Didcot Railway Centre
Didcot Railway Centre
4
Speciality MuseumsRail Services
Wednesday
10:30 AM - 4:00 PM
Thursday
10:30 AM - 4:00 PM
Friday
10:30 AM - 4:00 PM
Saturday
10:30 AM - 4:00 PM
Sunday
10:30 AM - 4:00 PM
About
Didcot Railway Centre is a living history museum of the Great Western Railway set in 21 acres alongside Didcot Parkway Station. From Brunel's Broad Gauge to the modern trains running past, Didcot Railway Centre's unique collection of buildings, locomotives, carriages, wagons and other artefacts shows how the Great Western Railway developed to be the premier railway company of the 1940s.
Duration: More than 3 hours
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  • davjno80
    Andover, United Kingdom35 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Thoroughly enjoyable day out
    Initially only went because our youngest grandson loves trains, but it was a pleasant surprise as it was a great day out. Lots to see and do for all ages, with very knowledgeable and friendly staff. We went on a Victorian steam day and there were two trains running. You can have as many rides as you like. There was also Easter painting and an egg from the Easter Bunny all included in the price. Our grandchildren aged 11, 6 and 23 months all loved it and had lots of fun, as well as learning new things. Would thoroughly recommend and will be returning.
    Thans for the nice review - come back soon!
    Written 17 April 2023
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited April 2023
    Written 11 April 2023
  • Stewart C
    Chatham, United Kingdom1,076 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    A good day out with much to see and do, enthusiastic staff.
    We visited the Didcot Railway Centre on a Wednesday in June which was one of their scheduled steam days. We travelled by train and the railway centre is immediately adjacent to Didcot Parkway station and accessed via a dedicated section of the station subway. We believe that (pay & display) parking is available in the vicinity of the station if you are travelling by road. The railway centre has a collection of steam & diesel locomotives, carriages and wagons mostly with a ‘Great Western Railway’ pedigree. In addition it has some interesting museums and a good and (working on the day of our visit), exhibition on railway signalling. If you are in need of refreshment there is a fairly spacious and comprehensive café here with both inside and outside seating. The centrepiece is arguably the former Didcot steam shed, a cavernous building where you will find rows of main line steam locomotives. It is possible to view the footplate of one of these giants and an audio soundtrack describes the workings of the locomotive. Near to the café is a well-stocked museum with many fascinating exhibits showing the history of the Great Western Railway. The signalling centre had some good examples of both old and new signalling equipment and here you can pull mechanical levers to operate signals, and witness demonstrations of how a 1960s era control panel guided trains through the Swindon area. The air raid shelter is worth a visit, see how people would have sheltered from the wartime air raids and a soundtrack helps you relive what must have been a frightful experience. A separate audios soundtrack describes various items displayed in glass cases around the room with each item illuminated in turn to aid identification. The carriage shed had some examples of different vintages of carriages some undergoing restoration. A raised platform allows the visitor to peer into the plush interiors of some of the more elaborate vehicles and others like the former mail coach may be entered into. There are two running lines which on the day of our visit were running both steam and diesel hauled shuttle trains and visitors have unlimited us of these during their visit. They can be used to get the visitor from one end of the railway centre to the other or you can make a round trip by changing trains at one end and returning on the other. An outside picnic area and play area for younger children is available where the visitor can watch the mainline trains pass on the lines to and from Oxford. A shop stocked with all manner of souvenirs of your visit is available and this is worth a visit if only to see the overhead basket system sadly not working on the day of our visit. A special mention to all the staff who work here as they were all very friendly and helpful and more than willing to spend a few minutes answering all manner of railway related queries and explaining the use of various types of equipment These made for an enjoyable day and we will be returning later in the year with our train enthusiast grandson for a second visit.
    Thank you for your extensive review. I am pleased you enjoyed your day at Didcot. Let me know when you bring your grandson and we will show him around our workshops as well.
    Written 18 September 2023
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited June 2023
    Written 30 June 2023
  • Mesh
    Stratford-upon-Avon, United Kingdom206 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Didcot day
    This is a fabulous place to visit, book ahead but you don't have to. On non steaming days you can wander around, through the sheds at leisure. Enthusiastic and friendly volunteers discuss anything, ask questions interaction is great. There are facilities, a cafe, a picnic area. A small shop that is not over priced
    Thank you for the nice review.
    Written 18 September 2023
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited June 2023
    Travelled as a couple
    Written 30 June 2023
  • clareinnyc
    New York City, New York29 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Perfect Family Day Out
    What a wonderful day we had at Didcot Railway Center. We've been several times before, but today I was reminded that experiencing a ride on a real, live steam train is magical experience. My little niece was mesmerized and spent a happy day chatting with the amazing team (special thanks to Jake and John!), exploring the hands-on switches and levers, and having a great run around and play on the little wooden trains. What a wonderful day!
    Thank you. I will pass your thanks on to Jake and John.
    Written 18 September 2023
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited July 2023
    Travelled with family
    Written 11 July 2023
  • Margo Woollard
    Ashford, United Kingdom122 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Great day out
    Great day out enjoyed by all. It’s good that it is also dog friendly! It was initially a little difficult to find but with the help of plenty of signs and an email from Didcot prior to arrival, we found our way to the centre.
    Thank you for visiting and taking the time to review us. Parking can be an issue but it is out of our control. Visit again soon.
    Written 18 September 2023
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited July 2023
    Travelled as a couple
    Written 31 July 2023
  • Sally M
    37 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Excellent day out, loads to see and great steam train experience. Lovely staff
    Lovely day out at this great working museum with amazing steam trains. Excellent staff, especially Jake the Station Master who was brilliant and our lovely train guard too. We'll laid out and tons to see and enjoy. Loved it all. Lots of walking but worth it.
    Thank you - I will pass your compliment on to Jake who is a volunteer.
    Written 18 September 2023
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited August 2023
    Travelled as a couple
    Written 13 August 2023
  • spark0906
    Dover, United Kingdom79 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Good day out.
    My boy is obsessed with trains so I thought it would be good to take him here. There is lots to see here and the site stretches out for quite a distance so can fill a good few hours. The staff we spoke to were knowledgeable and there is lots of information around. Everything seems very well preserved and well looked after. We were actually there on a non-running day (although it was still a good day out) so will definitely return.
    Thank you for your nice review - appreciated!
    Written 18 September 2023
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited August 2023
    Travelled with family
    Written 13 August 2023
  • Jeremy W
    Wroughton, United Kingdom631 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    GWR heaven
    A large and varied collection of GWR engines coaches wagons and every thing else. Most engines unfortunately no longer have a current boiler certificate. Fund raising seems to be prioritising replicas rather than restoring them. Something that is now very expensive with overhauls costing up to a million pounds. Positive. Volunteer Staff were polite very helpful and knowedgable. Unlimited choice of two short train rides in original GWR coaches. One with Pendennis Castle which with coal at nearly £500 a ton was not a cheap engine to steam on a short train. Able to walk anywhare. Small items collection Signal display. Negatives The hot food was poor. Chips Ok but 'Cornish' pasty cheap bland. Bought down to the lowest price. Lost a point. it should be noticed that as an original loco shed there are pits between the tracks which are not fenced off. if you are with children beware of this. Normal modern rail practise is for them to be fenced off. Plus there is no ramped access its a set of steps. This is due for a change.
    Hi I appreciate the pints you made. We have found that putting barriers up around the pits does not help as the whole site has rails to fall over and holes to fall down, so a warning of the dangers on entering the site hi lights the risks and raises awareness.
    Written 18 September 2023
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited August 2023
    Written 15 August 2023
  • Andy F
    Devizes, United Kingdom1,240 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Great Day Out
    If you're into steam locos and/ or the history of the GWR, this is a definite must-go. Whilst there are only two very short stretches of track to ride on, the steam locos they have operating, or resting in the shed, are impressive. You can walk most places around the yards, so you can get up close to locos etc. There's plenty to see and do for adults and children - engine works, carriage works, signal centre, shops, cafe etc. The cafe is a bit basic and based round pasties and chips, with very shouty staff, but everything else is really good. A grand day out & highly recommended.
    A real railway cafe atmosphere! Thanks for the nice review, it means a lot to us.
    Written 18 September 2023
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited August 2023
    Travelled solo
    Written 18 August 2023
  • Jeremy J
    Abergavenny, United Kingdom504 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Fabulous for all ages
    It’s a railway preservation centre more than a museum, a real hands on experience with live steam, rides, climb aboard and so much to see, to do and to photograph. Add great cafe, shops, picnic areas with playgrounds and so many exhibits this is both a rail enthusiasts’ and a childrens’ dream, great for all ages. You’ll want to spend most of the day here. Fantastic… oh, and staffed by a team of exceptionally interested and knowledgeable volunteers. The best thing to do in Oxford for sure
    Brilliant review - so glad you enjoyed your visit.
    Written 18 September 2023
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited August 2023
    Travelled with family
    Written 19 August 2023
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4.0
4.0 of 5 bubbles766 reviews
Excellent
415
Very good
220
Average
67
Poor
35
Terrible
29

Denis O
Southall, UK4 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Feb 2024 • Friends
This is a great place to visit , lots to see and do , the staff are very good and help full, the food is great , the day will fly by ,
went on two trains loved it, a must for all the family, lots to see ,
just looking at the old trains in action was just great, and all the old equipment they used for me as a old person i used to see it in
use when i was a kid, so it a must see and enjoy , i know i did,
saw lot of families enjoying them selves, loved the day
Written 21 February 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

flyingporcupine
Oxford, UK238 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Dec 2023
We always have a good day out at Didcot Railway Centre and we've been multiple times over the years, most recently for Steam Into Christmas which was an excellent experience (2023).

We can easily spend a whole day here. The new steam train playground is a really lovely addition.

I recommend taking a picnic if the weather is good - the cafe can get quite busy.
Written 2 January 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Sally G
1 contribution
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Dec 2023 • Family
What an amazing Christmas event! From the staff who met us at the entrance to the train drivers, guards onsite staff, the fantastic elves at the Father Christmas workshop and so much more. We had a day to remember and soooo many presents!!! Definitely going again next year. Thank you for a day to remember!
Written 2 January 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Kayleigh W
8 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Dec 2023 • Family
We came today for the Santa experience and it did not disappoint! Of all of the 7 years of Santa experiences we have been to at different venues this one was by far the best on we have been too! Both of our children had the best time and so did us adults! Very well planned and thought out with the friendliest staff. Steam train rides every 5 minutes so no long wait times for the children. So much to see! And so many presents along the way! Great day out and will be recommending to everyone I see!
Thank you Didcot, we will definitely be back.
Written 22 December 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

oxford city dog
Oxford, UK9 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Oct 2023 • Family
The Didcot Railway Centre is just one stop on the train from Oxford City train station. If you buy an off-peak day return, the cost is very reasonable. If you drive, there is a large car park opposite the Didcot train station. Oak and I took the train. The station was quite busy, so we walked to the far end of the platform. It was a lovely train and had air conditioning, which was great on a hot day. I took the opportunity to take a photo of Oak with the train. See below to see oak
Written 1 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for a kind review please come back in the Summer.
Written 4 December 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Millie024
Llantwit Major, UK532 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Oct 2023 • Couples
We last went here nearly 50 years ago, and remembering it fondly, were not disappointed.Atmospheric air raid shelter, interesting museum, and a wonderful display of huge engines and carriages. All staff very friendly and pleasant. Definitely recommend.
Written 19 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Mike S
Lincolnshire, UK319 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Sept 2023 • Couples
A great site for train buffs and their family. Lots to see and do and a lot of effort has gone in to making this a family friendly venue as well as a major preservation for the Great Western Railway.
Make sure to see the old Brunel wide gauge part
Written 18 September 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Keith P
Hemel Hempstead, UK58 contributions
3.0 of 5 bubbles
Sept 2023 • Couples
The centre is next to the station and entrance is via the station barriers with steps up to the site.
Train ride is about 5 minutes long maximum to the other end of the site and about 100yards from the entrance. A broad gauge system is at the far end of the site and is very interesting. Most engines of old GWR/BR were inside of shed and dificult to photograph. A small shop is on site and a couple of other small facilities of books and items for sale one in a coach at the back of the site next to a sidings. A good Restaurant with hot and cold food with reasonable charges.
A small museum on site as well although small worth looking at.
If traveling by car you are guided to the new Didcot Parkway Station car park and is about 10 to 15 minutes walk away, car park level 2 is exit by lift or you can climb the steps.
Car Park charges are £5 60 for 4 hours remember this is an AMPR car park so leave plenty of time to get back.
Written 6 September 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Flyer24341194581
4 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Aug 2023 • Solo
Steam Train rides, food, museum and a pleasant ambience of history and nostalgia. Excellent Gift shop
Written 5 September 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for the great review. We have many volunteers who work hard to give a good ambience and it is nice when it it noticed.
Written 18 September 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Jeremy J
Abergavenny, UK504 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Aug 2023 • Family
It’s a railway preservation centre more than a museum, a real hands on experience with live steam, rides, climb aboard and so much to see, to do and to photograph. Add great cafe, shops, picnic areas with playgrounds and so many exhibits this is both a rail enthusiasts’ and a childrens’ dream, great for all ages. You’ll want to spend most of the day here. Fantastic… oh, and staffed by a team of exceptionally interested and knowledgeable volunteers. The best thing to do in Oxford for sure
Written 20 August 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Brilliant review - so glad you enjoyed your visit.
Written 18 September 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

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DIDCOT RAILWAY CENTRE: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

Frequently Asked Questions about Didcot Railway Centre

Didcot Railway Centre is open:
  • Wed - Sun 10:30 AM - 4:00 PM


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