East Anglian Railway Museum
Chappel and Wakes Colne Station, Chappel
View on Google MapsPhoto: East Anglian Railway Museum
About East Anglian Railway Museum
Step aboard for a nostalgic journey through railway history at this vintage station, home to lovingly restored locomotives, rolling stock and interactive exhibits that bring the golden age of steam to life.
What's nearby
- JK convenience 400m away
Distances as the crow flies, via Google
Good to know
Parking
- ✓Free car park
- ✓Paid car park
- ✓Free street
Accessibility
- ✓Accessible parking
- ✓Accessible entrance
- ✓Accessible toilet
- ✓Accessible seating
Payment
- ✓Contactless
Details via Google — worth confirming with the attraction before you travel, especially for access needs.
Photos
Photos via Google
Facilities
Opening hours
- Monday
- Closed
- Tuesday
- Closed
- Wednesday
- 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Thursday
- Closed
- Friday
- Closed
- Saturday
- 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday
- 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Current hours may differ from the usual schedule above (e.g. holidays) — check Google Maps for today's hours.
What visitors say
We took my son here for the day when they had the Thomas the tank engine exhibition. It was a great day, very family friendly and lots to do. Food and drink prices were very reasonable. Was unsure whether we would be able to get in as couldn’t buy tickets online on the day but I emailed and got a response almost immediately explaining we would definitely be able to pay on site. This was great as we travelled some distance. Staff were amazingly friendly and I wouldn’t hesitate coming back for another day out. We also found this place to be autism friendly 😀
· via Google
We came to visit 20/12/2025 for A day out with Thomas. It is definitely worth the visit. The staff were very friendly and helpful and were happy to answer any question that you had. My grandson loved riding on the steam trains Thomas & Percy. We got to see Toby, and we also rode in Daisy the diesel engine. Some of the staff were dressed in old uniforms which really made the experience. The food and drink sold onsite is very well priced and not expensive at all. There were so many characters such as Sir Topham Hatt, Rusty & Dusty and even Santa Claus in his grotto, due to time of year. There is a miniature railway that unfortunately wasn’t open on the day we visited, but we did enjoy walking around looking at the model railways. There are plenty of open spaces for the children to enjoy, there is an old fashioned red double decker bus that you can eat your picnic in if it’s cold. There is a play park. Overall I think this place is worth the visit
· via Google
I was in the area with a few hours free and I thought I would pay it a visit. Dedicated and chatty volunteers on site who were happy to spend time talking to you. Some very interesting local history.
· via Google
Took the kids to a Thomas day...back for a cars n coffee meeting, Can't wait for them to take over the Sunday service eventually, its been coming for 45 years since my friend used to volunteer in 1982..
· via Google
Visitors say this railway museum offers engaging exhibits, including working steam trains and vintage carriages, and is particularly enjoyable for families with children, especially during special events. They also highlight the reasonable prices for food and drinks, along with the friendly and knowledgeable staff. Others mention the relaxed atmosphere and the opportunity to explore the exhibits hands-on.
Summary via Google
At a glance
- Address
- Station Road, Wakes Colne, Colchester, CO6 2DS Get directions
- Category
- Railways & Transport
- Guest rating
- 4.5 / 5 (1,229 reviews)
- Suitable for
- All Ages
- Suggested visit
- 2-3 hours
- Setting
- Indoor & outdoor
- Good for children
- Yes
- Toilets on site
- Yes
- Destination
- Colchester