We are proud to work with a top 10% worldwide attraction!
Vale of Rheidol Railway Named in the Top 10% of Attractions Worldwide
We were delighted to work with one of Wales’s best-loved heritage railways, the Vale of Rheidol Railway, to create an A4 children’s activity book and activity sheet.
Running between Aberystwyth and Devil’s Bridge, the narrow gauge steam railway has been a fixture of the Welsh landscape since 1902. Today, it continues to attract visitors from across the UK and beyond and this summer has received global recognition, as the Vale of Rheidol Railway was officially named among the top 10% of attractions worldwide in the 2025 Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards.
The Vale of Rheidol Railway asked Colour Heroes to create an activity book and activity sheet to entertain their young visitors.
From the outset, it was important that we worked with their existing character Dyffryn the dragon, who was brought to life with an illustrated character design and features throughout the children’s book.
Families are introduced to Dyffryn who guides them along the route and shares the unique history of this heritage railway. Meeting James the railway engineer, they discover how and why the railway was built, plus educational facts about how a steam engine works, and Dyffryn introduces local wildlife for children to spot. The book includes activities such as puzzles to unscramble, missing words to be completed, crosswords, the legends of Devil’s Bridge, and fun facts and stories from the railway.
About Vale of Rheidol Railway
The Vale of Rheidol Railway is an iconic narrow gauge railway established in 1897, which first opened to the public on December 22, 1902. Originally designed to stimulate the local economy and support lead mines in the area, it has transformed over the years to become a beloved tourist attraction, showcasing stunning terrains impossible for standard gauge construction. After enduring various ownership changes and the challenges of the world wars, the railway is now a charitable trust dedicated to the restoration and improvement of its historic locomotives, carriages, and tracks.
The 11¾-mile journey offers passengers a unique opportunity to experience the dramatic landscapes of the Rheidol Valley, with its lush woodlands, cascading waterfalls, and panoramic views of the Cambrian Mountains.
How can a bespoke retail book benefit your site?
A children’s retail book is more than just a product – it’s a powerful storytelling tool that captures the essence of your site, engages families, and creates lasting memories. It offers a unique way to share your hidden stories, deepen emotional connections with visitors, and leaves a legacy that extends beyond the day itself. A well-crafted book will boost brand loyalty and encourage word-of-mouth promotion, driving increased footfall and enhancing your revenue through direct sales.
Collaborative creation with Colour Heroes
At Colour Heroes, we believe in partnership. We work closely with your marketing, education, or retail teams to develop a book that’s tailored to your audience and aligned with your brand. Whether it’s a fun and educational guide for families exploring your site or a charming keepsake to take home, your book will reflect your identity – from illustrative style to tone of voice – while staying within budget.
From concept to delivery – We’ve got you covered
Our end-to-end service takes you from initial concept to final delivery. Our in-house creative team collaborate with you to produce hand-drawn illustrations, engaging educational content, and age-appropriate puzzles and games. Every element is designed to captivate young minds and enhance their experience.
Sustainable, profitable, and beautifully made
With over 30 years of experience in the print industry, we offer expert guidance on FSC-certified papers and finishes that balance sustainability with cost-effectiveness. Our goal is to help you create a retail book that not only delights your visitors but also generates a profitable income stream.
Proven impact on visitor experience
Our clients consistently report that their retail books have:
· Increased brand engagement and awareness
· Encouraged visitors to explore more of the site and stay longer
· Boosted customer loyalty and repeat visits
· Enhanced overall visitor satisfaction and experience scores
· Led to more recommendations to friends and family