Volunteering is integral to the operation of most preserved railways in the UK, and the Welsh Highland Railway in no exception. Our volunteers come from a range of backgrounds and interests but all fall in love with the dream of the Welsh Highland Railway.

That effort ranges from the obvious staff requirements such as the Loco crew, Guards and Buffet staff seen running the trains to the not so obvious such as those maintaining the track or keeping the gardens tidy. For every one of those these there are numerous other people helping in their own little way, such as your webmasters of this site sat in comfy armchairs at home promoting the Society. Whatever it is we can guarantee there’s a job that you can help us with.

Loco Crew

The Locos are driven and fired by people from all walks of life with all manner of skills. Some do actually work in the railway industry, but others could not be further away. The only common point is an interest in the WHR or railways in general. If you have that interest then try us and see how you get on.

Operating Department

There are plenty of other roles involved in the operation of trains; Guards are responsible for the safety and effective running of trains, Signallers need to control the movement of trains at the busy station in Porthmadog, Crossing Keepers control the flat crossing with the mainline at Cae Pawb, and Controllers are essential for overseeing the operation of the full Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railway network.

Rolling Stock Restoration and Maintenance

Anything that runs that needs maintenance and repair. Not only do we have groups who restore whole steam locomotives from scrapyard condition, but the everyday coaching stock and wagon fleet all need to be kept in good order. The annual checks and multi year refurbishments are generally done under the auspices of the permanent staff with help from volunteers. From painting and woodworking skills to cleaning and polishing, all help is valuable.

Track work

The Welsh Highland Railway’s track was laid predominantly by Cymdeithas Rheilffordd Eryri volunteers, and they also carry out much of the maintenance. They come from all walks of life and were helped by many people from outside the society such as groups of college students, railway managers, the army to name but a few.

Gardening, building work, elfing and much more!

There are a vast range of other ways to volunteer and help keep the dream alive. Like getting hands on? How about lending a hand with gardening or building work? Or fancy ‘elfing out’ on our Santa Specials, or other events? There’s an adventure for everyone.