National Railway Museum Launches Summer of Free Family Adventures
By Entertainment Correspondent
Families visiting the National Railway Museum this summer can enjoy a packed programme of free activities inspired by holidays, travel and adventure.
Running from 20 July to 6 September, the York attraction is inviting visitors to pick up a Summer Holiday Passport and collect stamps as they explore a range of interactive experiences across the museum.
Designed to capture the excitement of travelling by rail, the programme allows families to experience everything from countryside escapes and traditional seaside fun to international rail journeys – all within the museum.
Young visitors can begin their adventure at an interactive station ticket office, where they can dress up, sell tickets, sort lost luggage and even make their own station announcements before setting off on their journey around the museum.
The countryside-themed area offers opportunities to try birdwatching, browse a market-style display of local produce and create sketches inspired by the scenery.
Visitors looking for a classic British seaside experience can make their own Punch and Judy puppets or design a traditional carousel to take home as a souvenir.
DON'T MISS:
Good News Post
Meanwhile, those keen to travel further afield can test their knowledge with a card game featuring trains from around the world, matching railways to different countries and landscapes.
Families will also be able to write holiday postcards and pose for photos in front of a giant travel poster backdrop, creating lasting memories of their day at the museum.
Alongside the daily activities, visitors can enjoy a programme of special events throughout August:
Giant Track Layout – Great Hall, 3–5 August
Mini engineers can get creative with track pieces to build their own layouts, use challenge cards for inspiration, or simply play on sections of pre-built track. We'll have plenty of motorised trains available as well to test out the track designs, add carriages too, play and enjoy! Suggested age 2+. Parental/Carer supervision required.
Immersive Storytelling in the Shinkansen – Great Hall, 11–13 August
Step aboard the Shinkansen – the only preserved Japanese bullet train outside of Japan - for an immersive, bespoke storytelling adventure exploring the railway’s unique power to connect people, places and cultures.
Punch and Judy – South Yard/Station Hall, 18, 21 and 25 August
Experience the magic of the traditional British seaside with classic Punch and Judy shows for the whole family.
York Railway Institute Band Performance – Great Hall, 29 August
Visitors to the National Railway Museum will be able to enjoy a special performance from the York Railway Institute Band on Saturday 29 August at 2pm. The hour-long programme will feature a selection of brass band music inspired by holidays and trains, celebrating the spirit of travel in the museum’s unique railway setting.
Admission to the National Railway Museum is free, although advance booking is recommended. The summer programme runs throughout the school holidays and is included with museum entry.
