3 Counties Connected Community Rail Partnership (CRP) is inviting the public to discover local heritage in a new and sustainable way through a series of free, expert-led tours. 

‘Tours by Rail – Step into the Story’ celebrates the stories, people and places that connect communities along the rail network between Chester and Wrexham. 

Each tour is led by accredited Green Badge Tour Guides, with participants travelling by train between destinations and enjoying a locally-sourced lunch along the way.  

There are eight spaces available on each of the four tours – booking is essential. 

• The ‘Women’s Stories’ tour (Tuesday 11 November) highlights the lives of remarkable women who shaped Chester and Wrexham, from saints and royals to educators, medics and politicians; 

• The ‘Marches’ tour (Tuesday 18 November) journeys between Wrexham and Ruabon, tracing the ancient earthworks of Offa’s and Wat’s Dykes and uncovering how these landscapes shaped life along the border; 

• The ‘Railway 200’ tour (Tuesday 2 December) celebrates two centuries of the modern railway, exploring local contributions to a transport revolution that connected communities across the world; 

• The ‘Border Connections’ tour (Tuesday 9 December) delves into the shared histories of Wrexham and Chester, revealing how people, goods and ideas have flowed across the Wales – England border for generations. 

The project has been funded by 3 Counties Connected CRP, Transport for Wales and the Community Rail Development Fund.  

Josie Rayworth, 3 Counties Connected CRP officer, 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 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, said: “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.” 

‘Tours by Rail’ will be repeated in February and March 2026 – dates to be confirmed.  

Keep up to date with future news, projects and events from 3 Counties Connected CRP via their website.