National Railway Museum York

A Celebration of British Railway Heritage

The National Railway Museum in York stands as a monumental tribute to the history and impact of rail transport in Britain. Housing the national collection of historically significant railway vehicles, it preserves over 100 locomotives and nearly 300 other items of rolling stock, all of which either ran on British railways or were built in the UK. From the sleek, record-breaking Mallard steam locomotive to the futuristic Japanese Bullet Train, the museum presents a comprehensive timeline of railway engineering and design.

Immersive Exhibits and Historic Spaces

Visitors enter the Great Hall to be greeted by a stunning array of railway legends, including the Duchess of Hamilton with its elegant art-deco design and the technology-packed Eurostar power car. The recently restored Station Hall, a Grade II-listed 150-year-old gallery, immerses guests in the atmosphere of a busy Victorian station, featuring the world's most extensive collection of royal carriages alongside photographs, artworks, and oral histories that explore railway life.

Engaging Experiences for All Ages

The museum offers hands-on learning in Wonderlab: The Bramall Gallery, where families and curious minds can engage with live experiments and interactive challenges that bring engineering principles to life. The model railway layout in the Great Hall delights visitors daily with different trains running, maintained by dedicated volunteers. Regular demonstrations, including authentic signalling displays and storytelling sessions, deepen the connection to railway history and technology.

A Living Museum with Rich Stories

Beyond the glamour of famous locomotives, the museum reveals the stories of lesser-known engines like Coppernob, bearing scars from wartime bombing, and Bauxite, showing evidence of hard work and rustic repairs. The North Shed houses an astonishing collection of railway memorabilia including models, silverware, signs, and sculptures, and offers a viewing balcony overlooking real trains on the main line, blending history with the present.

Visitor Amenities and Accessibility

Open daily from 10:00 to 17:00 (except December 24–26), the museum provides free admission with optional advance booking recommended during busy periods. Facilities include a cafe serving hot meals and afternoon tea, a gift shop with railway-themed merchandise, accessible toilets, and seating areas. The museum is committed to welcoming all visitors, including those with disabilities and families with children, ensuring a comfortable and educational visit.

Ongoing Transformation and Community Engagement

The museum is undergoing a masterplan transformation to enhance visitor experience, including building a new Central Hall to unite Station Hall and Great Hall. It also actively records oral histories, including those from the LGBTQIA+ community, enriching its cultural heritage narrative. The National Railway Museum remains a vibrant hub for railway enthusiasts, historians, and curious travelers alike, celebrating over 50 years of preserving and sharing Britain’s railway legacy.