Canberra Railway Museum, located in Kingston, offers a captivating journey through over a century of railway history in the Australian Capital Territory. The museum boasts an extensive collection of rolling stock and locomotives, showcasing a diverse range of trains that have played significant roles in the region’s development. Visitors can explore unique exhibits, such as the steam locomotive 1210 that brought the first train to Canberra in 1914, and experience the evolution of sleeping cars from the early 1900s to the stylish designs of the 1960s.
Aside from its impressive array of trains, Canberra Railway Museum also features a variety of historical artifacts that provide insights into the rich heritage of the railways in the area. From carriages that transported politicians to Parliament to those carrying wounded soldiers and skiers to the Snowy Mountains, each display offers a glimpse into the diverse roles railways have played in shaping Canberra’s past. The museum’s visitor center further delves into the intriguing history of Canberra’s railways, highlighting stories and relics from the construction tramways and early light rail systems.
Managed by Capital Region Heritage Rail and ACT Heritage Rail Holdings, Canberra Railway Museum invites visitors to immerse themselves in the golden age of rail travel every Sunday from 10am to 3pm. With admission fees catering to adults, concessions, and children, the museum aims to make this enriching experience accessible to all. Through its engaging exhibits, the museum not only educates visitors about the deep connection between the Australian Capital Territory and its railways but also preserves and celebrates the legacy of this vital mode of transportation.