News Reader.info

When the sun is shining the beach calls and there is no better way to get there than by train - as long as there aren't any cancellations of course. I've been visiting Barmouth for

years, but it wasn't until more recently that I travelled there by train after my friend told me about the 'best train journey ever'. It was a beautiful sunny day, with no

clouds in the sky and I had managed to bag myself a window seat with a table - a must. READ MORE: 'I swapped my high-flying role and company car to patrol the streets of

Birmingham' So the first couple of hours are fairly standard, fields, buildings and houses and the usual stops in between - but when you head towards Aberdovey/Aberdyfi, that's

when the magic really happens. Even though I'm heading to the seaside and fully expect to see the sea, when you actually see it for the first time out the window - It's

breath-taking. Even though I was sat next to my husband, as soon as I saw the water, I couldn't take my eyes off the sea after being told to 'watch out' for the wildlife. I

was fully expecting to just see the sea and maybe some birds, seagulls - but nothing could prepare me for the moment where I saw dolphins in the distance. There they were, far in the

distance jumping in and out of the water, it lasted for just ten seconds, as the train moved quickly towards Barmouth. My only regret was not capturing the moment on video - but in that

moment, mouth wide-open, I couldn't take my eyes off them for fear of missing another jump as the train speedily moved on. Unfortunately it's not a guaranteed view - but it's

definitely worth travelling this way - even just for the possibility that you might spot one. When you're travelling by car, ok you see the view - but as you should be - you're

focused on the road in front of you. When you're on the train you can really take the sights in and enjoy them - and of course, to really appreciate it you need to book a daytime ticket

or at least one before dark. But on the way home, I managed to capture the beautiful sunset, no dolphins this time - but wow, what a view. I do worry that sharing this with you might mean I

might not get my favourite seat on the train next time I go, but I'm willing to take the risk. I paid £42.80 for an open return from Birmingham New Street direct (on a Tuesday) - but I

booked that last minute and there are lots of offers on all the time, and I suspect if you know when you want to return home you can find a cheaper off peak train fare. In my opinion, I

concur friend, it was the best train journey ever - I don't think I will ever drive to Barmouth again.