York
Railway history for all ages

Visiting the National Railway Museum with Kids

A guide for families exploring historic locomotives and interactive galleries in York.

The National Railway Museum offers an engaging experience for visitors of all ages to explore railway history and engineering through iconic carriages and interactive displays. Before your visit, we recommend checking the venue's official website for the latest details on family facilities, event schedules, and any specific policies for younger guests.

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National Railway Museum
3 family activities
Family visits at the National Railway Museum
The National Railway Museum offers a range of hands-on activities, play areas, and interactive history exhibits suitable for families.

The National Railway Museum provides families with an opportunity to explore 300 years of history through hands-on engagement and science-based learning. Visitors can expect interactive galleries alongside dedicated play spaces designed for different age groups. With storytelling sessions and technology-enhanced exploration, the museum offers a balanced experience for children to discover the evolution of engineering in York.

Family highlights

  • Indoor play area for children under 6
  • Outdoor play area for children over 6
  • Treasure Hunters app for interactive gallery exploration
  • Science shows and storytelling sessions
  • Miniature railway rides on selected dates
Family visit essentials
Useful expectations and practical guidance in one place

What children can see and do

Families can participate in science shows, explore collection objects through the Treasure Hunters app, and enjoy both indoor and outdoor play facilities.

Age guidance

The museum features specific play areas for children under 6 and over 6 years old.

Practical information

Entry to the museum is free. The site offers baby changing facilities in Great Hall and Station Hall, and breastfeeding is welcome throughout the museum. Staff can heat baby food and bottles, and children's meals are available at the café.

Family Activities and Resources
3 activities and resources

The National Railway Museum provides a variety of engaging resources for families to explore together. Visitors can enjoy dedicated indoor and outdoor play areas suited for different age groups, alongside interactive digital scavenger hunts designed to help everyone discover the history within the museum galleries.

Play area

Indoor Play Area

Up to age 5

An indoor area designed for younger children to explore and experiment.

Age guidance: For children under 6.

Practical information: Open for visitors.

Open official information

Play area

Outdoor Play Area

Ages 7+

An outdoor area where children can conquer gravity and enjoy more active play.

Age guidance: For children over 6.

Practical information: Open for visitors.

Open official information

Interactive experience

Treasure Hunters App

Explore the museum and investigate objects in the collection while competing with family members by taking photos and scoring points.

Practical information: Use your own mobile device to engage with the museum galleries.

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Guides, visitor info, and museum details in York
Find everything about National Railway Museum in one place, including tickets, opening hours, current exhibitions, location details, visitor tips, nearby attractions, and the latest museum updates. Use these pages to plan your visit, discover what to see, and get practical information before you go.
York

Explore Museums and Cultural Heritage Sites in York

Your essential guide to art and history in North Yorkshire.

Uncover the artistic legacy and historical narratives preserved in York. This resource provides clear pathways to browse local galleries, find specific museum categories, and locate exhibitions. Plan your cultural itinerary with detailed insights into the city's unique heritage.

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