Buckinghamshire Railway Centre: Living History of Steam and Rail Heritage
Step back in time at Buckinghamshire Railway Centre, where historic steam trains, a stunning glass-roofed Visitor Centre, and family events bring railway heritage to life.
Nestled in the Buckinghamshire countryside near Quainton, the Buckinghamshire Railway Centre is a vibrant heritage railway museum spanning 25 acres. It features a stunning glass-roofed Visitor Centre, a vast collection of historic locomotives and carriages, and offers immersive steam train rides on select days. The site hosts family-friendly events including 'Day Out with Thomas' and vintage vehicle rallies, making it a dynamic destination for rail enthusiasts and families alike.
A brief summary to Buckinghamshire Railway Centre
- Quainton Road Station, Station Rd, Aylesbury, Quainton, HP22 4BY, GB
- +441296655720
- Visit website
- Duration: 3 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 9:30 am-2 pm
- Tuesday 9:30 am-2 pm
- Wednesday 10:30 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9:30 am-2 pm
- Friday 9:30 am-2 pm
- Sunday 10:30 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Book tickets early for popular events like 'Day Out with Thomas' to avoid disappointment.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the site is extensive and involves a fair amount of walking.
- Visit on steaming days (Sundays April to October) to experience live steam train rides.
- The Railway Cafe is open Monday to Friday for breakfast and lunch with free entry to the Visitor Centre.
- Check the centre’s website for special event dates and train ride schedules before planning your visit.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Train and Bus
Take a train to Aylesbury station, then catch the Arriva bus service 55 or 55A towards Quainton. The bus journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes. Note that bus services run less frequently on weekends and public holidays. Tickets cost around £5-£7 GBP.
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Car
Driving from central Aylesbury to the Buckinghamshire Railway Centre takes about 20 minutes via local roads. Ample free parking is available on-site. Note that the centre is set in a rural area with limited street lighting, so plan your visit during daylight hours.
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Taxi
Taxis from Aylesbury town center to the railway centre take approximately 20 minutes, costing around £20-£30 GBP depending on time of day. Pre-booking is recommended, especially for return trips.
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Walking
Walking to the centre is not practical from nearby towns due to distance and rural terrain. However, once on-site, paths are well maintained and accessible for most visitors.
Buckinghamshire Railway Centre location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Buckinghamshire Railway Centre
A Heritage Railway Museum in Buckinghamshire Countryside
Set amidst the rolling fields near the village of Quainton, the Buckinghamshire Railway Centre occupies a sprawling 25-acre site dedicated to preserving and celebrating Britain's rich railway history. The centre is home to three operational railway lines and a vast array of locomotives, rolling stock, and railway artifacts at various stages of restoration. Visitors can explore the extensive grounds, which include outdoor exhibits, restoration sheds, and a miniature railway that delights children and adults alike.The Iconic Glass-Roofed Visitor Centre
At the heart of the site stands the magnificent Visitor Centre, a remarkable glass-roofed structure originally part of Oxford’s Rewley Road railway station, carefully dismantled and relocated here in 2002. This centre houses a café, gift shop, and a wealth of historic exhibits including a Victorian Royal Dining car and other beautifully restored carriages. The café is open Monday to Friday for breakfast, lunch, and snacks, offering a cozy spot to relax and soak up the railway ambiance.Immersive Steam Train Experiences
The centre comes alive on steaming days, typically Sundays from April to October and selected special events throughout the year, when historic steam locomotives are fired up and ready to take passengers on nostalgic rides. These journeys cover a short but enchanting half-mile route, allowing visitors to experience the sights, sounds, and smells of the Age of Steam. Themed family events such as 'Day Out with Thomas' and festive specials add to the lively atmosphere, attracting visitors of all ages.Events, Enthusiasts, and Community Spirit
Beyond regular steam days, the centre hosts a variety of events including vintage transport weekends, bus rallies, and classic car shows, making it a hub for enthusiasts of all kinds. The spacious grounds and showfield provide ample space for car clubs and community gatherings. The centre also offers unique venue hire options for weddings, parties, and conferences, blending historic charm with modern facilities.Exploring the Collection and Restoration Work
Visitors can wander through restoration sheds to witness ongoing preservation projects, gaining insight into the craftsmanship and dedication involved in maintaining these historic machines. The centre’s collection includes a wide range of locomotives and carriages, each telling a story of Britain’s railway heritage. The miniature railway and garden railway add whimsical touches, perfect for families and photographers.Planning Your Visit and Accessibility
The Buckinghamshire Railway Centre is open on Sundays and special event days for full museum access and train rides, while the Visitor Centre and café welcome guests Monday to Friday with free entry. Typical visits last three to four hours, allowing ample time to explore exhibits, enjoy rides, and participate in events. Facilities include restrooms, a café, picnic areas, and ample parking. The site is family-friendly and suitable for visitors of all ages, with accessible paths and amenities.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Blue Plaque: J.R.R. Tolkien
25.1 km
The Oxford home where Tolkien wrote The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings, marked by a historic blue plaque.
Magdalen Bridge
25.2 km
Historic stone bridge over the River Cherwell, blending centuries of architecture, culture, and Oxford traditions.
Oxford Botanic Garden
25.3 km
Explore the Oxford Botanic Garden, the oldest botanic garden in the UK, where diverse plant species and serene landscapes await your discovery.
City Sightseeing Oxford
25.4 km
Discover Oxford’s rich history and stunning architecture with City Sightseeing Oxford’s immersive bus tours for an unforgettable travel experience.
The Oxford Ghost Tour
25.4 km
Discover the haunted history of Oxford with The Oxford Ghost Tour, where chilling stories and eerie legends await every curious traveler.
Oxford University Museum of Natural History
25.4 km
Explore the captivating Oxford University Museum of Natural History, where science and history come alive in a stunning architectural setting.
The Queen's College
25.4 km
Baroque splendour on Oxford's High Street—a historic college of architectural excellence and academic prestige.
New College Ln
25.5 km
Explore the enchanting New College Lane in Oxford, where history, architecture, and student life come together in a picturesque setting.
Bridge of Sighs
25.5 km
An iconic covered bridge connecting Hertford College’s quadrangles, blending Gothic charm with Oxford’s academic spirit.
Bodleian Library
25.5 km
Discover the Bodleian Library, an iconic historical landmark in Oxford, home to millions of texts and a hub for cultural events and tours.
Clarendon Building
25.5 km
An iconic neoclassical landmark in Oxford’s academic heart, blending historic grandeur with university tradition on Broad Street.
Weston Library
25.5 km
Explore the Weston Library in Oxford - a cultural gem featuring rare manuscripts, stunning architecture, and a vibrant atmosphere for book lovers.
Bodleian Old Library
25.6 km
Discover the Bodleian Old Library, a historic treasure in Oxford, steeped in knowledge and architectural beauty, inviting all to explore its literary wonders.
Radcliffe Camera
25.6 km
A majestic 18th-century neoclassical rotunda, the Radcliffe Camera is Oxford’s iconic library landmark and a symbol of academic heritage.
The Sheldonian Theatre
25.6 km
Explore the architectural beauty and cultural significance of The Sheldonian Theatre, a historic performing arts gem in the heart of Oxford.
Unmissable attractions to see
Quainton Windmill
1.5 km
Historic 19th-century tower windmill in Quainton, beautifully restored and still producing flour in Buckinghamshire’s charming countryside.
Waddesdon Manor
2.6 km
Explore the grandeur of Waddesdon Manor, a French Renaissance château with stunning gardens, rich art collections, and vibrant cultural events in Buckinghamshire.
Finemere Wood
3.2 km
Explore Finemere Wood, an ancient Buckinghamshire woodland alive with history, wildflowers, butterflies, and tranquil nature walks.
Flint House, Buckinghamshire
4.1 km
Discover Waddesdon Manor’s grand French Renaissance architecture, exquisite art collections, and enchanting Victorian gardens in the heart of Buckinghamshire.
National Trust - Claydon
6.6 km
Discover the grandeur of Georgian Claydon House and vibrant Courtyard nestled in Buckinghamshire’s historic countryside.
Claydon Estate
6.6 km
Discover the charm of Claydon Estate’s Georgian courtyard, historic National Trust house, and tranquil Buckinghamshire countryside.
Discover Bucks Museum
9.4 km
Explore Buckinghamshire’s rich heritage and family-friendly interactive exhibits at Discover Bucks Museum in historic Aylesbury.
Brill Windmill
9.9 km
Explore Brill Windmill, a majestic 17th-century post mill perched atop Buckinghamshire’s hills, embodying centuries of rural milling heritage and craftsmanship.
National Trust - Boarstall Tower
12.4 km
Explore Boarstall Tower, a stunning 14th-century moated gatehouse steeped in medieval legend and civil war history, set in serene Buckinghamshire gardens.
St Rumbold's Well
15.3 km
Discover the ancient sacred spring of Saint Rumbold, a medieval pilgrimage site steeped in legend and local heritage in Buckingham.
National Trust - Buckingham Chantry Chapel
15.6 km
Discover Buckingham’s oldest building, a medieval chapel with a Norman doorway, rich history, and a charming second-hand bookshop.
Bicester Heritage
15.6 km
Explore the UK’s premier historic motoring campus where vintage cars, aviation heritage, and passionate craftsmanship come alive.
Buckinghamshire Military Museum Trust
15.6 km
Explore centuries of Buckinghamshire’s military heritage within the historic Old Gaol, a unique museum blending local history and immersive exhibits.
Buckingham Old Gaol
15.7 km
Explore Buckingham’s historic former prison, a compact museum revealing the town’s rich social and legal heritage through immersive exhibits.
Bicester Village
16.0 km
Luxury designer outlet village with 150+ boutiques, up to 70% off, and festive charm near Oxford.
Essential places to dine
The Five Arrows
2.2 km
Boutique neo-Tudor charm with refined dining and peaceful gardens beside historic Waddesdon Manor in Buckinghamshire.
CANALETTO
4.9 km
Authentic Italian dining with Mediterranean charm in a warm, welcoming atmosphere on Bicester Road, Kingswood.
The Pilgrim Pub
5.2 km
A Michelin Guide village pub in North Marston serving seasonal local dishes with a warm community spirit and inviting beer garden.
Miller & Carter Aylesbury
5.9 km
Savor expertly aged steaks in a spacious, welcoming setting with attentive service at Miller & Carter Aylesbury.
The Bell At Hardwick, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire
6.6 km
A charming gastropub blending traditional British hospitality with modern dining in the heart of Hardwick village.
Seven Stars
8.7 km
Historic charm meets warm hospitality and delicious English cuisine in the heart of Ledbury at The Seven Stars pub and hotel.
Glaze Steakhouse
9.7 km
Aylesbury’s upscale steakhouse delivering expertly cooked prime cuts in a stylish bar and grill setting with personalized service.
Rococo Lounge
9.7 km
Aylesbury’s eclectic lounge blending British classics with vegan and gluten-free delights in a funky, family-friendly setting.
Broad Leys - Aylesbury
10.5 km
Historic charm meets modern comfort at The Broad Leys, a welcoming pub and guesthouse just outside Aylesbury town centre.
The Angel Restaurant
11.2 km
A charming seafood restaurant in Long Crendon blending historic ambiance with fresh, creative cuisine and warm hospitality.
The Old Thatched Inn
11.2 km
A charming thatched gastropub in Adstock offering quality local cuisine and cozy countryside ambiance.
The COURTYARD
12.6 km
A lively family-friendly restaurant and live music venue with BBQ, beer garden, and cocktail bar in the heart of Weston Turville.
The Woolpack
13.0 km
A vibrant gastropub blending traditional British charm with modern dining in the heart of Stoke Mandeville.
Beefeater Buckingham
14.2 km
Classic British steakhouse and family-friendly grill in Buckingham offering hearty meals, welcoming service, and a lively casual atmosphere.
The Five Bells
14.2 km
A welcoming British gastropub in Weston Turville offering hearty classics, friendly service, and a cozy village atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Rabbit Retail
8.0 km
A charming boutique in Aylesbury offering unique gifts, eco-friendly products, and expert care for rabbits and their devoted owners.
Beautifully Different Winslow
9.1 km
Discover original flair and stylish ladies' fashion at Beautifully Different Winslow, a charming boutique in the heart of Buckinghamshire’s historic market town.
The Vintage Shop
9.4 km
Discover timeless antiques and unique vintage treasures in Aylesbury’s welcoming and affordable Vintage Shop.
Shop of magical requirements
9.4 km
Discover a whimsical world of magical memorabilia and enchanting treasures at Aylesbury’s unique Shop of Magical Requirements.
B&M Home Store
9.5 km
Affordable home goods and furniture with convenient shopping hours in the heart of Aylesbury’s retail park.
Aylesbury Shopping Park
9.6 km
Aylesbury Shopping Park offers diverse shops, eateries, and leisure facilities just minutes from town centre with convenient parking and family-friendly amenities.
House of Fraser
9.6 km
A central department store in Aylesbury’s Friars Square offering diverse fashion, homewares, and beauty products with a welcoming shopping environment.
The Works
9.6 km
Discover affordable arts, crafts, books, and gifts for all ages at The Works in Aylesbury’s Hale Leys Shopping Centre.
Friars Square Shopping Centre
9.7 km
Aylesbury’s premier shopping destination offering diverse stores, modern amenities, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of town.
One Beyond Aylesbury
9.7 km
Discover unbeatable bargains and a vast range of essentials at One Beyond Aylesbury, your go-to discount store in the heart of Hale Leys.
Hale Leys Shopping Centre
9.7 km
A historic and vibrant shopping centre in Aylesbury, blending heritage architecture with diverse retail and dining experiences.
Aylesbury Eco Store
9.8 km
Discover sustainable, zero-waste shopping at Aylesbury Eco Store, your local hub for eco-friendly living on High Street.
QD Aylesbury
9.8 km
Affordable home, garden, and lifestyle essentials with unique finds and community spirit in the heart of Aylesbury.
Crystal Willow
13.5 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Crystal Willow in Stoke Mandeville, the perfect stop for memorable souvenirs.
Meadow Walk Shopping Centre
15.6 km
A charming compact shopping centre in Buckingham featuring independent shops, cafes, and convenient parking in a friendly community setting.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Cotton Wheel
7.1 km
Aylesbury’s friendly neighborhood pub serving fresh, affordable food and drinks in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Bugle Horn
9.0 km
A charming and cozy country pub in Hartwell serving hearty British classics with a warm, inviting atmosphere.
The Watermead Inn
9.1 km
A charming lakeside pub in Aylesbury offering hearty British and international dishes with friendly service and scenic views.
The Rockwood
9.5 km
A warm, contemporary pub in Aylesbury blending traditional charm with fresh local flavors and lively community spirit.
Emperors Lounge
9.5 km
Lively late-night bar in Aylesbury with great music, friendly staff, and a vibrant dance floor for an unforgettable night out.
The Feathers Aylesbury
9.5 km
A lively Aylesbury pub blending traditional charm, modern sports viewing, and vibrant entertainment in the heart of Kingsbury Square.
The King's Head, Aylesbury
9.6 km
Historic 15th-century coaching inn in Aylesbury with authentic Chiltern Brewery ales, hearty British fare, and a charming cobbled courtyard.
Craftyard Aylesbury
9.8 km
A stylish, family-run craft beer and gin bar in Aylesbury with an industrial-chic vibe inspired by London’s vibrant streets.
Old Millwrights Arms
10.3 km
A lively, dog-friendly Aylesbury pub serving hearty roasts, wood-fired pizzas, and a fine selection of ales in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Buckinghamshire Yeoman
11.9 km
A lively, family- and pet-friendly pub in Aylesbury offering hearty meals, great sports viewing, and a welcoming local atmosphere.
The Swan
14.9 km
A charming traditional pub and inn in Little Kimble offering hearty fare, cozy rooms, and a warm welcome amidst scenic Buckinghamshire countryside.
The Oak, Aston Clinton
15.4 km
A historic 500-year-old thatched village pub offering rustic home-cooked meals, local ales, and warm family hospitality in scenic Aston Clinton.
The Kings Head Coffee & Gin Bar
15.7 km
Historic pub meets vibrant coffee and gin bar with a sunny courtyard garden in the heart of Buckingham’s Market Hill.
The Grand Junction
15.7 km
A vibrant Mediterranean-inspired pub in Buckingham with wood-fired pizzas, cozy bar, private function room, and charming courtyard dining.
Dukes Wine Bar
16.8 km
Cozy wine bar in Princes Risborough offering a curated wine list, creative menu, and charming courtyard for relaxed socializing.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Mirage Aylesbury
9.4 km
Experience Aylesbury’s vibrant nightlife at Mirage, a lively nightclub offering music, dancing, and late-night fun in the heart of town.
TWC
15.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and energetic party scene at TWC, Aylesbury’s premier nightclub destination.
Pink Punters
20.9 km
Milton Keynes’ dynamic multi-room nightclub blending diverse music, vibrant crowds, and a lively late-night party atmosphere.
Garudaa
22.5 km
A spacious, welcoming gentlemen’s club in Milton Keynes offering VIP areas, game rooms, and late-night entertainment in a relaxed, darkly lit setting.
Fever Oxford
25.8 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife at Fever, a multi-room nightclub blending live DJs, dynamic music, and a lively party atmosphere.
Plush Oxford
25.9 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant, inclusive nightlife hotspot with great music, cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere at Plush Oxford.
The Bridge Nightclub
26.3 km
Oxford’s lively student-focused nightclub with diverse music, multiple dance floors, and a spacious pub garden for late-night socializing.
ATIK Oxford
26.3 km
Oxford’s largest nightclub with diverse music rooms, vibrant atmosphere, and strong security, offering a late-night hub for students and locals alike.
Oxford Leisure Ltd
26.3 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife with dynamic music, themed events, and a lively dance floor at Oxford Leisure Ltd.
Kiss Bar
26.3 km
An intimate late-night club in Oxford known for its vibrant atmosphere and close-knit party scene until its recent closure.
Penthouse Playrooms
27.6 km
A vibrant adult nightclub in Dunstable offering themed events and lively weekend entertainment for an energetic night out.
The Venue, Bucks
28.9 km
Experience High Wycombe’s vibrant nightlife at The Venue, Bucks – a lively nightclub with great music, friendly staff, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Trilogy Nightclub High Wycombe
28.9 km
A lively multi-room nightclub in High Wycombe offering dynamic music, vibrant crowds, and late-night fun on Paul’s Row.
Diligence
31.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic music scene at Diligence, High Wycombe’s energetic nightclub on London Road.
VOLTS NIGHT CLUB/ COPPER BAR
33.7 km
A vibrant nightlife hotspot in Hemel Hempstead, Volts Night Club offers energetic music, friendly staff, and a lively dance floor for unforgettable nights out.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Family Friendly
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Fun-filled
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Family Friendly
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly