🇬🇧 My Favourite Coastal Escape from Birmingham — Aberdovey, Wales

#myfavoriteroute If you’re based in Birmingham and looking for a relaxing, scenic day trip or weekend escape, Aberdovey (Welsh: Aberdyfi) is my absolute favourite little coastal town — peaceful, charming, and surprisingly accessible. 🚆 Getting There — The Best Part Starts on the Train! The journey itself is part of the experience. From Birmingham New Street, you can hop on a direct train to Aberdovey, and in just 2 hours, you’ll be watching the rolling Welsh hills transform into gorgeous coastal views. Top Tip: Sit on the left side of the train when heading west — from around Machynlleth onwards, the train hugs the estuary and coastline, and the scenery is simply stunning. 🏖️ Why Aberdovey? A Perfect Mix of Nature & Nostalgia Aberdovey is one of those hidden gems along the Welsh coast that locals adore but tourists often overlook. Here’s what makes it special: 📸 1. Rainbow Pier — Instagram-Worthy Spot The small pier, painted in soft pastel blues and pinks, stretches gently over the estuary. At low tide, you can walk to the end and recreate those dreamy, seaside shots — feels straight out of a scene from About Time. 🚂 2. Talyllyn Steam Railway — World’s Oldest Narrow-Gauge Railway This vintage steam train is pure nostalgia — it’s the original inspiration for Thomas the Tank Engine, running through the lush Fathew Valley. Perfect for families, train lovers, or just anyone craving a whimsical, slow-paced adventure through the Welsh countryside. Tip: The station at Tywyn (10 mins from Aberdovey) connects directly to the steam train route. 🐦 3. Craig yr Aderyn (Bird Rock) — Unique Hiking Experience For nature lovers, this 1-hour hike takes you to the top of “Bird Rock,” Britain’s only inland sea bird nesting site. The views are absolutely worth the climb — rugged cliffs, panoramic hills, and flocks of birds circling the summit. 🌿 4. Beach Walks & Village Charm Aberdovey has a beautiful sandy beach that feels endless, especially at low tide. The village itself is postcard-perfect — pastel cottages, cosy cafés, little seafood spots. It’s quiet, laid-back, and makes you forget the big city exists. 🌟 Why I Recommend It ✔️ Easy, affordable train access from Birmingham (ideal for car-free travellers) ✔️ One of the most scenic coastal train routes in the UK ✔️ Combines nature, history, and seaside charm — perfect for a day trip or slow weekend ✔️ Great hiking, bird-watching, and vintage steam trains — something for everyone ✔️ Not touristy — peaceful even in summer compared to busier seaside towns #travel #train #unitedkingdom