IT is the largest railway museum in the world, boasting a host of record-breakers and history-makers, and attracting more than 700,000 visitors each year.

Its displays range from opulent Royal Trains and the record-breaking Mallard to a lock of Robert Stephenson’s hair.

Many of the vast collection of more than 100 locomotives and engines are on display in the Great Hall, illustrating the development of the railways from Rocket to Eurostar.

One of the jewels in the crown is Palaces on Wheels, featuring Royal saloons dating back to the Victorian era, with sumptuous bedrooms, dining rooms and day saloons that were palaces on wheels.

The only Shinkansen Bullet Train to be on display outside Japan is on display in the Great Hall. In 2004, the museum acquired the world famous Flying Scotsman- the first steam engine to officially travel at 100mph.

It was saved for the nation following a massive public appeal, amid fears it would be sold abroad.

This legendary locomotive is currently in the middle of major repairs which have taken far longer – and cost far more – than had been anticipated.


Key moments at the National Railway Museum

1968: Transport Act encourages British Rail to work with Science Museum to develop National Railway Museum.

1975: Duke of Edinburgh opens museum.

1990: Named Museum of the Year.

1990: Station Hall opens across Leeman Road, nearly doubling size of museum.

1995: Locomotive Lady Godiva puts in appearance with owner, record producer Pete Waterman.

1996: Road train linking Minster with the museum is launched.

2001: Named European Museum of the Year.

2004: Yorkshire Rail Academy opened.