National Railway Museum York

What makes us a great choice for education

The National Railway Museum is dedicated to igniting our visitors’ curiosity about the people, places and engineering marvels behind the railways, we put our passion for amazing stories into everything we do.

A school trip to the museum will provide a rich context for learning about how engineering and technology shapes our lives, inspiring students’ curiosity and skills across a range of subjects. From engineering, computing and science to history and design technology, we offer a range of interactive science shows, engaging workshops and additional learning resources that can enhance learning for all ages.

Your visit can be tailor made to fit your groups needs through our Online Group Booking Portal.

Accreditation and Awards

• LOtC quality badge holder

What is typically included on our school trips

Pick and choose from a range of school sessions, object-rich spaces, optional railway rides and special exhibitions.

See the full programme on our website at https://www.railwaymuseum.org.uk/learning

Group Sizes Catered For

There is no maximum group size.

Some activities have limits on the number of children who can attend at one time.

Our required adult-to-student ratio should be at least 1:4 for Early Years (children under 5 years), 1:8 for KS2 (children aged 7-11) and 1:10 for KS3 upwards (children aged 11-16).

Materials, Resources & Information Provided

We have a number of learning resources available to download for free on our website.

Photography, Filming & Audio Restrictions

Groups are permitted to take photography, film or audio as part of their visit. Any equipment used for this needs to be restricted to handheld devices only (no tripods or lighting without prior consent).

When capturing any photography, film or audio we ask group leaders to be mindful of other visitors.

Risk Assessment Details

Our website contains all the health and safety information you’ll need to help you write your risk assessment:

Education Officer Information

If you have any queries, you can get in touch with our Contact Centre on 033 0058 0058 or send an email to info@ScienceMuseumGroup.co.uk

Pricing Information

Entry to the museum is free. Stephenson’s Rocket costs £3.50 per student and Robot Railways costs £4.00 per student.

Please note all charged offers are available on a pre-booked basis only.

Clothing Requirements

Many of our visiting groups choose to wear distinctive identifiers such as high-vis jackets displaying school information to easily identify their students and make it easier to reunite lost students with their groups.

First Aid Information

We have trained staff to provide first-aid treatment – please ask if you require assistance. There is a fully equipped, fully accessible first-aid room in the museum which can be made available if you need it.

Available Facilities

For information on getting to the National Railway Museum visit our dedicated Travel Information page.

Bags can be stored in dedicated bag storage, which is bookable along with your visit (subject to availability). Lockers are also available for a small fee.

Bookable picnic spaces are also available to groups. Toilet facilities are available throughout the museum, and these are also open to members of the public.

Changing facilities for students with disabilities can be made available on request. Please contact us for further information.

You can find more information here: https://www.railwaymuseum.org.uk/visit/facilities-and-accessibility

Accessibility & Disabled Facilities

Our museum is open for all visitors - please find our accessibility page for the provisions we have in place: https://www.railwaymuseum.org.uk/visit/facilities-and-accessibility

Opening Hours & Information

During term time the museum is open Wednesday–Sunday, 10.00–17.00 (last entry 16.15). 

During school holidays the museum is open Monday-Sunday, 10.00-17.00 (last entry 16.15).

Galleries start to close 30 minutes before the museum closes.

Other Information

For the latest information about what we have to offer and to book, please visit: https://www.railwaymuseum.org.uk/learning

Booking information

You need to pre-book your educational group visit, even if you don’t intend to take part in any of our events or activities. You can find out more information and contact details at: https://www.railwaymuseum.org.uk/learning/schools-what-see-and-do-visit