The Great Western Railway Museum in Coleford offers a comprehensive experience for railway enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Housed in one of the last remaining permanent railway buildings in the Forest of Dean, the museum showcases a variety of historical artifacts and exhibits. Visitors can explore a restored 0-4-0 ‘Peckett’ locomotive in the engine shed, an 1883 G.W.R. Goods shed, a working signal box, and a replica Victorian Rail Carriage. Additional exhibits include a Toad Brake van, a Fruit ‘C’ Van, and a 7¼-inch gauge passenger electric locomotive named ‘Little John’. The museum also features large-scale model steam locomotives ‘Maude’ and ‘Victor’, as well as a railway shop and bookshop.
The museum operates on Fridays and Saturdays from 2:30 pm to 5:00 pm. For small groups and coach parties, visits can be arranged on other days by contacting the museum via email or phone. Admission fees are £5 for adults and £2.50 for children, with train rides available for an additional £2.50.
Unique events at the museum include the Coleford Music Festival Weekend, featuring live DJs performing all day from the brake van sound system, playing deep house and disco vibes. This event is scheduled for Saturday 12th and Sunday 13th of July 2025, with opening hours from 11 am until approximately 11 pm. The museum will also host mini train rides throughout the day, with the engine shed and signal box open until 4:30 pm. Museum entry for this event is £5 for adults, £2.50 for children, and £2.50 for train rides, while listening to the DJs is free.
For more information on events, admission, and visiting hours, please refer to the museum’s official website.
