National Railway Museum

One of the most exciting parts of the museum is the chance to get up close to some of the most famous trains in history. Have you ever heard of the Mallard? It's the world's fastest steam train, and it's right here at the museum! You can also peek inside the luxurious Royal Trains that once carried kings and queens across the country. Kids will love learning how these giant machines work, and they might even get to try their hand at operating a signal box. It's an adventure that brings history to life! Or check out the amazing engineering beauty of the Japanese Bullet Train - and find out why it's a world-changing invention! 

Family Friendly Activities

Ever wondered how a steam engine works? The museum's science shows are here to answer that question! These lively demonstrations at the Wonderlab - Bramell Gallery explain the science behind trains in a way that's easy to understand and loads of fun. Kids will leave with a new appreciation for the magic of steam and the power of engineering. You can test your engineering skills as you enter the human wind tunnel, launch a rock or immerse yourself in an explosive live show to showcase the science behind ALL the fun!

Hop aboard the Road Train and let your little ones experience the joy of riding a train their size! This gentle ride is perfect for younger children and a great way for them to feel like real train drivers. It's a must-do for any visit to the museum!

But wait...you MUST try the Flying Scotsman VR Experience - a brand new virtual reality experience and immersive adventure! You'll be transported back 100 years into the locomotive's history, where you'll meet historical figures, including those from the British Empire Exhibition. 

Daily demonstrations include the locomotive turntable and the winding engines, which are fun for curious minds of all ages to study. You can relive the splendour of days gone by with a steam or diesel ride behind one of the engines or take a trip on the miniature railway before relaxing in the Play' n' Picnic area, which is extremely popular with the kids! Or why not do it all?! 

In the workshop, you can see the traditional restoration skills of the engineers and craftsmen or have fun building your own models using amazing interactive displays! It's educational, but it's fun, and there's the rub: they'll hardly know they're learning through the joy of it!

Kids can learn how to build a bridge, control the signals or discover what keeps a train on the tracks in the Interactive Learning Centre! It gives a much better and more informative experience of the railway than your average trip, offering loads to pique their curiosity and the answers to most questions too! Come soon for the biggest family day out, admission is free for everyone! Really!

The Great Hall: The Heart of the Museum

The Great Hall is the star of the National Railway Museum, filled with some of the most iconic trains ever built. When you walk into this massive space, you'll be surrounded by a historic collection of locomotives and engineering marvels, each with its own incredible story.

One of the most exciting moments in the Great Hall is the turntable demonstration. This giant piece of machinery is used to rotate the massive locomotives, and watching it in action is truly impressive. Be sure to catch one of these demonstrations during your visit – it's a highlight for visitors of all ages!

Food & Drink

Whether you need a quick snack or a full meal, the museum's cafes and restaurants have something for everyone. The Duchess of Hamilton Suite offers a variety of tasty options, including sandwiches, salads, and special kids' meals. And if you're in the mood for something sweet, why not treat the family to a traditional afternoon tea? It's a delicious way to round off your visit.

The Gift Shop

No visit to the museum is complete without a stop at the gift shop! Here, you'll find everything from model trains and railway books to puzzles and toys. It's the perfect place to pick up a souvenir to remember your day at the museum.

Why We Suggest The National Railway Museum

The National Railway Museum is the perfect place for a family day out. With its mix of fascinating history, hands-on activities, and fun surprises, it's a destination that promises something for everyone. With award-winning displays of  Whether your kids are train-mad or just love a good adventure, this museum is sure to be a hit. So why not plan your visit today and get ready to create some amazing memories? The world of trains is waiting for you!