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The incredible UK train journey where the driver won't stop unless you ask them to

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This astonishing 121-mile rural r line called the Heart of Wales runs between Shrewsbury and Swansea, passing through the beautiful Welsh countryside.

Beginning in the stunning medieval town of Shrewsbury, the line makes its way down south into the mountains, providing stunning views over Shropshire Hills before crossing over the border and into at Knighton.

It continues through various spa towns, including Llandrindod Wells and Builth Wells, towards one of the most famous points on the line - a dark tunnel on the Sugar Loaf Hill continuing its way through market towns and the countryside to arrive at the coastal city of .

The line has 29 stations, a blend of larger ones towards either end and smaller ones where you will find different communities, from rail enthusiasts to gardeners and volunteers.

However, there is something rather unique about this line - the driver doesn't actually stop at all the stations unless asked to.

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Known as request stops - the train will only stop if a customer wants to board or get off the train; the purpose is to reduce the rail's journey times.

But how does a passenger make the driver aware of the station they need the train to stop at?

Passengers getting off are asked to let the conductor know of their request to stop when they have boarded the train. If the train is very busy, this can be done beforehand via an app, which will allow the conductor to arrange for the train to stop at a specific station.

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For those who are hopping onto the train, it's simple - raising your hand as the train approaches will signal the driver to stop. Trains approach requests stop at a slower speed to ensure safety.

Some of the request stops on the historic line include Llangennech, Sugar Loaf, Conwy and Saundersfoot, which sees around 8,000 passengers a year.

What makes the Heart of Wales so special is its ability to connect lively rural communities and towns across Wales and the Boarders, whilst providing an important transport link for many.

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