Transport for Wales has now launched a direct service between Liverpool and Llandudno and we jumped on the first ever journey to find out what it’s like
16:22, 18 May 2026Updated 16:35, 18 May 2026
Tommy and Pat Hobart are both from Liverpool and are enjoying their retirement(Image: Liverpool ECHO)
A new train service from Liverpool to Llandudno started today, creating a direct and convenient link for those looking to travel between the two destinations. To mark the occasion, the ECHO booked a ticket for the first service from Liverpool Lime Street Station, catching the 6.46am train to the Llandudno Station.
Arriving early, filled with anticipation, we were able to capture the train pulling in, as the crew prepared the carriages for its maiden voyage. Joining us for this historic moment were 23 other passengers, not all of whom were travelling the full distance, with many alighting at one of the 14 stops en route to Llandudno, including Chester, Prestatyn, Rhyl and Colwyn Bay.
In fact, the only other passengers committed to the entire journey were ourselves, and Tommy and Pat Hobert, both from Liverpool and visiting the Welsh seaside town for a day out. Scheduled to take approximately one hour and 53 minutes, we were all impressed at how smoothly the journey had gone, and the beautiful views available from the train windows.
Tommy and Pat are both retired and are always looking for opportunities to get out and about and do a bit of travelling, and said they jumped at the chance of taking the new direct train service from Liverpool to Llandudno.
First ever direct train from Liverpool Lime Street to Llandudno(Image: Liverpool ECHO)
Tommy said: “We got up very early today just so we could take the first ever train. We’ve been to Llandudno a few times already, but getting there is so easy now and suits us perfectly.
“It really is great, and especially in the summer, so I expect lots of people will be making the trip, either just for the day or longer. Seeing as we come to through it just now, the next time we might jump off at Colwyn Bay or even Rhyl.
“We’ve both really enjoyed their journey as well, and it’s very scenic but looking forward to getting there now, walking along the promenade, having something to eat, a couple of drinks and enjoy the sunshine.”
View of Colwyn Bay from train window(Image: Liverpool ECHO)
As Tommy mentioned, and it’s worth reiterating, the scenery is spectacular from the carriage windows, beginning from Frodsham onwards, and becoming increasingly eye catching until the train travels along the Welsh coastline. Sat comfortably in a four-seat bay, you can enjoy the impressive land-and-seascapes from Flint to Colwyn Bay, and see cows and sheep grazing in the fields.
It’s hoped the new train service will represent an economic boost to both Llandudno and Liverpool, allowing easier and more frequent opportunities to travel between the two places.
Mayor Steve Rotheram and former First Minister Eluned Morgan met at Llandudno Junction train station late last year to discuss rail links along with the chair of Transport for Wales, Vernon Everitt.
First ever direct train from Liverpool Lime Street arrives at Llandudno station(Image: Liverpool ECHO)
In October, Mayor Rotheram described the importance of the proposal, he said: “The Liverpool City Region and North Wales share deep historic, economic and cultural ties – and improved transport links will only strengthen that partnership in the future.
“Creating better connections across the North West and into North Wales is a key part of our vision for a more joined-up, more productive economy.”
When we arrived at our final destination, Tommy and Pat headed off to find a café, while we had a couple of hours to enjoy some sightseeing. We were able to chat with several small business owners who said they are excited at what more visitors will mean for Llandudno, while some of the locals we spoke to, said they were looking forward to visiting Liverpool.
View of Llandudno beach and pier(Image: Liverpool ECHO)
The direct service will run several times a day, and has already attracted huge interest, especially in Liverpool. The opportunity to visit one of the UK’s premier seaside town’s is now more accessible than ever before, and if tickets are booked in advance, adults can get a return for approximately £20 via Transport for Wales.