Mail Rail at The Postal Museum

Location

About

London is a city full of history and culture, and one of its hidden gems is the Mail Rail at The Postal Museum. The Mail Rail is an underground train system that was used to transport mail across London for over 75 years, from 1927 to 2003. Today, it is a tourist attraction that allows visitors to experience what it was like to work in the mail service during the height of its operation.

The Postal Museum is located in the heart of London, close to other popular attractions such as the British Museum and the London Eye. The museum itself is dedicated to the history of the postal service in Britain, and features exhibits and interactive displays that showcase the evolution of the service over the centuries. However, the highlight of the museum is undoubtedly the Mail Rail ride.

The Mail Rail ride takes visitors on a 15-minute journey through the underground tunnels of the Mail Rail system. The ride is a unique experience, as visitors get to see what it was like to work on the trains that transported mail across London. The trains themselves are small and narrow, and visitors have to sit in rows facing each other, just like the mail workers would have done. The ride is accompanied by a commentary that explains the history and workings of the Mail Rail system, as well as the various sights that can be seen along the way.

One of the most impressive aspects of the Mail Rail ride is the sheer scale of the Mail Rail system. The tunnels run for over 6 miles, and at their peak, they were used to transport up to 4 million letters and parcels every day. The tunnels themselves are also quite impressive, with curved walls and brick arches that give them a distinctive look.

Aside from the Mail Rail ride, there are plenty of other things to see and do at The Postal Museum. The museum features a range of exhibits and displays that showcase the history of the postal service, including the famous Penny Black stamp, the first adhesive postage stamp in the world. There are also interactive exhibits that allow visitors to try their hand at sorting mail, and a range of artefacts that demonstrate the evolution of the postal service over time.

Overall, the Mail Rail at The Postal Museum is a fascinating and unique tourist attraction that is well worth a visit. It offers a glimpse into the past, allowing visitors to experience what it was like to work on the trains that transported mail across London. The museum itself is also informative and engaging, with plenty of exhibits and displays that showcase the history of the postal service in Britain. Whether you're a history buff or just looking for something different to do in London, The Postal Museum and Mail Rail are not to be missed.

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Things to do nearby

Mail Rail at The Postal Museum is a unique and fascinating attraction in London that offers visitors a chance to experience the history of the city's underground mail train network. However, there is much more to explore in the surrounding area that is sure to appeal to tourists of all ages and interests.

For those looking to continue their exploration of London's transport history, a visit to the nearby Transport Museum may be in order. Located just a few minutes' walk from Mail Rail, the museum offers an extensive collection of historic vehicles, from classic cars and motorcycles to iconic red London buses and the world-famous Underground trains. Visitors can also enjoy interactive exhibits and hands-on activities that offer a fascinating insight into the development of transportation in the city.

If you are interested in art and culture, the British Museum is a must-visit destination. Just a short bus or tube ride away from Mail Rail, this world-renowned museum houses an incredible collection of artifacts from around the globe, including the Rosetta Stone, the Parthenon sculptures, and the Easter Island statues. There are also frequent special exhibitions that showcase a diverse range of artworks and cultural objects.

For those who enjoy exploring the great outdoors, a visit to nearby Russell Square or Bloomsbury Square is highly recommended. These peaceful parks offer a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of the city, with plenty of green space to relax in, play games or have a picnic. They are also home to several statues and monuments that commemorate famous figures from history, such as Mahatma Gandhi and Charles Dickens.

If you are a foodie, then a visit to the Exmouth Market is a must. Located just a few minutes' walk from Mail Rail, this bustling street is home to a diverse range of independent food stalls and eateries. Here, you can enjoy everything from artisanal coffee and fresh pastries to delicious street food from around the world, including Japanese, Mexican, and Middle Eastern cuisine.

Finally, no visit to London would be complete without a trip to the West End to catch a show. From musicals and plays to comedy and cabaret, there is something to suit every taste and budget. The area is also home to some of the city's most iconic landmarks, including the bright lights of Piccadilly Circus and the historic Theatre Royal Drury Lane.

In conclusion, Mail Rail at The Postal Museum is just one of the many exciting attractions in London's vibrant city center. Whether you are interested in history, art, food, or simply exploring new places, there is plenty to see and do in the surrounding area that is sure to make your visit to the capital a truly memorable one.