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

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Volunteer staff are present

Railworld Wildlife Haven
Best Time
Volunteer staff are present

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

🎯 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:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

Mainline Train Spotting
Viewing platforms
Watch mainline trains from Scotland to London pass by. A thrilling experience for train spotters of all ages.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Volunteer-Run Charm
Train Spotting & Nature
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 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:
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
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
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Railworld Wildlife Haven is located on Oundle Road, Peterborough, PE2 9NR. It's accessible by car and offers a unique experience close to the city centre.
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. 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. 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.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore indoor and outdoor railway displays, including a large Hornby 00 gauge layout and a Thomas & Friends layout. The wildlife haven offers walking paths, viewing platforms for mainline trains, and beautiful gardens.
Railworld often hosts special events like Family Fun Days, Craft Fairs, Model Railway Operator Days, and Photograph Days. 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. Its current status and accessibility may vary, so inquire on-site for details.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, light refreshments are available at the Wansford Café. 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.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, Railworld offers diverse photographic opportunities, from detailed model trains to scenic garden views and passing mainline trains. They even host dedicated photography days.
The viewing platforms for mainline trains, the intricate model railway layouts, and the well-maintained gardens all provide excellent backdrops for photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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
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. 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
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
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. The area is noted for its birdlife, offering a peaceful environment for nature lovers and a safe space for children to explore. 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. 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
This community spirit extends to the preservation efforts for items like the RTV 31 hovertrain, highlighting a commitment to heritage and education. 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.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit