The Brecon Mountain Railway (BMR) is celebrating the close of a landmark 45th Anniversary year, marking its most successful season to date with record passenger numbers, strong revenue growth, and a packed programme of high-profile events.

During the 2025 season, the railway carried 63,307 passengers, representing an 18% increase on the previous year, alongside a 28 per cent rise in revenue.

The results underline the continuing appeal of the railway’s scenic journey through the heart of the Bannau Brycheiniog National Park and the success of sustained investment in events, marketing and the overall visitor experience.

The anniversary year featured a vibrant calendar of events, beginning with a strong Easter programme, followed by a highly successful 45th Anniversary Weekend celebrating the railway’s heritage and people.

The BMR also took part in Railway 200, marking two centuries of railway history, and hosted a popular Jurassic Tracks event, which saw dinosaurs descend on Pant Station.

Adding to the year’s profile, the railway also welcomed filming crews featuring well-known Welsh actors Ruth Jones and Steve Spiers, helping to shine a national spotlight on the attraction.

Growth has also been driven by a significant expansion of marketing and public relations activity, including working closely with an external agency to broaden the railway’s reach, attract new audiences and build on its reputation as one of Wales’ leading heritage attractions.

The season was not without its challenges. Exceptionally dry weather during May led to an increased wildfire risk, meaning services temporarily reverted to diesel haulage to ensure safe operation.

Despite this, visitor numbers remained strong, particularly at the height of summer. In August, the railway operated fully booked trains on most days, achieving an average 97per cent capacity across the month.

Looking ahead, 2026 promises to be another transformational year.

The railway expects to complete its acquisition by the Vale of Rheidol Railway, strengthening collaboration between two of Wales’ most important heritage railways.

Capacity will also be boosted with the introduction of a new ‘Excursion Car’ carriage, designed to enhance the open-air experience and help meet growing demand during peak periods. A diverse programme of new and returning events is also planned, building on the momentum of the anniversary year.

Stuart Williams, General Manager of the Brecon Mountain Railway, said: “Our 45th Anniversary year has exceeded all expectations.

“To see an 18 per cent increase in passengers and a 28 per cent rise in revenue is a real testament to the dedication and professionalism of our paid staff team, the strength of our events programme, and the impact of investing in professional marketing and PR.

“Even when faced with operational challenges, such as the dry weather in May, demand remained incredibly strong, and August showed just how popular the railway has become.

“As we look ahead to 2026, with the Vale of Rheidol acquisition nearing completion and the arrival of our new Excursion Car, we’re incredibly excited about the next chapter for the Brecon Mountain Railway.”