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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.

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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
  • Environment icon 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.
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Getting There

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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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.

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