National Railway Museum

The National Railway Museum displays over 300 railway vehicles spread across two large exhibition halls, covering two centuries of British rail engineering. The collection ranges from early steam engines to modern high-speed trains, showing how transport evolved throughout the United Kingdom.

This museum opened in 1975 inside a former engine shed, timed to mark 150 years since the first public railway line ran between Stockton and Darlington. The Great Hall, its central building, originally served as a workshop where the North Eastern Railway maintained steam locomotives.

The royal train collection includes Queen Adelaide's 1842 carriage and Queen Elizabeth II's 1941 saloon car, reflecting the British monarchy's connection to rail travel.

This museum sits behind York Station on Leeman Road and opens daily from 10 AM to 6 PM with no admission charge. Several cafés and a picnic area offer breaks while you walk through the extensive halls.

A full-scale replica of Stephenson's Rocket and a section of the Channel Tunnel show the scale of British rail infrastructure. Visitors can step inside some vehicles and explore their interiors, including royal carriages and dining cars from different eras.

Location: City of York

Inception: 1975

Official opening: 1975

Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible

Fee: No

Part of: Science Museum Group

Address: Leeman Road, York, YO26 4XJ

Opening Hours: Wednesday-Sunday 10:00-17:00

Phone: +443300580058

Email: info@ScienceMuseumGroup.ac.uk

Website: https://railwaymuseum.org.uk

GPS coordinates: 53.95980,-1.09771

Latest update: December 13, 2025 17:53