The National Railway Museum tells the absorbing story of the railway in Britain over the past two centuries. Its displays look into the ways society has changed and developed as a direct result of rail transportation. The complex showcases around 100 rail vehicles, from wagonway trains and steam locomotives to royal train saloons.
Peruse the museum’s large halls to see the majestic vehicles in their many colours. See the blue Mallard, which broke the world steam locomotive speed record in 1938. The record still stands today. Marvel at the modern appearance of the maroon-and-yellow Duchess of Hamilton, built in the 1930s. Look up at the train’s driving wheels, the largest that were ever successfully used on a locomotive.
Climb aboard the luxury carriage of Topaz to imagine yourself as an aristocratic traveller at the turn of the 20th century. You can also get inside several other trains. Sit on the Japanese Bullet Train and learn about the high-speed Shinkansen through a short film.
Go to the workshop to see engineers repairing and restoring old trains. Interactive activities are held here on weekends. Kids will love the science shows and the stories about York’s railway past. They can ride a miniature railway at the children’s play area.
Explore the vast library, known as the Search Engine. There are more than 20,000 railway-related books in the collection. Browse the fascinating photographs that bring antique locomotives to life.
Have lunch in a dining car styled like a Victorian-era carriage. Purchase ice cream from the unusual yellow shipping container.
Entrance to the museum is free, although certain attractions may incur a fee. The museum is open daily year-round except for Christmas with reduced hours in the winter months.
The National Railway Museum can be found near York’s main train station in the centre of the city. Many attractions surround the transportation hub, such as St. Mary’s Abbey, York Art Gallery and Clifford’s Tower.
