Journey Through Time at the National Railway Museum York
Explore the National Railway Museum York, where history and technology collide through iconic locomotives and engaging exhibits.
The National Railway Museum in York invites tourists to explore a rich tapestry of railway history, showcasing iconic locomotives and interactive exhibits that enthrall visitors of all ages.
A brief summary to National Railway Museum York
- Leeman Rd, York, YO26 4XJ, GB
- +443300580058
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays to avoid crowds for a more relaxed experience.
- Check the schedule for special events and exhibitions that may coincide with your visit.
- Plan for at least 3-4 hours to fully explore the extensive exhibits and activities.
- Make use of the free guided tours available for deeper insights into the exhibits.
- Don't miss the outdoor exhibits, which offer a unique perspective on historical locomotives.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are in the city center, head north along the main street, Station Road, until you reach the York Railway Station. Once at the station, exit the main entrance and turn left onto Leeman Road. Continue walking straight for about 10 minutes. The National Railway Museum will be on your left at Leeman Rd, York YO26 4XJ.
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Bus
From the city center, you can take a bus from the Piccadilly bus stop. Look for the number 5 or 6 bus which goes towards the Railway Museum. Board the bus and get off at the stop named 'Railway Museum'. The museum is just a short walk from the bus stop, straight ahead on Leeman Road.
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Bicycle
If you have access to a bicycle, you can cycle to the National Railway Museum. From the city center, follow the signs to the cycle path along Leeman Road. This path will take you directly to the museum. There are bike racks available for parking your bicycle upon arrival.
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Taxi or Rideshare
For a more convenient option, consider taking a taxi or rideshare service. Simply provide the driver with the address: 'Leeman Rd, York YO26 4XJ'. The journey from the city center should take approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic.
Discover more about National Railway Museum York
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Historic England - York Office
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Explore the Historic England - York Office, a hub for heritage preservation in the heart of York, where history meets contemporary conservation efforts.
St. Leonard's Hospital
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Explore the evocative ruins of York’s largest medieval hospital, where healing met faith in a grand historic sanctuary.
Anglian Tower
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Discover York’s rare Anglo-Saxon watchtower, a unique stone relic woven into ancient Roman walls and shrouded in centuries of history.
Bootham Bar
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Explore Bootham Bar, York’s medieval gateway with Roman roots, historic portcullis, and stunning views of the city’s ancient walls and Minster.
York Gifts and Souvenirs
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Explore York Gifts and Souvenirs for locally crafted treasures and unique gifts that capture the essence of York's rich history and culture.
Best of Britain – Yorkshire Day Tours (formally BOBH)
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Discover the enchanting landscapes and rich heritage of Yorkshire with personalized tours from Best of Britain – Yorkshire Day Tours.
The Norman House
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Discover York’s oldest medieval house, a Norman stone residence with rare surviving walls and a Norman window hidden behind Stonegate.
Ouse Bridge
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Historic Ouse Bridge in York spans the River Ouse, blending medieval heritage with 19th-century architecture and city life.
Roman Bath
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Discover ancient Roman baths beneath a lively York pub, blending history and hospitality in the heart of the city.
The Cathedral and Metropolitical Church of St Peter in York
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A soaring Gothic masterpiece in the heart of York, where 1,400 years of faith, history, and light-filled architecture converge in one of England’s greatest cathedrals.
Roman Column
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A 7.6-metre Roman column where Constantine may have been declared Emperor, standing in the shadow of York Minster since 1971.
York Minster
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Discover the grandeur of York Minster, a stunning Gothic cathedral steeped in history and architectural brilliance, perfect for visitors seeking cultural immersion.
Parliament St
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York's vibrant shopping street where Victorian commerce meets medieval heritage and market tradition.
The York Dungeon
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Experience the chilling tales of York's past at The York Dungeon, where history, horror, and entertainment intersect for an unforgettable adventure.
Medieval Walls
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Walk England’s longest medieval walls, tracing 2,000 years of York’s history with stunning city views and iconic fortified gateways.
Unmissable attractions to see
Miniature Railway
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A charming miniature railway ride nestled within York’s National Railway Museum, blending family fun with historic railway heritage.
The Ghost Bus Tours York
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Dame Judi Dench Walk
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A peaceful riverside stroll in York honoring Dame Judi Dench, blending historic views with tranquil urban nature.
St Olave's Church York
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Discover York’s medieval St Olave’s Church, a tranquil sanctuary rich in Viking heritage, stunning stained glass, and centuries of history.
Museum Gardens
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Discover York Museum Gardens: a historic botanical oasis blending medieval ruins, lush greenery, and vibrant community life in the city centre.
York Observatory
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Explore Yorkshire’s oldest working observatory nestled in York’s scenic Museum Gardens, home to historic telescopes and star clocks.
Barker Tower
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Yorkshire Museum
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York's Tansy Beetle Mural
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A vibrant street art tribute in York celebrating the rare, shimmering green Tansy Beetle and its fragile riverside habitat.
Multangular Tower
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Explore York’s iconic ten-sided Roman tower blending ancient military might with medieval defense, nestled in serene Museum Gardens.
Micklegate Bar
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Hooting Owl Distillery York
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York’s first city distillery: where craft gin, rum and vodka meet myth, magic and a touch of owl-inspired flair in a stylish bar-lounge.
Black window cat
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Locked in Games York
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York Explore Library and Archive
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York’s central library and city archives in a striking 1920s building, with books, study spaces, a café and regular free community events.
Essential places to dine
Roots York
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The Rise
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Modern British dining with a Yorkshire twist in York’s only five-star hotel, featuring an open kitchen, terrace views, and award-winning afternoon tea.
The Star Inn The City
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Partisan
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Skosh
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Inventive small plates, global flavors, and theatrical kitchen views in intimate York setting.
Delrio's Restaurant
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Experience authentic Italian and Sardinian cuisine in York’s cozy cellar setting, where passion and tradition create unforgettable flavors.
Brew & Brownie
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Cozy family-run café in York serving locally inspired breakfasts, artisan coffee, and indulgent brownies in a rustic, welcoming setting.
Kapadokya
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Tomahawk Steakhouse York
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The Whippet Inn
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Casa Brazilian Rodizio
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The Ivy St Helen's Square York
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Bill's York Restaurant
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The Botanist York
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Kennedy's Bar & Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Hidden Treasures
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The Imaginarium
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The Yorkshire Soap Company - York
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Greybear
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Käthe Wohlfahrt
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Snowhome
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Rookscroft
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York Minster Shop
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Paper Doll
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The Cat Gallery
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SOCTOPUS
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York Souvenir's
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Cello by Collectables
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York Souvenirs and Gifts
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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The Maltings
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Lendal Cellars
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Revolution York
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The Punch Bowl
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Tank & Paddle York
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Evil Eye
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Slug & Lettuce - Swinegate York
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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Flares - York
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Ziggy's Bar & Nightclub
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Bar 55 York
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Popworld York
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BlueBox
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Kuda
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Big Fellas Nightclub
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The Lab Nightclub Leeds
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Disco Stu's
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The Key Club
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PRYZM
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