The 3 Counties Connected Community Rail Partnership is inviting the public to explore Chester and Wrexham in a new, sustainable way with their “Tours by Rail – Step into the Story” initiative.
The tours, which run through autumn and winter, are funded by the Community Rail Network, Community Rail Development Fund, and Transport for Wales.
They celebrate the stories, people, and places that form the backbone of communities along the rail network.
Each tour is led by accredited Green Badge Tour Guides, and those attending travel by train between destinations, enjoying a locally sourced lunch on the way.
With only eight spots available per tour, early booking via Eventbrite is recommended to avoid disappointment.
The first tour, ‘Women’s Stories’, takes place on 11 November 2025 and focuses on the lives of extraordinary women who have shaped Chester and Wrexham.
These include saints and royals, as well as educators, medics, and politicians.
On 18 November 2025, ‘The Marches’ tour will take participants on a journey between Wrexham and Ruabon, tracing the ancient earthworks of Offa’s and Wat’s Dykes to see how these landscapes influenced life along the border.
Another tour, ‘Railway 200’, on 2 December 2025, will celebrate 200 years of the modern railway, specifically looking at local contributions to the transport revolution that connected communities worldwide.
The final tour, ‘Border Connections,’ on 9 December 2025, delves into the shared histories of Wrexham and Chester, revealing how people, goods, and ideas have flowed across the Wales–England border for generations.
Josie Rayworth, community rail officer at 3 Counties Connected Community Rail Partnership, said: “We’re really proud to be working with our local partners on such a unique project.
“Tours by Rail brings people together to discover the amazing stories, places, and connections that make our region so special, all while encouraging more sustainable travel.”
Paul Webster, regions support manager at the Community Rail Network, said: “These bespoke visitor experiences offer a unique and relaxing way to take in the heritage and beauty of this region and one which we are proud to support.
“Experiencing the history of local destinations, their culture, and cuisine will be so much more enjoyable with travel by train included as an integral part of these tours.”
Melanie Lawton, community rail strategic lead at Transport for Wales, added: “Using the public transport network to discover attractions and support local economies is fantastic.
“3 Counties Connected continue to deliver innovative projects to connect communities to their railways.”
All Tours by Rail experiences are free of charge and include rail travel and lunch.
Booking is essential through Eventbrite by searching ‘Tours by Rai’.
