Didcot Railway Centre
Didcot Railway Centre
4.5
About
Didcot Railway Centre is a living history museum of the Great Western Railway set in 21 acres alongside Didcot Parkway Station. From Brunel's Broad Gauge to the modern trains running past, Didcot Railway Centre's unique collection of buildings, locomotives, carriages, wagons and other artefacts shows how the Great Western Railway developed to be the premier railway company of the 1940s.
Duration: More than 3 hours
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- oxford city dogOxford, United Kingdom15 contributionsdog friendlyThe Didcot Railway Centre is just one stop on the train from Oxford City train station. If you buy an off-peak day return, the cost is very reasonable. If you drive, there is a large car park opposite the Didcot train station. Oak and I took the train. The station was quite busy, so we walked to the far end of the platform. It was a lovely train and had air conditioning, which was great on a hot day. I took the opportunity to take a photo of Oak with the train. See below to see oakThank you for a kind review please come back in the Summer.Written December 4, 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited October 2023Traveled with familyWritten November 1, 2023
- Kayleigh W17 contributionsSanta experienceWe came today for the Santa experience and it did not disappoint! Of all of the 7 years of Santa experiences we have been to at different venues this one was by far the best on we have been too! Both of our children had the best time and so did us adults! Very well planned and thought out with the friendliest staff. Steam train rides every 5 minutes so no long wait times for the children. So much to see! And so many presents along the way! Great day out and will be recommending to everyone I see! Thank you Didcot, we will definitely be back.Visited December 2023Traveled with familyWritten December 22, 2023
- Sally G2 contributionsA Magical Christmas DayWhat an amazing Christmas event! From the staff who met us at the entrance to the train drivers, guards onsite staff, the fantastic elves at the Father Christmas workshop and so much more. We had a day to remember and soooo many presents!!! Definitely going again next year. Thank you for a day to remember!Visited December 2023Traveled with familyWritten January 2, 2024
- flyingporcupineOxford, United Kingdom234 contributionsAlways a great day outWe always have a good day out at Didcot Railway Centre and we've been multiple times over the years, most recently for Steam Into Christmas which was an excellent experience (2023). We can easily spend a whole day here. The new steam train playground is a really lovely addition. I recommend taking a picnic if the weather is good - the cafe can get quite busy.Visited December 2023Written January 2, 2024
- SoffyLondon44 contributionsA real gem!Steam Days are so fun. They usually have two engines running so you can wander around the site and visit the different parts (the Engine Room, the museum, the signal room, etc) as well as take multiple rides on the trains. Everything is beautifully maintained and the staff are very kind and friendly. The children’s playground is a great new addition. We spent about 3 hours here on Easter Monday and my 9 year old son and I had a really happy time. This is the third time we’ve visited. I’m not a huge fan of the cafe - too much grease! - but luckily they do have enough of a selection of sandwiches. Be aware there is a break in the middle of the day while the train crews have their lunch. All in all a lovely day out for families, you can learn so much and really get the thrill of travel on these wonderful steam engines. We will be back for sure.We look forward to seeing you again - bring a picnic and stay for the day.Written May 22, 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited April 2024Traveled with familyWritten April 2, 2024
- CelticRaider123 contributionsLoved our trip.Took the Shed tour, which included an overview of the history of Didcot. Tour taken by Roger who was exceptional. Roger was very informed and friendly, and he invited lots of questions. Some great locomotives on display in the shed and there was a small steam engine running tours up and down the line. A fun day and good value for money.A great volunteer - one of the large team that help make Didcot an interesting place to visit.Written May 22, 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited May 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten May 1, 2024
- Gerald BNorwich, United Kingdom41 contributionsWell worth the effort.Visited on a mini gala day with son and 4 year old grandson. Very enjoyable. We travelled by bus and national railways to get there to make it a "proper" day out for grandson. Grandson loved the wooden climbing train look alike, which was pleasingly challenging. All three engines in steam worked different trains and one demonstrated how coaling was done. A very kind gentleman produced the Wickham trolley from its shed. Perhaps it could be on display when trains are working on the adjacent lineThank you for the good review. Our volunteers work hard to give visitors a nice day out. Come back in the Summer.Written May 22, 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited May 2024Traveled with familyWritten May 14, 2024
- LJ1 contributionAmazing volunteersI never take the time to write reviews but thought this place deserved one! We visited on a Saturday steam day with our two children - 5 and 3. There was lots to see and do but the real highlight for us personally was the volunteers, everyone we spoke to was so polite and keen to make your visit the best they could. One of our children is autistic and one of the young volunteers who was only a teenager himself was so patient and kind with them in the garden railway it was honestly lovely, he let them have a turn with the controls for the train and nothing was too much trouble. There was also a lovely lady who insisted on showing us the way to the sheds when we said we hadn’t visited before. I didn’t catch either of their names unfortunately but both were lovely and had a really positive attitude and made our day that little bit better. Everything was spaced out nicely and nowhere felt overly busy despite there being a number of people there on our visit. The railway centre is pushchair and wheelchair friendly and they can be taken on the trains if required - they go into the luggage carriage. We visited the cafe which did get quite busy around lunchtime. Prices were reasonable and food was served hot. Cakes were especially lovely. Again, staff in the cafe were extremely polite and helpful. Toilets were clean and there is an accessible toilet if required. There is a small shop and again prices were reasonable. The young volunteer working in the shop when we visited was very polite and kind to the children. We spent about 4 hours here, we could have spent longer but the children were getting tired. We would definitely visit again and will certainly recommend it to others.Come back and visit Santa?Written October 14, 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited June 2024Traveled with familyWritten June 15, 2024
- WorkHardForMyHolidayLondon, United Kingdom22 contributionsLovely place, people, and site. Recommended!Fantastic place. You can really get hands-on and close, and walk between and over rails. Lots to see and do, with extensive rolling stock. Unlimited train rides with entrance ticket. Staff excellent. Basic restaurant worthy of a lunch visit, not too expensive, and staff patient with a cheeky Englishman! Free Wi-Fi almost everywhere. On our Sunday visit, one steam and one diesel-electric running short distances. Not really bothered about when we left. Run by volunteers, hence refreshing atmosphere, lovely people. Use car park opposite for cheap Sunday parking, ÂŁ3'ish for the day, but get RingGo app first! Check they are open, and a steam engine is running, before going. Family friendly, and mostly disability accessible.Come again and stay all day- thanks for the nice reviewWritten October 14, 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited June 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten July 7, 2024
- DavidMinehead, United Kingdom70 contributionsAn enjoyable return visitNot my first visit, and alway good to see the changes and improvements. Car parking is a bit of an issue which visitors need to research- there is a huge car park a ten minute walk away which takes cash and cards I think, those nearer seem to want use of a parking App. [Aren't they annoying.] Pleasant staff, and I was lucky to be there on a special day with a large display of model railways to back up the usual offering . Cafe is a pie and beans or fish and chips sort of place which is fine. Plenty of under cover displays if it's raining. Considering its largely or even totally run by volunteers, it's a very creditable venue.Nic e review - thank you.Written October 14, 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited June 2024Traveled soloWritten July 7, 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Natalie9628
Thame, UK12 contributions
Aug 2020 • Family
Very disappointed and soggy. Completely understand that we need to socially distance but it was pouring down today and we had to queue outside to get into everything and there was no shelter. Considering the cost to get in, I wouldn’t have thought it too much to expect a few pop up gazebos but there was nothing.
When I asked if we could stay on the train as we have a 6 month old baby and a 2 year old the member of staff said “I’ll tell that to all the people at the back of the queue stall I”?!
We spent £27 on 2 adult tickets and another £4.40 on 3 hours parking as we had assumed we’d stay for the afternoon. We left after a miserable hour.
Might be good to visit on since day but I won’t bother going back.
When I asked if we could stay on the train as we have a 6 month old baby and a 2 year old the member of staff said “I’ll tell that to all the people at the back of the queue stall I”?!
We spent £27 on 2 adult tickets and another £4.40 on 3 hours parking as we had assumed we’d stay for the afternoon. We left after a miserable hour.
Might be good to visit on since day but I won’t bother going back.
Written August 19, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Natalie - thank you for visiting and for your review. We are sorry to hear that the inclement weather spoilt your day. You are right that we have not reopened a small number of enclosed indoor areas as our first priority is to ensure the safety of our visitors, volunteers and staff. The spacious Engine Shed, carriage display and the mixed gauge Burlescombe Station are all large undercover areas with room for social distancing.
The train rides are unlimited but to be fair to all visitors we do ask people to alight and rejoin the queue at busy times and we are restricting numbers to 25% of our usual capacity to ensure that there is space for everyone to relax and explore the Centre safely.
Thanks once again for visiting and for taking the trouble to leave a review.
Written August 20, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Rebecca R
Reading, UK75 contributions
Dec 2021 • Family
No Christmas magic at all!
We paid £70 for 3 of us- 2 adults & our 16 month old. We nearly didn’t book it as it was originally £50 & then they stuck £20 booking fee on top for some reason, but my husband decided we should go for it. This is the first Xmas that our boy Is aware of what’s going on & loves trains so thought this would be a great visit!
I have to say we were very underwhelmed & there was not a lot of Xmas magic at all.
The initial train ride was good fun even though not decorated for Xmas, and was a bit of a wait in the bitter cold! Not fun with a small one.
There was then a bit of a queue for Santa & was nice to take some pics but again the magic just wasn’t there! No music, had some decs up but could have been lit up more with some lights as was getting quite dark by late afternoon. Santa was stood away on a train and the present rolled down on a ramp by a young person with an elf hat on. Was nice to be greeted & have a pic with the old guy as an elf first but why couldn’t you do that with SantaZ
too?? The elf also would have made for a better Santa as he had an actual very long beard.
The train then took you to the central part & got given a tiny hot choc each & mince pie at this little tent. I mean for ÂŁ70 could we not have had a bigger hot choc? It was freeeezing!
There was a brass band playing as we left but that would have been nice to hear in the centre.
I definitely wouldn’t recommend this place as a Xmas event, but maybe on a normal day at probably half the price then maybe…
We paid £70 for 3 of us- 2 adults & our 16 month old. We nearly didn’t book it as it was originally £50 & then they stuck £20 booking fee on top for some reason, but my husband decided we should go for it. This is the first Xmas that our boy Is aware of what’s going on & loves trains so thought this would be a great visit!
I have to say we were very underwhelmed & there was not a lot of Xmas magic at all.
The initial train ride was good fun even though not decorated for Xmas, and was a bit of a wait in the bitter cold! Not fun with a small one.
There was then a bit of a queue for Santa & was nice to take some pics but again the magic just wasn’t there! No music, had some decs up but could have been lit up more with some lights as was getting quite dark by late afternoon. Santa was stood away on a train and the present rolled down on a ramp by a young person with an elf hat on. Was nice to be greeted & have a pic with the old guy as an elf first but why couldn’t you do that with SantaZ
too?? The elf also would have made for a better Santa as he had an actual very long beard.
The train then took you to the central part & got given a tiny hot choc each & mince pie at this little tent. I mean for ÂŁ70 could we not have had a bigger hot choc? It was freeeezing!
There was a brass band playing as we left but that would have been nice to hear in the centre.
I definitely wouldn’t recommend this place as a Xmas event, but maybe on a normal day at probably half the price then maybe…
Written December 5, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi
I am sorry you were disappointed. The weather was terrible which never helps!
This was our first day and we will take your comments on board and improve the Santa experience.
Drinks and food are supplied in small sizes to suit children but refills are not restricted.
Written December 9, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Kurt V
Lutterworth, UK30 contributions
Jul 2020
Finding this place can be a tad tricky. You basically park opposite Didcot train station in the Ringo controlled car park, then walk across the road into the main Didcot train station where you will be let thru the gate and walk toward the museum. The car park didn't cost much for the whole day, around ÂŁ2.40
Firstly, the train ride is fun and gives you a taste of what the past would have been like. Note that the train itself only goes down a straight bit of track and back up again, the total trip is only 5 mins or so. It is nice to take in the atmosphere though and the sounds and smells of times gone by. If you have kids they will love it.
The staff for the most part are very cheerful, happy and friendly.
Now, you want to know what it feels like when time slows down? Attend the 'signalling centre'.
This small building is dedicated to the evolution of train signalling and is basically a guided walk showing the early hand signals right through to modern day computers.
Note that this is a very niche area of train transport and so would only be interesting to full on train enthusiasts, or anoraks as they are often called. This makes me wonder why on Earth did they decide to dedicate an entire building to such a niche aspect of train transport? I think a much more fun exhibit would be 'how to operate a train'. Perhaps with an authentic train control layout, while a member of staff explains what each button and lever does. Anyway back on topic.
The centre has several working examples of old signalling technology, but the information is delivered in such a boring fashion you will live to regret stepping foot in there within 5 minutes.
There are some hands on aspects though, if you want (or if your partner forces you) you can pull a lever which lowers and raises a stop sign, riveting!)
The experience gets worse if you happen to be graced by a particular member of staff who will grant you permission to turn a couple of knobs to watch some lights move along a line on a train track map board. Be warned though, if you don't do it correctly you will be made to feel like a child. Anyone would think you were being trained (pun intended) to be a train signal operator. This particular member of staff really gave off unfriendly and weird vibes. I'm sure he didn't mean to, but nevertheless it took away from an overall positive experience.
When you finally get a chance to leave this building, you will feel confused and nauseated. Were you there for 30 minutes, or 30 hours, or 30 years? It's very hard to tell.
All in all I give this place 4/5 stars because it's cheap, the train ride is fun and there are absolutely LOADS of old trains laying around, which you are free to climb and explore. For that reason alone it is worth the admission fee.
Firstly, the train ride is fun and gives you a taste of what the past would have been like. Note that the train itself only goes down a straight bit of track and back up again, the total trip is only 5 mins or so. It is nice to take in the atmosphere though and the sounds and smells of times gone by. If you have kids they will love it.
The staff for the most part are very cheerful, happy and friendly.
Now, you want to know what it feels like when time slows down? Attend the 'signalling centre'.
This small building is dedicated to the evolution of train signalling and is basically a guided walk showing the early hand signals right through to modern day computers.
Note that this is a very niche area of train transport and so would only be interesting to full on train enthusiasts, or anoraks as they are often called. This makes me wonder why on Earth did they decide to dedicate an entire building to such a niche aspect of train transport? I think a much more fun exhibit would be 'how to operate a train'. Perhaps with an authentic train control layout, while a member of staff explains what each button and lever does. Anyway back on topic.
The centre has several working examples of old signalling technology, but the information is delivered in such a boring fashion you will live to regret stepping foot in there within 5 minutes.
There are some hands on aspects though, if you want (or if your partner forces you) you can pull a lever which lowers and raises a stop sign, riveting!)
The experience gets worse if you happen to be graced by a particular member of staff who will grant you permission to turn a couple of knobs to watch some lights move along a line on a train track map board. Be warned though, if you don't do it correctly you will be made to feel like a child. Anyone would think you were being trained (pun intended) to be a train signal operator. This particular member of staff really gave off unfriendly and weird vibes. I'm sure he didn't mean to, but nevertheless it took away from an overall positive experience.
When you finally get a chance to leave this building, you will feel confused and nauseated. Were you there for 30 minutes, or 30 hours, or 30 years? It's very hard to tell.
All in all I give this place 4/5 stars because it's cheap, the train ride is fun and there are absolutely LOADS of old trains laying around, which you are free to climb and explore. For that reason alone it is worth the admission fee.
Written August 5, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Many thanks for your review - we're glad you had an enjoyable time.
Written August 6, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Barry B
Hoddesdon, UK1,308 contributions
Jul 2021
A Christmas present was a day out for two at DRC, some slight issues in booking the right day, but help from Chrissy in visitor services sort this out - Thanks
Arriving at the appointed time, walked though the main line station and up the steps, (there is no step free access, and the surfaces mean that wheelchair access is extremely difficult).
Nice welcome on the platform from a man who explained the history of the site and God Wonderful Railway.
A steam ride to the other end of site, oh joy! Then we walked back though the site rather than taking the diesel shuttle. Some great examples of steam engines, early diesels and coaches.
All the staff on site are really friendly and happy to share their knowledge.
The cafe is extremely good, chicken goujons and chips,freshly cooked a joy and very reasonably priced. Nice cakes as well and great refuelling stop.
We would recommend this as a day out.
Arriving at the appointed time, walked though the main line station and up the steps, (there is no step free access, and the surfaces mean that wheelchair access is extremely difficult).
Nice welcome on the platform from a man who explained the history of the site and God Wonderful Railway.
A steam ride to the other end of site, oh joy! Then we walked back though the site rather than taking the diesel shuttle. Some great examples of steam engines, early diesels and coaches.
All the staff on site are really friendly and happy to share their knowledge.
The cafe is extremely good, chicken goujons and chips,freshly cooked a joy and very reasonably priced. Nice cakes as well and great refuelling stop.
We would recommend this as a day out.
Written July 10, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Many thanks for your review, we look forward to welcoming you again soon.
Written August 3, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Louise S
Marlow, UK148 contributions
Dec 2021 • Family
We booked tickets for 4 of us at a cost of ÂŁ86. We didn't feel the experience represented this value. The primary reason for our visit was for our kids (boys age 3 and 5) to meet Santa. Whilst I get this can't be changed, the venue is very exposed with little shelter. It was bitterly
cold for our kids and very windy on the day we visited which was not pleasant given there are limited sheltered areas.
We were given a time for our santa train and boarded. It was not well organised or clear what we were supposed to do. We got into our carriage and the train went up and down for about 10 minutes then we had to get off. The train was not decorated at all and no staff showed us what to do. There was confusion when we got off. We figured out we needed to go to another shed though there were no signs. Inside was santa but he was up high and an elf slid presents down a chute to our kids. Santa said hello but didn't engage at all. It was utterly disappointing. I get social distancing is in place but he could have asked them if they had been good and what they had on their Christmas list. The boys had been thinking all morning what to tell him and were upset they didn't get a chance - it was the whole point of our visit! That's why you take your kids to see santa! Unforgivable.
The gifts we were given were plastic rubbish. They were not age appropriate (both the 3 and 5 year old got the same plastic diggers) and were gender biased. In this day and age most places are now moving away from pink and blue parcels. Big disappointment.
After seeing santa we had to wait ages for another train with only 1 carriage to shuttle us back towards the main part. We weren't sure what was happening which led to us missing the first train and having to wait 10 minutes on a very drafty cold platform for the next one despite having been at the front of the queue for the first one. The journey back was 5 minutes.
There was an opportunity for refreshments when we got off the train but there was a long wait inside a crowded tent and no dairy free options for our kids. As the covid risk was too high to go in we were unable to partake. We left straight after.
In all we came away in under 1.5 hours very disappointed and feeling like we had been ripped off. We wouldn't recommend it. Neither child enjoyed it. It was a waste of money.
cold for our kids and very windy on the day we visited which was not pleasant given there are limited sheltered areas.
We were given a time for our santa train and boarded. It was not well organised or clear what we were supposed to do. We got into our carriage and the train went up and down for about 10 minutes then we had to get off. The train was not decorated at all and no staff showed us what to do. There was confusion when we got off. We figured out we needed to go to another shed though there were no signs. Inside was santa but he was up high and an elf slid presents down a chute to our kids. Santa said hello but didn't engage at all. It was utterly disappointing. I get social distancing is in place but he could have asked them if they had been good and what they had on their Christmas list. The boys had been thinking all morning what to tell him and were upset they didn't get a chance - it was the whole point of our visit! That's why you take your kids to see santa! Unforgivable.
The gifts we were given were plastic rubbish. They were not age appropriate (both the 3 and 5 year old got the same plastic diggers) and were gender biased. In this day and age most places are now moving away from pink and blue parcels. Big disappointment.
After seeing santa we had to wait ages for another train with only 1 carriage to shuttle us back towards the main part. We weren't sure what was happening which led to us missing the first train and having to wait 10 minutes on a very drafty cold platform for the next one despite having been at the front of the queue for the first one. The journey back was 5 minutes.
There was an opportunity for refreshments when we got off the train but there was a long wait inside a crowded tent and no dairy free options for our kids. As the covid risk was too high to go in we were unable to partake. We left straight after.
In all we came away in under 1.5 hours very disappointed and feeling like we had been ripped off. We wouldn't recommend it. Neither child enjoyed it. It was a waste of money.
Written December 5, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
The weather was foul and it was our first open weekend. I am sorry you were disappointed and we take your criticism and work to improve our event.
All the presents are by nature gender neutral but the packing colour does help us to give a present that will not be unwrapped and returned as unwanted which would happen in a large percentage our presents if not managed in anyway. Returned presents would need to have been destroyed as I am sure you would not want a previously opened present given to your child.
We had over a thousand visitors on the day and our visitor survey of the day was very positive.
Please visit us in the Summer when you will feel more comfortable with the weather and hopefully Covid will be less worrying for you.
Written December 9, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
VeggieCarrie
Marlow, UK11 contributions
Mar 2020 • Family
My three year old really enjoyed our day out with Thomas and Friends. He was particularly excited to ride on the two trains: Thomas (steam engine) and Diesel. He also loved the shop and getting a Thomas toy there was his absolute highlight. We enjoyed the signal museum within the railway centre because of the friendly and helpful volunteers there.
Slight downsides:
1. The restaurant had slow service with a long queue and not much choice of hot food as some things had ran out (I think you could probably bring a picnic in).
2. The new car park: not well sign-posted, lack of/slow payment machines and the lift was pretty disgusting. Plenty of parking spaces though!
Overall, it was a fun day out and we'll definitely be back.
Slight downsides:
1. The restaurant had slow service with a long queue and not much choice of hot food as some things had ran out (I think you could probably bring a picnic in).
2. The new car park: not well sign-posted, lack of/slow payment machines and the lift was pretty disgusting. Plenty of parking spaces though!
Overall, it was a fun day out and we'll definitely be back.
Written March 14, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Many thanks for your review - we're really pleased you had a great time at the event. We are working to improve the catering offer shortly and to add additional catering facilities in new buildings in the medium term.
We will forward your comments regarding the car park to GWR and APCOA who own and operate the facility.
Written March 15, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Ken J
Birmingham, UK1,407 contributions
Aug 2021
Nice big open space ideal post Covid with 2 demonstration lines normally running steam engines, although Broad gauge and many standard gauge locomotives are display only as their boiler certificates have expired. Very helpful staff including directors, plus currently a visiting steam locomotive in service. The train rides are free and you can go on them as often as you like. It is a very large collection of locomotives etc right down to small artefacts so give yourself time to see everything or just to get around the site. Access is via Didcot station subway and there is a car park opposite or you can use the multi-storey station car park, which was being built the last time I visited. Could make better use of the trackwork outside the shed rather than just storing engines inside it. Pity to see things like the tool vans from Taunton needing a coat of paint - they need some TLC
Written August 10, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi
Thanks for the good review.
We are working hard to paint exhibits but we need more volunteers. Join us?
Written November 10, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
EarlsCourtTT1
London, UK639 contributions
Oct 2020
The web site could be so much better, basically do not believe what’s on the Didcot Railway Centre web site. We booked for 10.30 and it says to get there 30 minutes early, so we did. What it should read is for a 10.30 booking please arrive at 10.20, for all other bookings please arrive 30 minutes early. We arrived at 10am as the web suggested only to find the gates locked, we thought we must be in the wrong place, so I rang, only to be told the gates will open around 10.20, so what is the point of being told to arrive at 10am for 10.30. At 10.20 the gates were opened by polite and cheerful staff which was nice. At 10.30 there is no train, it arrived out of the shed at 10.35, not really a problem but we were not allowed to board it until 10.40. The train finally moved off at 10.45. Less than quarter of a mile up the track and back down twice is the extent of the ride and then you get off. I must point out at this stage that we did see a sign on the way out stating you can ride as many times as you want to. Compared to other steam train rides that I’ve been on this one rates as poor. No scenic views, no clouds of steam white or black, no clickity clack from the track at speed, just a slow 10 mph ride all over in 15 minutes, we got off just before 11am. There are other bits to see, a small museum, sheds, platforms, restoration work and a café.
Written December 28, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you very much for visiting and for your review. We welcome feedback from visitors and encourage them to talk to staff on the day of their visit.
We will pass your comments on to our web team but it would be helpful if you could e-mail and let us know where the suggestion of arriving 30 minutes early can be found as we do not recognise this. When we have been able to open with the ongoing Covid restrictions, we have asked visitors to arrive within a 30 minute timeslot but not to arrive early as we have to spread arrivals in order to keep everyone safe.
We aim to provide value for money and we are sorry that you missed the information on the website, booking page and at the entry to the platform stating that you train rides were unlimited. As a living museum based around an original 1932 Great Western Railway engine shed, we offer a very different experience to a heritage railway through the countryside and the information on our website reflects this - again if there is something specific that has misled you, then please e-mail with details as this is certainly not our intention.
Written January 1, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
bmsal2016
Oxford, UK75 contributions
Feb 2020
Unfortunately it rained on the day we went & even though we had bought tickets beforehand, we still had to queue with people who hadn’t so what was the point of that really. As it was half term, it was quite a long queue standing in the rain. I think this issue should be addressed as it made us miss the train that was waiting so stood even longer in the rain. Apart from this, we enjoyed the visit. Our 4 year old Grandson enjoyed it more than we thought. We intended to eat in the cafe but found it full up so had to leave & go elsewhere. May go back for a second visit in the better weather. The old trains are well worth seeing
Written February 22, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Many thanks for your review; we really do value feedback from visitors. We are aware that queuing can be a problem and have a till upgrade scheduled that will include scanners so we can fast track visitors with pre-booked tickets and there's already a discount for buying online. Really good to hear that your grandson had a great time and we look forward to welcoming you back in the summer.
Written February 23, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
BeamishOmnivore
Hedge End, UK17 contributions
Dec 2020 • Family
We had a lovely Covid secure visit to see Santa at the Didcot railway center. Staff were polite and the train ride was short.
Understanding this is a special event and not a normal running day which is reflected in the price. However I felt that more rides could be included in the price and the trains were not as advertised which was disappointing for me as a train enthusiast. For the price paid I expected to see at least 2 steam engines running.
It is a interesting site which I would like to return to at another time. However I would not recommend the Santa event to those less interested in trains. Alot of the value of the ticket is walking around the site seeing impressive places like the engine shed which will not be appreciated by all.
My rating would be high if the cost for a 2 hour event was a little cheaper.
Understanding this is a special event and not a normal running day which is reflected in the price. However I felt that more rides could be included in the price and the trains were not as advertised which was disappointing for me as a train enthusiast. For the price paid I expected to see at least 2 steam engines running.
It is a interesting site which I would like to return to at another time. However I would not recommend the Santa event to those less interested in trains. Alot of the value of the ticket is walking around the site seeing impressive places like the engine shed which will not be appreciated by all.
My rating would be high if the cost for a 2 hour event was a little cheaper.
Written December 27, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Many thanks for visiting and for your review.
We're please that you enjoyed the visit and found the site interesting and appreciated the measures we had taken to make the site Covid-secure. Unfortunately, the need to control access to the two trains that were running, sanitise them between groups and implement the one way system through Santa's station to provide plenty of room and keep everyone safe meant that we could not offer more rides at this event.
Running the event in line with Government guidelines meant our capacity per day was just 40% of previous Christmas events and our costs were also increased and this was reflected in the price, but visitors were welcome to stay all day and explore the history and heritage on site.
We hope to welcome you back to one of our Steam Days in 2021.
Written January 1, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Do you recommend purchasing tickets to the Jan 1 Steam Day in advance? Thanks!
Written November 12, 2024
how long is the track and how long does train rides take
Written October 18, 2022
Well answered above. Just like to add it’s a good fun couple of hours out.
Written November 15, 2024
We have two demonstration lines on site - the journey on each is around 10 minutes but visitors can take unlimited rides as they explore the whole 25 acre site, including the engine shed - full of restored Great Western locomotives large and small, see inside the workshops, visit the carriage shed and display housing vehicles dating from Victorian times to the 1940s. There's also the original coaling stage, a turntable, a section of Brunel's broad gauge track with full-size replica locomotives, a Victorian transfer shed where goods were moved from broad-gauge to standard gauge trains, an interactive signalling centre, small artefacts museum, hands-on science of railways gallery and lots more!
Written October 2, 2019
We are open even if it is raining. Although we are an outdoor attraction the Signalling Centre, GWT Museum, Engine Shed, Carriage Display, Transfer Shed, Air Raid Shelter and Refreshment Room are all under cover.
Written August 14, 2019
Will the Flying Scotsman still be at Didcot to see on Tuesday 29th?
Paula
Written August 26, 2017
Sorry I wouldn't know. Maybe you could look at their web site, it should have all the details on there.
Written August 26, 2017
Ann M
Didcot, United Kingdom
Hi. Gala Days are special events and we will have trains running all day on our Main Demonstration Line and Branch Line. Admission includes unlimited rides on the trains, which run about every 15 minutes.
Written April 21, 2017
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