Transport for Wales Unveils Specially Branded Train for Urdd Eisteddfod

Transport for Wales (TfW) has unveiled a specially branded train to celebrate this year’s Urdd Eisteddfod, as the organisation continues its support for Welsh language and cultural initiatives across the country.

The rebranded Class 197 train, known as the “Mistar Urdd” train, will operate throughout the festival period as part of TfW’s partnership with Urdd Gobaith Cymru and its wider efforts to support Welsh culture and youth engagement.

The Urdd Eisteddfod, regarded as Europe’s largest youth arts and culture festival, is taking place this year at the Anglesey Showground from 23 to 29 May and is expected to attract thousands of visitors from across Wales.

TfW says the specially themed train has become increasingly popular with passengers since the introduction of the Class 197 fleet and is intended to help celebrate the event while raising awareness of the festival and its activities.

Alongside the train branding, Transport for Wales is also supporting the “Cronfa Cyfle i Bawb” (Fund for All) initiative for the second consecutive year. The programme helps provide opportunities for children to attend summer camps at Urdd residential centres, supporting wider access to Welsh language and cultural experiences.

The transport operator will also have a presence at the Eisteddfod itself, sharing an exhibition stand with Network Rail to provide information about rail services, recent timetable changes, and rail safety awareness.

TfW says the event provides an opportunity to engage directly with communities while promoting public transport and encouraging safe behaviour around the railway network.

Lowri Joyce, Head of Welsh Language at Transport for Wales, said the organisation was proud to continue supporting both the Eisteddfod and initiatives aimed at ensuring children across Wales can participate in cultural activities and experiences.

The collaboration reflects the increasing role transport organisations are playing in supporting wider cultural and community initiatives alongside their operational responsibilities.

Transport for Wales has continued to place a strong emphasis on Welsh identity and language integration across its services in recent years, including bilingual branding, onboard initiatives, and partnerships linked to major national cultural events.

The Class 197 trains themselves form part of TfW’s wider fleet modernisation programme, introduced to improve passenger experience, reliability, and connectivity across the Welsh rail network.

The Urdd Eisteddfod remains one of Wales’ most significant annual cultural events, celebrating music, literature, performance, and the Welsh language while providing opportunities for young people from across the country to participate in arts and cultural activities.