me, living in Shrewsbury but it looks like a nice run on paper.

[@progster999]

Added to my Viking invasion of Wales itinerary next year.....Thanx for a great video !!!

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers mate - I defintely recommend it (and one or two others are on my list for net year too).

[@progster999]

Let me suggest that the Western Isles from Vatersay to Port Nis is on your list for next year. The best tour in UK.... 200 miles on small buses and ferries@@LetsMakeaTrip

[@jwoodzman]

What a fantastic video and brings back great memories of Barmouth! 🤗😀✨

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Thanks mate, glad you enjoyed it.

[@Spacewish21]

Thank you for such cosy and spectacular trip. Nature are gorgeous and outdo all expectations. Your videos inspire me and imbue my heart with peace and tranquility.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Well thanks very much for the kind words!

[@sueweston502]

We did the Langollen canal this summer. Your excellent video brought it all back, especially the fantastic scenery :)

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Thanks Sue, lovely comment and I’m glad you enjoyed it 😊

[@lindajoy7208]

That was such a beautiful trip. Down South here they have air conditioning units on some of the buses on the top deck, righthand side at the front but have to say they can be very draughty if you're sitting in that seat as you were. Funny. I like getting on the bus first for the same reason but sit on the left at the front 🤣 I'm thinking of doing some travel myself on the buses but problem is a lot of then get cancelled. Can't be easy travelling with the weather we're having though. Have a great weekend

[@dcbrit2003]

You should do a trip on the north York Moors railway

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Tried these heritage railways before but unfortunately, no one's interested in them. Don't know why tbh but there you go.

[@kevinpennick3604]

Fabulous view's..

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

They are. Definitely recommend the trip 👍

[@stevedeakin1883]

Beautiful scenery Mark , but public transport in Wales in general is rubbish , or certainly in the Gwent valleys where I live , it's very unreliable and expensive . Keep up the excellent work Mark and I look forward to seeing your next video 😊😊.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Steve, I might give it another go on the buses. As a tourist, I really enjoyed it but I’m not sure what it’s like if you need to rely on it tbh. Thanks for the comment 😊👍

[@windymiller6908]

Same thing for East Glamorgan valleys. You hear plenty about poor train service but little about the dire bus service, which is the most used form of public transport in the valleys and should never have been privatised.

[@jamessmith6402]

Thanks Mark that was a fabulous trip 👍

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers James, thanks for watching 😊👍

[@robertfletcher3421]

That looked to be a real adventure, Beautiful weather.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Robert. Yep the weather certainly made a big difference!

[@hallaboard8154]

My husband was the driver of this bus! It was nice that you recognised the skills involved in negotiating some of those lanes and lovely to see the stunning countryside on a sunny day. Thank you.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

It was a nice ride and (he probably won’t remember) but he helped me out in Dolgellau when I wasn’t sure where to get off! Please convey my thanks 😊

[@robertalan3214]

Thanks for sharing that trip Mark, lovely scenery, weather amazing, really enjoyed that 👍

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Robert. Been meaning to produce this video for a while so it's going back a few months but I had a great day doing it and obviously the weather helped massively.

[@andyb2706]

That coast line of the Cambrian coast is one of the most stunning sections of coastline around the UK. Also there are some fantastic beaches at Fairbourne, Barmouth and Tywyn. I really need to visit again at some point.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Andy. I agree and carrying n north to the Lleyn Peninsula it gets even better coastal-wise. Llanbedrog for example - lovely there!

[@nigelgarvey2046]

Very enjoyable! Thanks! I've driven some of those roads many times. It's great to see the views from the relaxed and higher vantage point of a bus. Refreshing to hear accurate Welsh pronunciations too! I'm a Glaslyn estuary fan myself (the views from the Cob at Porthmadog just make me happy), but the Mawddach certainly pips it for drama!

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Nigel - wasn’t that confident with the pronunciation tbh (there are lots of pedants out there when it comes to that sort of thing), good to know it wasn’t too bad. I like the Cob as well. Need to get myself back to Porthmadog for a few pints of Purple Moose. I’m sure they did a Glaslyn ale at some point?

[@nigelgarvey2046]

@@LetsMakeaTrip I dare say native Welsh speakers would roll their eyes at both our renditions. 😁 But it sounds as if you, like me, have made some attempt to learn the pronunciations. Many don't bother. Yeah. Purple Moose are still advertising Glaslyn Ale on their Web site. Their Snowdonia Ale's very pleasant too! 🙂

[@peterdnreynolds777]

Brilliant video and beautiful scenery!! Hope all is well, take care

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Peter, yep, can’t complain atm thanks. Hope you’re good too 👍

[@sheilam4525]

Never been to Wales but it looks stunning. You certainly had the weather for it😊

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Thanks Sheila. Oh you should go there, admittedly it's right on my doorstep but I love it. The scenery is beautiful any time of year.

[@kevinellis8869]

Amazing Mark! Glad to see you've finally brought this to us. We did it a few years ago (Pre-Covid) and also have used one of the other routes - Caernarfon-Porthmadog, as you say between them the trains and buses cover most of the country very well. The least said about bus pass validity the better, when I come back to North Wales I use the 1bws ticket and don't have a problem with it. As regards the lack of toilets I recall two ladies getting on at Bala and getting off as the bus turned into a village to use the facilities at the first stop and got back on after the bus had gone to the far end of the village and turned around - they left their shopping on board whilst it happened! Loving the bus trips almost as much as the train trips!

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Great story Kevin, thanks. Yep, overall I think the network is pretty decent. As a tourist, I would use it to get about though not sure how good it is from a commuting and/or local pov tbh. Overall though, definitely recommend 👍

[@equaliser2265]

Nice trip my friend, God speed.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers mate 😊

[@custardo]

Went to Porthmadog in August, and the views from the train were superb. Highly recommended, although the train can get very busy indeed.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

It can get busy that train. Barmouth Bridge is closed atm but when it opens again I would recommend a trip in the winter as the contrast is fantastic and the train is (should be) nice and warm!

[@peterroberts2737]

Glasgow to Portree. Loch Lomond, Glen Coe, Glen Shiel, The Cuillins to name a few of the places you go through.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Yes that is one trip I really want to do 👍

[@sandiandgregh]

So beautiful! Really enjoyed being able to tag along virtually on your trip. I’ve only been to Wales once…very briefly…but will go back. It’s on a long-and-growing “where do we go next” list. :)

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

I have a list like that! 😂 Wales is great, right on my doorstep and so varied. Thanks for the comment as always - much appreciated 😊👍

[@matthewodwyer3615]

New Delhi on a Friday.... Wrexham on a Saturday. Quite the contrast. Another great video here Mark. I think I need to get out and see more of Wales in 2024. Its so good when trains and buses connect well with each other especially in arsas where train services can be sparse...

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Matthew, yes I was surprised when researching this how many 'T*' routes there were. I definitely plan on doing some more next year. Btw, Texas this friday!

[@djmark143]

I have driven the A5 a few times from Holyhead all the way up to Telford before going south towards London and finally to Dover for my ferry crossing over to Dunkirk. I prefer the A5 any day over the regular Welsh expressway to Chester and then heading south. The A5 is a fab road and this route has some stunning settings indeed. Lovely video, truly enjoyed it. Cheers from another Mark. 🙂

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Mark. I agree, when you drive the A5 you get a real sense of history I think. Tbh, it used to be a nightmare round Shrewsbury on a summer bank holiday and the bypass really helped with that. But the road’s still there and I love it!

[@shaun30-3-mg9zs]

Hi Mate, it's a stunning ride from the hustle and bustle of the city of Wrexham and surrounding areas in to the lush green county of Denbighshire and in to Llangollen and Corwen and then to the county of Gwynedd to Bala ,Llanwchllyn ,Dolegllau and finally Barmouth a bargain ride for £5.60. You put on the start of the video in Wrexham you put Clwyd , Clwyd is not a county now not since 1996, the city of Wrexham is in the County of Wrexham, just a little info for you. Great video happy travels🚌🚌🚌👍

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Shaun and thanks for the comment. I’ll make a note of the Clwyd thing for future reference, ta 😊👍

[@0530evan]

thinking of trying to take a bus from london to north wales....to the irish sea.... went by train several yrs ago....and picked up a bus in wales to get to the irish sea......

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

You could take the Eurolines coach (see my recent video on that for info 👍).

[@0530evan]

thank you for the information....will look into it@@LetsMakeaTrip

[@arthurbraddock5235]

Stunning views of lake couldn't get any nearer on bus that that thought he was going drive in it 😊 good vid again likes yours not to long and not to short .. ps right about the windows used to drive buses boiling in summer frezing in winter 😅

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Arthur, thanks for the comment - appreciate it 😊👍

[@davidoliver1169]

Hi Mark. I make regular trips myself to Wrexham from London. I agree that the scenery is fab. Also had a similar 'greenhouse' experience upstairs on a bus recently. Thanks for another entertaining video. Cheers.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers David. Yes, love the scenery from start to finish really. I’d love to do it in the winter with snow on the mountains - would be fabulous 😊👍

[@craig.bryant]

Beautiful trip and great buses, what more could you want?!

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Nothing more than that Craig! Oh maybe a bus pass one day 😂

[@Alan_AB]

Re:- Bus passes. I had a 60+ bus pass which only serves for Northern Ireland. When I got my 65+ bus pass it automatically covered Southern Ireland too. None of these passes cover England, Scotland or Wales. When I made some enquiries I was told that the decisions were made by the various local government departments as they subsidused the fares.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Hi Alan, yep that sounds about right.

[@adamdennison8621]

Truly amazing scenery! Need to make this trip at some point. Stopping at Dolgellau would be a great spot for exploring Snowdomia and potentially some low flying aircraft training in the valleys.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Adam. Yep, I was pretty lucky with the weather tbh but on a day like this you may well get the jets from RAF Valley (I think) and the Mach loop is the place for that if you ever get the chance.

[@robertofraser101]

Thanks enjoyed wales does look lovley yea these bus trips that is a bargan price for the journey

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Robert, yep, definitely a bargain I thought.

[@grahamcheshire9787]

I live on the Welsh/English border in South East Wales. This makes the bus pass rather limiting in use.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

I guess you can mainly just go west (and on the English side, east) yes.

[@baseballfan99]

I had only recently read up about this longer distance bus network and low and behold you make a video on part of it. The scenery does look amazing so thanks for making the effort.A bit of trivia, a train used to run (or may still do) to Wrexham Central starting at Wrexham General and took the title of the shortest distance for a single rail service on the UK.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

What are the chances! Yep, on another subject (somewhere) I was going to ask what the shortest branch line was and I could only really think of this one in Wrexham and the Stourbridge one. There may be others but pretty sure these must be candidates.

[@juliescanlan6424]

Great video Mark, I'm watching this in the evening after we visited Barmouth today ourselves! We frequently travel on these roads but I'm usually looking out from my motorbike helmet whilst riding pillion or as a passenger on the hubbies bike or sidecar outfit :) Nice to see the views from the top deck of the bus!

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Thanks very much. I must admit though, I reckon a sidecar ride on this route would be great fun! Well any route really, I’ve never been in a sidecar 👍

[@kevinmcanulty2593]

Welcome to the scenic delights of Wales. Try The Brecon Beacons at some point. Thanks for another great video

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Kevin, yes I’m hoping this video does well and I can fund one or two more then. I definitely want to do the T4 and T5 👍

[@tonymatthews6950]

Great trip Mike really enjoyed.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Tony.

[@tonymatthews6950]

@LetsMakeaTrip Your welcome Mark how about a trip to the Scillies in the spring a bit expensive though thanks for the great trips Tony.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

I was scheduled to do it a few weeks back Tony but then it all went tits up when storm whatever it was came over. Cancelled all my plans but I have rescheduled the Penzance stay to end of March so hopefully I'll be on it then.

[@gzk6nk]

The scenery on you rail trip back to Shrewsbury is better than from the bus. The Cambrian coast at Friog, and the Dovey estuary, then central Wales over Talerdigg summit. Brilliant!

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

I was wondering this as I’ve taken the train on that route many times. Yes that part is nice but Newtown to Shrewsbury’s fairly non-descript. Both got their scenic plus points I think. When the old route between Ruabon and Barmouth Junction was in use, that would’ve been fantastic. Another lost line unfortunately.

[@arwelp]

Great video - slightly sorry you didn’t show the houses on the left of the bus as you enter Corwen, as my grandmothers’ house was there (she died in 1969), the front door opening about 2 feet from the traffic on the A5 used to terrify me as a little boy. TrawsCymru is a very useful network, there’s a new T8 route, Chester - Mold - Ruthin - Corwen - you could probably use an English bus pass on that route, as long as you start or end in Chester.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Thank you! Good info there on the bus pass usage too. I don't qualify for one yet but one day I'll need to use one in Wales for sure! Sorry I missed your grandmothers house, the road must be a lot busier now though as well.

[@enricomonti156]

Great trip report. Traws Cymru indeex is a big fixing for the side effects that the Beeching Cuts brought over to some rural areas of Wales, and indeed it is worth a try, as I never visited Wales before

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

You should Enrico. Right on my doorstep and within the hour I can be in great scenery like this. I love Wales and fortunately I had great weather. If you ever get here, let me know 😊👍

[@enricomonti156]

​@@LetsMakeaTrip in my upcoming trip as I will also be visiting Aberystwyth I will be travelling with Traws Cymru towards Llangollen, which is also another Welsh gem not far from Shrewsbury. Traws Cymru has a lovely and handy day ticket as well for North Wales

[@elganthomas]

Fantastic Mark. I have never used the Traws Cymru as a Welshman, but recently took advantage of 50% off T2 day ticket on the app so one day in the next 12 months I'll do Bangor to Aberystwyth!

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Elgan. Yep Bangor to Aber would be a good one to do, I'm also thinking Newtown to Cardiff one day (though it doesn't make much sense for me living in Shrewsbury). Plenty of scope though on this network, I'll definitely do some more!

[@ricktownend9144]

Lovely trip! - really enjoyed watching the video. TrawsCymru seems to work as a network with the railways to give an alternative to driving. The buses are obviously a bit slower than the trains - or driving - but the main thing is they do seem to view connections as important. Perhaps, though, it would be good to have some express bus services with very limited stopping on some routes - as well as the regular buses.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Rick. Yes with most of these trips (the ones I do anyway), you don't want to be in much of a rush tbh! Obviously most of Wales is a bit limited now when it comes to trains but this Traws Cymru network is certainly compensating in some areas.

[@garethdevlin2732]

Great video. Good decision on waiting on the double deck. Top front window on a bus is normally a great seat for views etc but a nightmare on a very warm day. The other issue would be having to look at a million fly splats on the window.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Gareth. Yep, plenty of flies about on that day! A/C would’ve been good if I was being picky but as you saw, I just moved down the bus after a while to feel the benefit of he open windows.

[@alexn643]

Great video! Views into Barmouth are something! Maybe you should try the 555 bus Lancaster to Keswick? I haven’t tried it yet, but am going to

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers mate. Yep the 555 I have heard about that one so I shall be expecting a report/video. I hope there's a 'KZbinrs Society' you can join up there lol!

[@mikepaolo3169]

I'd be cheeky on the Wrexham part n try n use my Stagecoach staff pass....if you don't ask......

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Absolutely Mike, what’s the worst that can happen. If you don’t ask you’ll never know 👍

[@phoebus007]

Welsh bus passes are valid on cross-border routes that either start or end in Wales, eg. Welshpool to/from Shrewsbury, or Newport to/from Hereford.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

That’s useful to know, thanks for the info 😊👍

[@williamsdaf]

Nice little touch of the statue commemorating Owain Glyndŵr in Corwen. Diolch Mark!

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

That is a fantastic statue that. Always stands out when you're driving through Corwen. And rightly so!

[@shaun30-3-mg9zs]

Owain Glyndwr my hero

[@jimmenycricket4598]

Love the scenery round that part of Wales but prefer driving myself rather than going on public transport - unless it's the Ffestiniog Railway Railway!

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers mate. Interesting comment that because I was the same a few years back then the older I get, the more I can’t be bothered driving very far anymore. Maybe it’s just me!

[@good7saint]

Mark I have a bone to pick wit you. You're videos are encouraging me too do daft journeys lol. I'm in Liverpool and rode the entire merseyrail network to for something to do. Now I'm retired I can do these things

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Haha, enjoy mate. I’ll be retired myself soon!

[@schwarzalben88]

That bus basically replaces the long closed railway line between Ruabon and Morfa Mawdach ( Barmouth Junction)

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Yes, only the heritage lines remain in parts unfortunately (and a well-used cycle trail!).

[@BRI535D]

On a tangent I suppose but I think it was an absolute tragedy that the railway line from Corwen through Bala to Barmouth was lifted in the mid 60's.What a stunning ride that must have been!

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

It was and I totally agree. There were rumours the existing heritage line could be extended but I’m not sure anything came of it in the end?

[@peterhodgkinson2782]

A bit late but a couple of the reasons why the line can go no further than Corwen. The bridge over the road just after the new station has been removed and the line through the old station ( you would see it on your right leaving Corwen) is now under the little industrial estate.

[@davidrobinson3221]

As a child I travelled from Rhuabon to Barmouth by train many times as the last leg when going to visit my grandmother. My over-riding memory is how industrial the first stage of the journey was (I.e. past the coal sidings and chemical works around Acrefair) and the scenery only opened out after Llangollen. After that I remember how slow was the onward journey, stopping frequently and waiting for other trains at passing points. I was usually asleep be Dolgelly (it wasn’t Dolgellau in those days) and had to be woken up at Barmouth. Without that route Barmouth became a less-interesting railway venue, being just a through station. No more engines having to cross and recross Barmouth bridge in order to turn around at the Barmouth Junction triangle (note, not Morfa Mawddach in those days).

[@killerqueen9298]

Hi Mark. You were only 6 miles from me when you were in Corwen. I've travelled that route hundreds of times when I was at work. What do I think of public transport? My answer? What public transport? Nearest bus stop is 4 miles away on the Ruthin to Wrexham route or 6 miles to Corwen. We had bus Wrexham twice a week years ago but that was cancelled by Denbighshire Council to save money. These greens who say ban cars should try living round here without a car. Rant over. Great review as always😊😊

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers mate, thanks for the comment. Much more difficult with public transport in rural areas I agree it ought to be improved where it’s a problem. Not much progress there by the sounds of it.

[@peterdean8009]

Thanks a lot / diolch yn fawr, Mark. Did you notice that the illuminated 'bus stopping' sign was not biligual? Isn't that illegal in Wales? lol

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Diolch Peter! It didn’t cross my mind tbh but now you’ve mentioned it 👍

[@CornishGardenTeam]

Hi Mark. Thanks for another great video. As a Shrewsbury local you probably know better than i do, but i thought Cymru was pronounced 'kumr-ee', not 'kumr-eye'? I think 'au' is pronounced 'eye'?

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Yes I’ve already been corrected by Jo! 😂 glad you enjoyed the video 👍

[@pooleuser]

Service will be speeded up next month as it will keep to the main road between Bala and Corwen. A replacement local bus - T3C - will run from Llanuwchllyn to Corwen via Llandrillo.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Interesting. Tbh, I didn’t really consider speed as a thing on this route given the roads used. As a tourist it was all about the scenery but appreciate that from a locals pov, it would be good to be able to connect a little quicker yes. 👍

[@finleytransportfan]

Can you please do a trip on the whole Coastliner 700 service run by Stagecoach from Portsmouth the Hard to Brighton which requires a change of bus at both Chichester & Littlehampton, the journey takes around 3-4 hours and has branded E400MMCs operating it

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

I will definitely be in Portsmouth again at some point so I’ll have a look. Cheers Finley.

[@neilcrawford8303]

I've been considering that journey from either Chester or Wrexham. I can get to Chester free by train as I have a Merseytravel disabled pass. I'd probably get the 1Bws ticket. A day rover for North Wales. It's only £6.50, and if you have an English or Scottish concessionary pass, it only costs £4.50. Either way, it's a lot of travel for your money. They're currently doing major works on Barmouth Bridge, so it's rail replacement buses. Another great video.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Neil. Yep, I believe the bridge is out of action for a while unfortunately. £6.50 / £4.50 for a days travel on the bus - you cannot go wrong for that. Might try it myself in the future. 😊👍

[@neilcrawford8303]

@LetsMakeaTrip As I said, great video. Just a shame the bus isn't more like the Stagecoach X2 from Preston to Liverpool with USB points fabric seat covers and tables. I'm sure the E400s leave either Scarborough or Falkirk plants eith built in squeaks and rattles. Epsom Buses -Quality Line (now history thanks to RATP) used them on the 406 and 418. They were the noisiest buses to travel on, especially the panel in front of where you were sitting at the start of your journey. The panel fits like a size 10 shoe on a size 7 foot.

[@johnwoodhouse6797]

On a Welsh bus pass you can cross the border providing the route terminates in England. And vice versa. I can travel from Newtown to Shrewsbury on a Welsh bus pass but cannot use it to transfer to another bus destined for another destination in England.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers John, yes I thought that must be the case reading some of the comments on here. Thank you 😊👍

[@Kevin19886]

Our bus service is bad here in aberystwyth and I think all bus passes England and Wales should be able to use them on all buses if you have a welsh bus pass then you should be able to use it in England with a small fee and the same with English bus pass in wales

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

I thought the bus station outside the railway station there looked quite good wrt connectivity? I’ll defer to your greater knowledge sir!

[@jjsmallpiece9234]

A fate worse than death - 'another hour in Wrexham'.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Haha, I knew someone would say that. I’m from Shrewsbury, i couldn’t possibly comment! 😂

[@shaun30-3-mg9zs]

I know I live here🤣🤣🤣

[@Red_Snappa]

@@LetsMakeaTrip Should hv popped - literally around the corner at Wxm bus station - and taken in the 'atmosphere' at what we call 'Top Spoons' (Wetherspoons). Proper _Star Wars Bar_ material in there mate.... 🤣

[@Marcsharp82]

Is contactless tap on/tap off not used on Welsh buses? Some great views on this one

[@shaun30-3-mg9zs]

The bus services around Wrexham (ariva) have tap on ,tap off

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

I’ll defer to Shaun’s knowledge there 👍

[@UserUCKANAOD8SlYguEhbCkUdlMQ]

Officially yes on buses in North Wales, they are all meant to be tap on, tap off as the Welsh Govt funded for it to happen (with the high end cap being the 1Bws fare) however some operators are the exception and I have little faith that it works on the smaller operators so it's easier to pay cash.

[@swanvictor887]

lovely trip in wonderful countryside. I have to ask, was this at the height of summer? Because if this was late September or October, well, erm....is it me or is the weather freaky for the time of year? Sunburns...in October...in Wales??!!

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Thanks. Yes it was earlier in the year- June.

[@rachelehrenberg9231]

I had the same online bus ticket issue with New Jersey Transit. The bus ticket times out in 30 minutes but the train remains active for 2 hours. Silliness, eh?

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Yep, timed out but no provision for changing buses after 30 minutes it would seem.

[@rachelehrenberg9231]

@@LetsMakeaTrip At least when one paid cash in the past one received a paper transfer.

[@raymondhunt6109]

I believe Welsh bus passes are valid on some cross boarder services i.e. Wrexham/ Chester, and vice versa.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Raymond, good to know, thanks 😊👍

[@shaun30-3-mg9zs]

You can get the ariva No1 bus from Wrexham to Chester as long as you coming back to Wrexham on the pass but you can't use it from Chester going further in to England

[@iancoffey3208]

Top bus route get off at langoin or Bala or corwin

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Ian, yep, if I had the day pass, get off at Llangollen, train to Corwen and get back on 👍

[@iancoffey3208]

Aye mate if you like out door stuff North Wales is the place 😊

[@MaidaValeTom]

If I'm honest, As much as I don't agree with that couple arguing with the driver, I think it's pretty poor that the English concessionary bus passes aren't valid in Wales and vice versa, especially since the Wales/England border is filled with cross-border services and towns that are well populated. In places such as Chester where some suburbs and residential areas are across the border in Wales, it's pretty pointless for residents to have Welsh concessionary passes that wouldn't allow them travel into their town centre across the border in England. Scotland is a bit of a different case as it's governance has more of an obvious shift, and there aren't that many cross-border local services as the border regions are pretty sparsely populated. Interestingly when it comes to the regulation of the concessionary bus passes, London is technically separated from England.

[@mikepowell2776]

When concessionary bus passes were first introduced I believe they included all three ‘countries’, but excluded Ulster. Since then, like so many ‘benefits’ their value has been limited. It is ridiculous that cross-border travellers are disadvantaged. Where I live (in England) although I have a pass we very rarely see a bus to use it on.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

I’m sure I read somewhere that I you live in London, you get your bus pass earlier?

[@MaidaValeTom]

@@LetsMakeaTrip You get issued your concessionary pass at 65 as normal, although you can apply for a 60+ Oyster card when you hit 60 which is essentially identical to a Conc pass, it’s just got a different limit to the times it can be used. However, all London residents can use their Concessionary passes and 60+ Oysters on rail/tube services within Greater London as well as buses.

[@shanewaterman4125]

Doesn't the £2 bus fare scheme cover Wales and/or that operator? Was a bit surprised you paid £5.60 fare (which is damned good value for a trip like that anyway, to be fair). Any plans to do trip over the Yorkshire Moors on what is said to be the most scenic bus route in the country - think it starts 'somewhere near' the north end of the Humber Bridge (but don't quote me!) - it was a £14 bus ride before the £2 scheme. Now it's packed thanks to it being the massive bargain that it is.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

It doesn’t cover it (last time I looked anyway) but I believe what I should’ve done is buy a ‘day explorer’ type of ticket which is unlimited travel for only a couple of quid more. That’s certainly what I’ll do next time.

[@peterjeremymckenzie8444]

Mark, stop giving all our secrets away. Seriously though it is a joyful route which your video portrays. The bus station in Corwen is interesting as they try to use a pulse timetabling as you can connect to the T10 Bangor or T8 Ruthin Mold Chester. So you can go from Wrexham to Betws-y-Coed or Ogwen Cottage, walk upto Llyn Idwal catch one back to Betws for coffee and then make your way home. From Dolgellau you can catch a T bus to Aberystwyth. The connections are usually good and even had driver phone ahead to make sure you make a connection if there has been a delay!

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Thanks for the idea. This trip definitely won’t be my last on Traws Cymru. Might try something in the winter actually and see what it’s like then. And Betws-y-Coed is lovely too 😊👍

[@peterjeremymckenzie8444]

Last winter used T3, change at Corwen onto T10 to Ty Hyll - Ugly House and walked down path alongside river to see Swallow Falls (a mis-translation from Rhaedr ewynnol which really means Foamy Falls) from the path alongside the river you do not pay an entrance fee. Have something to eat inBetws-y-Coed and buses back. Best of luck.@@LetsMakeaTrip

[@TheSadcyclist]

Loved the comment about skill full drivers, many year ago used this bus for a day out, and twice we met an oncoming car, and our driver had to get out to reverse the drivers car to safety, because the idiots behind our bus wouldnt or couldnt reverse. You dont see a lot of english ever reverse in north wales , its as if theyve never acquired that skill. Also rear seat on the final bus is the worst seat as the engine is right behind it and heat comes from loud engine as well as lots of noise.Thats why its usually empty, OPtare Metro city bus

[@TheSadcyclist]

oh and a great video of a great route.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers mate. I see quite a lot of that when I’m out driving - not sure it’s exclusively English who are doing it but you get it around here too (when anywhere rural) some people just can’t do it 😂 Sometimes I’d quite fancy being the bus driver but yep, sure it can come with a load of hassle too! 😊👍

[@keithwhite1478]

Great video. We cant use Welsh bus passes in England so obviously the reverse is true. Wales is a seperate coumtry with its own government. Did I see you called it a Principality??? That would send Welsh people into right old tantrum

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

I did, then I realised it was a bit out of date. Strangely enough, not that many have called me out on it - I was expecting more tbh!

[@finleytransportfan]

Yeah you should if bought a paper ticket, would if been a better idea especially with long distance services which require a change of bus at certain places.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

I think so, one for next time I reckon.

[@johnmullin1188]

😊lol Mark the double decker bus driver threw you off to go and get diesel 🤔 what's all that about! You with no ticket for your onward journey 🤔 what you have paid for I think they will have to rectify that problem but as a bus journey very nice m8 I hope you enjoyed your fish and chips all the best John 😊

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers John! Yep, no bother with the ticket really. Great drivers and beautiful scenery. What more could you ask for? Oh yeh, fish and chips. Sorted 😊👍

[@UserUCKANAOD8SlYguEhbCkUdlMQ]

The ticket issue was not the drivers fault, it was Marks fault for buying the wrong ticket for the journey he was making. The 12:35 journey is NOT meant to continue to Barmouth, it was always meant to terminate at Dolgellau.

[@jackmaher9296]

Class video. Lloyd jones operate the 19 from Llandudno to llanwrst or bewtys y coed I think it is

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Jack - that sounds a nice route too. Could come back on the Conwy Valley line 👍

[@jackmaher9296]

Yea hopefully

[@spark_6710]

What's a difference between bus stop / station there !? I get confused ! Lol. This was a bit discouraging ! As I have been wanting to go to Barmouth by train/ bus ! Lol.😅👍👍💜🥁🐉🎤🎶💕✈️🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿🚉🚍🚕💕💞

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

I would try both. These smaller towns just have a couple of marked bus stops on the road so you know where to wait. Google Maps also helps with this. 😊👍

[@spark_6710]

@LetsMakeaTrip Google maps helped me a lot ,too ! I always usually it wherever I go ! To me ,bus " station" is a big one with multiple bus stops at one place ! But, I noticed you guys in U.K. call every bus stop a bus station ? I might be wrong. Thanks for the video ! And thank you so much for your reply !! 💜🥁🐉🎤🎶💞

[@andrewjones-productions]

@@spark_6710 Nope. A bus stop is exactly as in Japan. A bus station is what is called a 'バスターミナル' (bus terminal) in Japan.

[@spark_6710]

@andrewjones-productions Thanks ! Lol How do you know Japanese !? I am Japanese ! LOL But,I've been living in the States for 35 years ! I live in L.A. I googled so many places in Wales/ England before my trip last summer ( my 2nd visit ) & they showed up saying " bus STATION " all of it !Maybe it's an American thing !? Lol I've gotta ask. Thank you so much for your reply ! 💜 🥁🐉🎤🎶✈️🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿💞