The Llangollen and Corwen Railway has announced a new partnership with Wales Comic Con, adding a twist to this year’s event at Llangollen Pavilion between 4 and 5 April 2026.

Mixing heritage travel and pop culture, the collaboration promises fans an experience that begins long before they reach the venue.

At the heart of the launch is a special ‘Red Dwarf Steam Train’ running on Saturday, 4 April. Passengers will be joined by actor and comedian Chris Barrie, best known for his role as Arnold Rimmer.

During the journey through the scenic Dee Valley, Barrie will meet fans in an onboard experience designed to be as entertaining as the destination itself.

His wider career spans satire, sitcom, and film, while his personal enthusiasm for railways makes the partnership a natural fit.

Departing Corwen at 9:00 am and arriving in Llangollen 40 minutes later, the service is limited to 200 passengers.

Tickets include a return journey, priced at £40 for adults and £12 for children, along with priority Comic Con entry, with flexible return times throughout the afternoon.

The celebration continues on Sunday, 5 April, with a ‘Cosplay on the Trains’ theme, offering another 200 passengers a combined travel-and-entry package. Organisers have also hinted at surprise appearances and themed moments across the day.

With celebrity encounters, immersive travel, and a festival atmosphere, the partnership aims to boost the Comic Con experience while showcasing one of North Wales’ picturesque heritage railways.

“We are absolutely delighted to be partnering with the team behind Wales Comic Con to bring these exciting plans to life. Having worked with them previously, we know just how passionate and creative they are in delivering memorable events, and it is fantastic to be collaborating once again. The opportunity to welcome fans aboard a special steam service, particularly with such a well-known guest, is something truly unique for our railway and the local area.”

Dave Hennigan, Trust Manager at the Llangollen and Corwen Railway.

“It makes it even more special that Chris Barrie himself has a genuine love of steam trains, which adds an extra layer of excitement for both railway enthusiasts and Red Dwarf fans alike. This partnership marks the beginning of what we hope will be a strong and lasting relationship, and we are very much looking forward to working together on this and other future events that will help attract new audiences and showcase everything our railway and Llangollen has to offer.”

Dave Hennigan, Trust Manager at the Llangollen and Corwen Railway.