What to see and do at the Bluebell Railway Museum
Immersive experiences at The Bluebell Railway Museum
As you step into the museum, you’ll be transported to an era of steam locomotives and railway romance. From the intricate model railway showcasing the inaugural journey of The Bluebell Railway, to the authentic signal box where visitors can operate the levers, every corner holds a treasure trove of memories waiting to be explored.
For the enthusiasts and researchers...
Step into history at our captivating museum, a highlight filled with railway treasures that fascinate both enthusiasts and the curious.
Hear from our Bluebell Railway Museum visitors
I was thoroughly impressed by the Bluebell Railway Museum. The passion and knowledge of the staff are evident in every detail. It's not just about trains; it's a journey through history. The highlight for me was the interactive signal box demonstration – absolutely fantastic!
The Bluebell Railway Museum offers a unique blend of education and nostalgia. The variety of locomotives and carriages on display is remarkable, and the stories behind them are just as compelling. This visit has sparked a newfound appreciation for railway heritage in my children!
Come and get involved
Everyone that works at the museum and archives are volunteers. There are a number of roles, and the time committed is flexible. Whatever your skills there is likely to be a role for you. To learn more pop us an email.
All you need to know to plan your visit
When is the museum open?
The Bluebell Railway Museum opens at 10 am on all days when a scheduled service is running including Santa Specials. It’s time of closing depends on the type of service that is running. Please check at the railway on you day of travel. It might be possible to open the museum on other days by arrangement – please email curator@bluebell-railway-museum.co.uk.
Where is the museum located?
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.
Is there an admission fee to enter the museum?
Admission to the museum is free for visitors who have a train or platform ticket, which can be purchased from the booking office at Sheffield Park.
Are there facilities in the museum?
Ladies’, Gentlemen’s and disabled toilets, and baby changing facilities, can be found on Platform 2 adjacent to the museum and on Platform 1 there is a licensed café and restaurant. Gifts, books and souvenir items can be purchased in the museum and at other places in the railway.
Eating and drinking is not permitted in the museum.
Is the museum accessible?
We strive to make the museum accessible to all visitors.
- Mobility Aids and Assistance:
Most areas of the museum accommodate a variety of mobility aids. Our friendly museum staff are happy to provide assistance wherever possible. Please note that the Withyham signal box, built in 1866, has very restricted access. - Museum Entry:
Access to the museum is via Platform 2. Platforms 1 and 2 are connected by a footbridge. For visitors with mobility difficulties, a bell is located at the south end of the platforms. Ringing the bell will summon a member of platform staff, who will assist visitors in crossing the track safely. Ramps are available for getting on and off the platforms. - Guides:
Large-print museum guides are available at the entrance. We also offer guides in several languages to accommodate international visitors. - Environment:
The museum is comfortably warm in winter and cool in summer. Please note that when the museum is busy, it can become noisy. - Seating:
There are seating areas throughout the museum for visitors to rest during their visit. - Hearing Accessibility:
Unfortunately, we do not currently have a hearing loop system. We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause. - Special Requirements:
If you have any specific needs or require additional assistance, please contact us in advance at curator@bluebell-railway-museum.co.uk.
We look forward to welcoming you to the museum!
Can I bring my dog to the museum?
Though dogs are allowed in most areas of the Bluebell site, we can only welcome assistance dogs into the museum.
Can I donate to the museum?
Financial donations are welcomed and all go toward developing the museum. A donation box can be found near the museum exit door as can a tap and go card machine.
We are always grateful for the donation of interesting railway objects. To donate please send an email to curator@bluebell-railway-museum.co.uk with details including photographs if possible.
Please note that we are no longer able to accommodate items on loan except for short periods when they form part of a special display.
Can I tell you what I thought?
Yes please! Your comments, stories and suggestions are invited – the Visitors’ Book is near the museum exit. If you have stories about the railway we are always pleased to receive them and, with your permission, add them to our archive.
If anything did not please you please let us know by emailing to curator@ bluebell-railway-museum.co.uk.
Contact the museum
- General museum enquiries: curator@bluebell-railway-museum.co.uk
- Archivist enquiries: archivist@bluebell-railway-museum.co.uk
- Photographic collection enquiries: photos@bluebell-railway-museum.co.uk
Visiting the Bluebell Railway Museum was like stepping back in time. The meticulously restored trains and informative exhibits really brought the golden age of steam to life. It was a captivating experience for the whole family!