The Llangollen and Corwen Railway has announced that its Great Western freight locomotive No. 3802 will be temporarily renamed ‘The Lady of Llangollen’ for the weekend’s Mother’s Day celebrations.

The event forms part of a wider Women of the Railway programme, honouring both historic and modern figures linked to the Dee Valley. 

Among those celebrated are the famous Ladies of Llangollen, Eleanor Butler and Sarah Ponsonby, whose remarkable story remains central to the identity of Llangollen.

Modern railway contributors are also in the spotlight, including Mandy Towers, Station Master at Llangollen Railway Station, and Anita Piatkowska, who helps make the on-board experience truly memorable.

For both of these ladies of Llangollen, their leadership and passion reflect the community spirit at the heart of the heritage railway.

Visitors can enjoy steam-hauled services running between Llangollen and Corwen throughout the weekend, as well as witness the locomotive’s special renaming.

Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea trains have already sold out, highlighting the popularity of the railway’s heritage experiences, but the opportunity to book a slot throughout the year is still possible.

 “Mother’s Day is always a very special occasion on the railway. There is something truly magical about enjoying afternoon tea on a heritage train as it travels through the Dee Valley. It is lovely to be part of creating those memories for families, and I am proud to be helping deliver such a special experience. Mother’s Day weekend provides a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the remarkable contribution women have made, and continue to make, to the story of Llangollen and the success of the railway. Renaming No. 3802 as ‘The Lady of Llangollen’ reflects both our heritage and the family spirit that is so central to our organisation.”

Anita Piatkowska