Hovertrain RTV 31 - Dwarfs the walk round Garden Railway
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Railworld Wildlife Haven

4.6
·358 reviews·, United Kingdom

A volunteer-run haven in Peterborough, blending fascinating model railways with a serene wildlife area. Perfect for families and train enthusiasts!

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekends

Volunteer staff are present

CrowdMedium
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Hovertrain RTV 31 - Dwarfs the walk round Garden Railway

Railworld Wildlife Haven

Best Time

Weekends

Volunteer staff are present

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A volunteer-run haven in Peterborough, blending fascinating model railways with a serene wildlife area. Perfect for families and train enthusiasts!

4.6
(358 reviews)

"An absolute hidden treasure in Peterborough! Highly recommended!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Family Ticket Value

A family ticket is great value at £10, offering hours of fun compared to other attractions. :moneybag:

🚂 Interactive Train Fun

Kids can operate Thomas & Friends engines on the model railway. Pure joy for little ones! :child:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Model Railway Displays

Model Railway Displays

Globe Centre & indoor building

Marvel at intricate model train layouts, including Thomas & Friends, with interactive elements for kids. A dream for young enthusiasts!

Wildlife Haven & Gardens

Wildlife Haven & Gardens

Outdoor area

Explore lush greenery, exotic trees, and walking paths. Spot diverse birds and enjoy a peaceful retreat from the city.

Mainline Train Spotting

Mainline Train Spotting

Viewing platforms

Watch mainline trains from Scotland to London pass by. A thrilling experience for train spotters of all ages.

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Volunteer-Run Charm

Railworld Wildlife Haven is a volunteer-run gem. Expect passionate staff eager to share stories, making it a unique, community-driven experience. Support their efforts by visiting!

Train Spotting & Nature

This haven offers a dual delight: fascinating model railways and a serene wildlife area. Perfect for families and anyone who loves trains or a peaceful escape.

Best Times

When
Weekends
Why
Volunteer staff are present
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer mornings
Why
Enjoy the gardens
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

I knew I had more to show of this place!😎 Posh in Hackney Next! #Peterborough #poshgirlgoes #englandtravel #comedyvideo
@savannahgraceycomedy
46.3K likes • 610K views

🎯 Family Ticket Value

A family ticket is great value at £10, offering hours of fun compared to other attractions. :moneybag:

🚂 Interactive Train Fun

Kids can operate Thomas & Friends engines on the model railway. Pure joy for little ones! :child:

Train spotting 🚂 @railworldwildlifehaven 📍- Railworld Wildlife Haven, Oundle Road, Peterborough, PE2 9NR #funinthefens #fenland #peterborough #huntingdon #cambridge #daysoutwithkids #mummybloggeruk #firsttimemum #toddlerlife #babylife
funinthefens
26 likes • 1.3K views
Recorded in 2021 - Brian Pearce at Railworld Wildlife Haven briefly says a few words about RTV 31 (the hovertrain) and why it's important that she be preserved. Her condition hasn't improved any in the last 3 years and now she's at risk of being lost forever.
rtv31hovertrain
18 likes • 1.1K views

🌿 Explore the Nature

Wander through the wildlife haven's paths and bridges. A peaceful escape with exotic trees and birds. :evergreen_tree:

📸 Train Spotting Views

Utilize viewing platforms for excellent views of mainline trains. :camerawithflash:

Took a trip to Railworld Wildlife Haven yesterday. Loved it! #peterboroughfromabove #peterboroughuk #airstreammedia #dronephotography #aerialphotography #peterborough #peterboroughaerialimages #railworld #railworldwildlifehaven #nenevalleyrailway #steamengine #steamtrain
peterboroughfromabove
11 likes • 282 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Family Ticket Value

A family ticket is great value at £10, offering hours of fun compared to other attractions. :moneybag:

🚂 Interactive Train Fun

Kids can operate Thomas & Friends engines on the model railway. Pure joy for little ones! :child:

🌿 Explore the Nature

Wander through the wildlife haven's paths and bridges. A peaceful escape with exotic trees and birds. :evergreen_tree:

📸 Train Spotting Views

Utilize viewing platforms for excellent views of mainline trains. :camerawithflash:

☕ Refreshments Available

Light refreshments are available at the cafe, perfect for a break. :coffee:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(358 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Railworld Wildlife Haven is widely praised as a hidden gem, offering a delightful blend of model railways and a peaceful wildlife area. Visitors highlight the friendly and passionate volunteer staff, the excellent value for money, and the engaging activities for children. While some might find the site 'smallish,' its unique charm and community spirit make it a highly recommended spot for families and enthusiasts alike.

"We was there for few hours enjoying looking around and you could see the trains go by also. Enjoyed the wildlife part was beautiful. The staff are so friendly and welcoming. I ended up forgetting to take pictures and enjoy where I was."

Joanne Ridgeway

"Smallish site offering a unique combination of wildlife park and railway centre. Two railway displays one outdoors the other inside. Views offered across mainline from Scotland to London for the train spotters. There's a yard for the restoration of railway stock also."

Richard Porteous

"Railworld Wildlife Haven is an absolute hidden treasure in Peterborough! It’s a wonderful place for families, nature lovers, and anyone looking for a peaceful day out. The staff and volunteers are incredibly friendly and clearly passionate about what they do, always ready to share interesting facts and stories. There’s a lovely mix of wildlife, beautiful gardens, and fascinating railway exhibits that make the visit fun and educational at the same time. The area is well kept, calm, and perfect for a relaxing walk while learning something new. A truly special place that deserves support and recognition. Highly recommended! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐"

Kamil

What People Like

Friendly volunteer staff
Great value family ticket
Interactive model trains

What People Dislike

Site can be smallish

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Railworld Wildlife Haven is located on Oundle Road, Peterborough, PE2 9NR.Instagram It's accessible by car and offers a unique experience close to the city centre.Instagram

While specific parking details aren't widely publicized, it's generally understood that visitors can park on-site or nearby. It's advisable to check their official website or social media for the most current information.

Information on direct public transport routes is limited. However, given its proximity to Peterborough city centre, local bus services might be an option. It's recommended to use a journey planner for real-time public transport information.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Railworld Wildlife Haven is typically open daily from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.Instagram It's always a good idea to confirm hours before your visit, especially on public holidays.

Entry is very affordable, with a family ticket costing around £10.Reddit This excellent value makes it a popular choice for families looking for an engaging day out.

Advance booking is generally not required for Railworld Wildlife Haven. Tickets can usually be purchased upon arrival. However, for special events, it's wise to check their website.

Yes, Railworld is designed to be enjoyable for all ages. Children will love the interactive model railways, while adults can appreciate the wildlife, gardens, and historical railway exhibits.Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can explore indoor and outdoor railway displays, including a large Hornby 00 gauge layout and a Thomas & Friends layout.Reddit The wildlife haven offers walking paths, viewing platforms for mainline trains, and beautiful gardens.Reddit

Railworld often hosts special events like Family Fun Days, Craft Fairs, Model Railway Operator Days, and Photograph Days.Instagram Keep an eye on their social media for announcements.

The site offers walking paths and viewing platforms, and while some areas might be more challenging, it's generally considered accessible for pushchairs. Wheelchair accessibility can vary, so it's best to inquire directly.

Information regarding pets is not readily available. It's recommended to contact Railworld Wildlife Haven directly to confirm their pet policy before visiting.

The RTV 31 is a historic hovertrain that was at Railworld, with efforts made to preserve it.Instagram Its current status and accessibility may vary, so inquire on-site for details.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, light refreshments are available at the Wansford Café.Instagram There are also picnic tables throughout the site, making it a great spot to bring your own food.

Absolutely! Railworld Wildlife Haven has picnic tables available, so you're welcome to bring your own food and enjoy a picnic amidst the scenery.Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, Railworld offers diverse photographic opportunities, from detailed model trains to scenic garden views and passing mainline trains.Instagram They even host dedicated photography days.Instagram

The viewing platforms for mainline trains, the intricate model railway layouts, and the well-maintained gardens all provide excellent backdrops for photos.Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Railworld Wildlife Haven is a fantastic destination for families. The interactive Thomas & Friends model railway is a huge hit, allowing children to control the trains.Reddit The wildlife haven offers a safe and engaging space for kids to explore, with paths and bridges to discover.Reddit The affordable family ticket price makes it an excellent budget-friendly option for a day out.Reddit

Beyond the trains and nature, the site provides picnic areas and light refreshments, ensuring a comfortable visit. The volunteer staff are often happy to engage with children, adding to the welcoming atmosphere. It's a place where kids can learn, play, and be entertained for hours.

🚂 Train Enthusiasts

For railway aficionados, Railworld is a must-visit. You can immerse yourself in detailed model railway layouts, including a large Hornby 00 gauge display.Reddit The real thrill, however, comes from the viewing platforms offering direct views of mainline trains travelling between Scotland and London.Reddit

The site also has a yard for railway stock restoration, offering a glimpse into the ongoing work. Special photography days are even held, catering to those who want to capture the essence of the railway heritage.Instagram The passion of the volunteer staff further enhances the experience, with opportunities to learn about the history and mechanics of the trains.

🌳 Nature Lovers & Peace Seekers

If you're looking for a tranquil escape, Railworld's Wildlife Haven is ideal. The well-maintained gardens and walking paths provide a serene environment to unwind.Reddit Discover exotic trees and enjoy the sounds of various bird species.Reddit

It's a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, offering a peaceful contrast to the bustling city. The gentle hum of distant trains adds a unique soundtrack to your relaxation. The volunteer-run nature of the site contributes to its calm and unhurried atmosphere.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Dual Appeal: Trains and Wildlife

Railworld Wildlife Haven masterfully blends two distinct attractions: a passion for railways and a commitment to nature. For train enthusiasts, the site boasts impressive model railway displays, including a large Hornby 00 gauge layout and a popular Thomas & Friends setup where children can even operate the engines.Reddit These indoor exhibits are complemented by outdoor railway features and viewing platforms that offer thrilling glimpses of mainline trains passing by.Reddit

Beyond the tracks, the 'Wildlife Haven' provides a tranquil escape. Visitors can wander through well-kept gardens, discover exotic trees, and explore walking paths with small bridges.Reddit The area is noted for its birdlife, offering a peaceful environment for nature lovers and a safe space for children to explore.Instagram This combination ensures that Railworld appeals to a broad audience, from dedicated railway buffs to families seeking a relaxing day out in a green setting.

The entire operation is run by dedicated volunteers, which contributes to the site's unique charm and affordability.Reddit Their passion is evident, and they are often happy to share insights and stories, making the visit more personal and engaging. This volunteer-led ethos is a core part of Railworld's identity and a significant draw for many visitors.

A Community-Driven Gem

Railworld Wildlife Haven thrives on the dedication of its volunteers, who are the heart and soul of this unique attraction.Reddit This volunteer-led model means that visitor fees are kept low, offering exceptional value for money, especially for families.Reddit The staff's passion for both the railways and the wildlife is palpable, and they are known for being friendly, welcoming, and eager to share their knowledge.Reddit

This community spirit extends to the preservation efforts for items like the RTV 31 hovertrain, highlighting a commitment to heritage and education.Instagram Visitors often remark on the welcoming atmosphere and the genuine enthusiasm of everyone involved, making a visit feel less like a commercial transaction and more like supporting a beloved local project. It's this collective effort that makes Railworld a truly special place, deserving of recognition and support from the community and visitors alike.Reddit

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