East Anglian Railway Museum

Location

About

Located in Wakes Colne, England, the East Anglian Railway Museum is a unique and fascinating attraction for tourists and railway enthusiasts alike. The museum is dedicated to preserving the history of railways in East Anglia and provides visitors with an authentic experience of the region's transportation history.

The museum was established in 1968 and is situated on a former railway station site, which is still connected to the national rail network. The site covers 12 acres and includes a range of railway buildings, a large collection of locomotives, carriages, wagons, and other railway artifacts.

Visitors to the museum can expect to step back in time and experience the golden age of railways in East Anglia. The museum offers a range of activities and exhibits that are sure to captivate visitors of all ages. Some of the highlights of the museum include:

The Steam Rides
The museum offers visitors the chance to take a ride on a steam train, which is a unique experience that transports visitors back to the 19th and early 20th centuries. The steam train rides take visitors on a scenic journey through the beautiful countryside surrounding the museum, offering stunning views of the local area.

The Museum Exhibits
The museum has an extensive collection of railway artifacts, including locomotives, carriages, wagons, and other equipment. The exhibits are arranged in chronological order, allowing visitors to trace the development of railways in East Anglia over the years. Visitors can also explore the museum's historic buildings, such as the station buildings, signal box, and engine sheds.

Special Events
Throughout the year, the museum hosts a range of special events, including steam weekends, classic car shows, and vintage fairs. These events offer visitors the chance to experience the museum in a different way and to see some of the museum's exhibits in action.

The museum also has a gift shop and café, offering visitors the chance to take home a souvenir or enjoy a refreshment break during their visit.

Overall, the East Anglian Railway Museum is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in the history of railways in East Anglia. The museum's unique location, extensive collection of artifacts, and range of activities make it a fascinating and enjoyable experience for visitors of all ages.

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Things to do nearby

East Anglian Railway Museum is a fascinating destination for railway enthusiasts and history buffs. Located in Wakes Colne, a village in Essex, this museum offers a glimpse into the rich heritage of railway transportation in East Anglia. But what if you're looking to explore more than just the museum? In this article, we'll guide you through some of the best places and things to do nearby the East Anglian Railway Museum.

1. Hedingham Castle
Hedingham Castle is just a short drive away from the East Anglian Railway Museum, and it's definitely worth a visit. This Norman keep was built in the 12th century and is one of the best-preserved examples of its kind in England. You can explore the castle's towers, battlements, and secret passages, and enjoy the beautiful views from the top of the keep. The castle also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including medieval reenactments, jousting tournaments, and outdoor theater performances.

2. Colchester Zoo
If you're traveling with kids, or just love animals, Colchester Zoo is a must-visit destination. This award-winning zoo is home to over 260 species of animals, including big cats, primates, and exotic birds. You can also attend animal feeding sessions, watch daily displays, and even get up close and personal with some of the animals in the zoo's interactive exhibits.

3. Dedham Vale
For a more relaxing day out, head to Dedham Vale, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty that inspired the works of renowned English painter John Constable. This picturesque countryside area is dotted with pretty villages, rolling hills, and meandering rivers. You can take a leisurely stroll along the River Stour, rent a boat for a picnic on the water, or explore the quaint towns of Dedham and Flatford.

4. Tiptree Jam Factory
If you have a sweet tooth, you won't want to miss the Tiptree Jam Factory, located just a short drive from the East Anglian Railway Museum. This historic factory has been producing delicious jams, marmalades, and other preserves for over 130 years. You can take a tour of the factory, see how the preserves are made, and sample some of the delicious products in the onsite tearoom.

5. Constable Country Cycle Hire
For a unique way to explore the beautiful countryside surrounding the East Anglian Railway Museum, why not rent a bike from Constable Country Cycle Hire? This local company offers a range of bikes for hire, including electric bikes, and can even deliver them to your doorstep. You can cycle along scenic country lanes, stop at picturesque villages and pubs, and take in the stunning views of the Dedham Vale.

In conclusion, while the East Anglian Railway Museum is certainly the main attraction in the area, there are plenty of other places and things to do nearby that are well worth exploring. From historic castles and picturesque countryside to sweet treats and bike rides, there's something for everyone in this beautiful part of England.