Dr Beeching, Hero or Villain? - The Mawddach trail

Many argue that Dr Beeching destroyed the rail network in the 1960s by closing many small branch lines. This certainly had a major impact on many communities but it also provided the opportunity for some great walking/cycling along the old route lines.

The Mawddach Trail footpath walk and cycle route winds for 9.5 miles (15km) along the disused railway track on the southern edge of the spectacular Mawddach estuary. Whilst the trail can be joined at several points it starts at the picturesque market town of Dolgellau and finishes by crossing the iconic railway bridge over the mouth of the estuary into Barmouth.

My campsite for this stay is part way along the route providing easy access to both Barmouth in one direction and Dolgallau in the other. These photos are from several days walking to various destinations. The later blue sky pictures are the start of my 23km walk on Saturday.