A complete heritage railway experience, in miniature and full size.

The Model Railway Weekend will take place across two of the Bluebell Railway's principal stations: Sheffield Park and Horsted Keynes. By spreading the event across both sites, visitors will be able to enjoy a significantly expanded programme featuring a wide variety of model railway layouts, displays, and demonstrations, all set within the unique heritage surroundings of the railway. Each station will offer its own selection of attractions, encouraging visitors to explore more of the line and experience the event in full.

The Bluebell Railway's Model Railway Weekend offers far more than an outstanding collection of model layouts. It is a chance to enjoy the full Bluebell experience, combining the fascination of model railways with the sights, sounds, and atmosphere of one of Britain's leading heritage railways.

Throughout the weekend, visitors can enjoy heritage train rides along the line, travelling through the Sussex countryside behind beautifully restored locomotives. These services allow you to experience real steam and diesel traction alongside the model displays, making the event ideal for both enthusiasts and families.

The museum will be open, providing an opportunity to explore the history of the Bluebell Railway and the wider story of Britain's railways through carefully curated exhibits and artefacts. For those interested in restoration and engineering, the Carriage & Wagon Works will also be accessible, offering a fascinating insight into the skilled craftsmanship required to maintain and restore historic rolling stock.

A range of catering facilities will be available across the railway, including the Bessemer Arms at Sheffield Park, which will serve hot meals, light snacks, and refreshments throughout the day. Whether you're stopping for lunch or simply taking a break between layouts and train rides, there are plenty of options to suit all tastes.

The Model Railway Weekend is designed to be a full-day visit, blending model railway excellence with a living, working heritage railway. Whether your interest lies in detailed modelling, railway history, engineering, or simply enjoying a memorable day out, the Bluebell Railway offers an engaging and immersive experience for everyone.

This unique combination of models, museums, workshops, catering, and train travel makes the Bluebell Railway Model Railway Weekend a must-visit event on the calendar.