Embark on a journey through time
With an extensive collection of artefacts and interactive displays, the Museum on Platform 2 brings the golden age of rail travel to life.
From vintage enamel signs and railway clocks to Victorian booking office treasures and a working signal box, every object reveals a unique chapter in the evolution of the railway—and the lives of those who built, worked, and travelled on it.
As you pass through the doors, you’ll be transported back to an era of steam locomotives and railway romance. Explore the intricate model railway that recreates the inaugural journey of the Bluebell Railway, or step inside the authentic signal box where you can try your hand at operating the levers. Around every corner, you’ll uncover stories, memories, and moments of discovery.
The Museum is arranged in seven themed sections, each designed with variety and the unexpected to inform, inspire and enhance your visit to the Bluebell Railway.
For our younger visitors
We’ve created a range of fun, hands-on activities to make the museum an adventure for all ages:
- The handling table
- A working O-gauge model railway
- Thomas the Tank Engine and Stepney display area
- “Find the Mice” hunt
- Railway uniforms for dressing up
- Quizzes
- The signal box adventure
- Stepney Brass Rubbing
Our friendly stewards are always on hand to answer questions and guide you through the exhibits. Just ask—we’re here to help make your visit unforgettable.
How to find us
You can find us on Platform 2 at Sheffield Park Station, Uckfield, East Sussex, TN22 3QL. The entrance to the Bluebell Railway is clearly signed on the approach roads.
Accessibility
Sheffield Park station actually has two museums: SteamWorks! located on Platform 1, and the original Museum on Platform 2, although to some extent the whole of the Bluebell Railway is a living, working museum.
Arrival and Parking
Public transport options are limited. If arriving by bus, the stop is located at the top of the station driveway, near the main station building. From there, it is a 40-metre walk on a slightly uphill, metalled surface.
Visitors arriving by car may use the lower car park, or if you are a Blue Badge holder, the designated accessible parking area in the upper car park, which is closer to the station building. The route from both car parks to the station is gently uphill along a metalled road.
Around the Station
The booking hall and general station area have flat surfaces. If using the footbridge to cross the tracks is not suitable, platform staff can escort visitors via the level crossing at the south end of the station.
Accessible toilets are available on both Platform 1 and Platform 2. The Bessemer Restaurant is fully accessible.
Museums and Exhibits
The Museum on Platform 2, is accessible to mobility aid users, except for the 1866 Signal Box, which can be accessed with mobility aids only up to its doorway.
Additional Support
- Large print guide sheets are available upon request at the Museum on Platform 2.
- Hearing loop systems are not currently available at the station.
- Stewards are on hand to assist in the Museum on Platform 2.
- Platform staff are available to assist across the station.
General Notes
Please be aware that Sheffield Park is part of a working heritage railway. Steam locomotives and other moving railway vehicles are regularly in operation. These can be noisy and may produce steam and smells that some visitors might find overwhelming or distressing.
We are committed to making your visit as enjoyable and comfortable as possible. If you have any specific accessibility needs or questions ahead of your visit, please contact us in advance.
Opening hours
The Museum on Platform 2 opens at 10 am on all days when a scheduled service is running, including Santa Specials. Its time of closing depends on the type of service that is running. Please check at the railway on your day of travel.
It might be possible to open on other days by arrangement – please email curator@bluebell-railway-museum.co.uk.
Opening time for today is shown below:
Time needed
We invite you to spend as long as you wish to in the Museum on Platform 2 and there is more to see than you may realise. We recommend that you allow for up to 20 minutes to ensure you get the most from your visit, but of course you are welcome to stay longer.
Amenities
- Ladies’, Gentlemen’s and disabled toilets, and baby changing facilities, can be found on Platform 2, adjacent to the Museum.
- On Platform 1 there is a licensed café and restaurant.
- Gifts, books and souvenir items can be purchased at various places at the Bluebell Railway.
Please note: eating and drinking is not permitted in the Museum on Platform 2.
FAQs
Is there an admission fee to visit?
Admission to the Museum on Platform 2 is FREE for visitors who have a train or platform ticket. These can be purchased from the booking office at Sheffield Park Station.
Can I bring my dog into the Museum on Platform 2?
Dogs are allowed in all parts of the Bluebell Railway EXCEPT the restaurants and the Museum on Platform 2 at Sheffield Park. We do welcome assistance dogs into the Museum on Platform 2 and to all parts of the Railway.
