With so many things to do in York with kids, it can be hard to know where to start, especially if you’re not here for long. Let’s save you a bit of time by recommending the National Railway Museum, as one of York’s must-see attractions for family visitors. We visited again recently to check that it still deserves the Little Vikings seal of approval and had a brilliant time. Here’s why we think it’s worth a visit with children.

1. There’s lots to see and do

The National Railway Museum is home to a large, impressive collection of iconic locomotives that you may remember learning about at school, travelling on as a teenager or even on your holidays. You’ll see royal carriages, discover the history of the railways and explore the future of rail travel with interactive displays.

Engines aside, there’s a little indoor play area for younger children, hands-on activities and a smell of engine oil that you won’t find anywhere else in York! The National Railway Museum is in the same group as London’s Science Museum, so it’s no surprise to find inspiring, science and engineering-focused activities going on during school holidays. Keep an eye on the Little Vikings website for the latest details of special events going on at the museum.

2. It’s heaven for young train fans

There’s something about trains that captures the imagination of young children, and we’ve never met one who doesn’t have a bit of a soft spot for Thomas the Tank Engine. Even the littlest visitors will get something out of their visit to York’s railway museum, with a train-themed play area for under sixes that’s heaven for budding train drivers.

Children aged 4+ can experience the thrill of the world’s fastest steam locomotive with the Mallard Experience in the Great Hall. This simulation experience is an additional charge and gives you the opportunity to re-live the engine’s record-breaking run. You don’t have to be obsessed with trains to enjoy the museum, though – there’s something impressive about seeing the iconic trains in real life and hearing the stories around them.

3. It’s a great thing to do on a rainy day in York

We’d love to guarantee sunshine on your visit to York, but the reality is that it does rain once in a while. Luckily there are lots of things to do on a rainy day (read our guide to the best rainy day activities in York here), and a trip to the Railway Museum is one of the best.

4. There’s a Wonderlab

One of the most exciting additions to the National Railway Museum, which makes it an even better place to visit with kids, is Wonderlab. A hands-on, interactive gallery aimed at children, it’s one of the most inspiring and engaging places to take children in York. With oodles of activities and amazing live demonstrations, it’s one of our top picks in the city. Unlike the rest of the museum, you’ll need to buy tickets to enter, but we think it’s well worth the admission charge.

5. It’s free!

The Railway Museum is not only one of the best things to do in York; it also happens to be free to enter (aside from Wonderlab, which does have a charge). Donations would be welcome, of course, but there’s no obligation. If you really want to keep costs down, you can take your own food and make yourselves comfortable at one of the many picnic tables.

National Railway Museum – Trip essentials

• – Address – National Railway Museum, Leeman Road, York YO26 4XJ
• – Parking – Limited spaces available in the museum car park (paid)
• – Facilities – Toilets, baby changing, cafes, children’s menu