Didcot Railway Centre

“A very enjoyable day at the Railway centre. If you like Great Western locomotives then this is a must. The number of locomotives in an original GWR setting is fantastic. Two small running lines allows some train rides behind GWR steam.”

“We went there for the new year's day steam day. Excellent stuff. The staff and Volunteers are amazing, one lady even too this photo of all of us, even though she was busy cleaning these beautiful old engines. Wonderful stuff.”

“Visited the Didcot Railway centre, after travelling from Essex to kill a few hours before staying at a hotel for a couple of days. Cost approximately £21 each and what a surprise we had. It’s unusual to visit a site of this nature and have the ability to walk around everything. When I say everything actually walk on and across the tracks, get up close and personal with the restored steam engines and even play with some of the exhibit in the museum centre. The site covers about half a mile square, plenty of this to do and look at with about 15-20 restored engines. If engineering is your thing I would definitely recommend this place the smell is amazing. They’ve manages to restore the exhibits but maintaining their authenticity not compromising on the restoration. There is also an area that shows restored carriages dating back to the turn of the 19 century. They have 2 working engines an old Diesel and steam engines, both in their own tracks about half a miles long with old 1940/50 carriages. There’s a small museum with memorabilia to look at ranging from old platform ticket machines to cast iron signage from various locations from around the UK. Small cafe offering simple food, tea, coffee etc. All the staff were very friendly and helpful throughout the site. I believe most are volunteers (the ones operating the engines, Sundays only). A small shop with all train related and themed merchandise. Round the back of the main area there are further exhibits with old carriages and transport from the 30s/40s (an old Dennis fire appliance), a gentlemen selling antiquities, books and assorted model railway pieces. Great place to take kids with a purpose build playing area for them to explore. Considering this was a gap filler after travelling this was a fantastic afternoon out. We were on site for a good 4 hours, I would highly recommend visiting with young families, engineers and train enthusiasts. 5/5 very impressed.”