Westwood Industrial Estate, Westwood, Margate CT9 4JX

The Hornby Visitor Centre


Location

About

The Hornby Visitor Centre is a must-visit destination for any model train enthusiast or anyone interested in the history of one of England's most iconic toy brands. Located in the seaside town of Margate, England, the Visitor Center offers a fun and educational experience for tourists of all ages.

As soon as you step inside the Hornby Visitor Centre, you are immediately transported to a world of model trains, vintage toys, and the rich history of Hornby. The Visitor Centre showcases a vast collection of Hornby products, including the famous model trains, train sets, and accessories that have captivated generations of children and adults alike.

The Visitor Centre offers visitors a variety of activities to enjoy, including interactive exhibits, hands-on activities, and a chance to see some of the iconic Hornby products in action. You can explore the history of Hornby, from its origins as a clockwork toy manufacturer in the early 20th century to its current position as one of the world's leading model train brands. The center features informative displays and interactive exhibits that highlight the company's history and showcase its products, including rare and unique items from the Hornby archive.

One of the most exciting parts of the Visitor Centre is the opportunity to see model trains in action. The center boasts a number of impressive layouts that showcase the full range of Hornby products, from classic steam trains to modern electric models. Visitors can watch as the trains run around the intricate layouts, complete with detailed scenery and buildings that add to the realism of the experience.

For children, the Visitor Centre offers a range of fun activities to keep them entertained, including a train-themed soft play area, a coloring station, and a chance to drive a model train on a small layout. There is also a gift shop on-site where visitors can purchase Hornby products and other souvenirs to take home.

Overall, the Hornby Visitor Centre is an excellent destination for anyone with an interest in model trains, toys, or the history of Hornby. With its informative exhibits, interactive displays, and impressive layouts, the center provides a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages. So if you're visiting Margate, be sure to add the Hornby Visitor Centre to your itinerary and discover the magic of one of England's most iconic toy brands.

Gallery

Things to do nearby

The Hornby Visitor Centre is a popular destination for tourists visiting the Lancashire region of England. The centre is located in the village of Hornby, which is situated in the Lune Valley and surrounded by stunning countryside. Here are some of the best places to visit and things to do nearby the Hornby Visitor Centre.

1. Hornby Castle Gardens
The Hornby Castle Gardens are a beautiful and tranquil place to visit. The gardens are located next to Hornby Castle and offer a variety of different plants, flowers, and trees to enjoy. Visitors can wander through the different garden areas and admire the stunning views of the countryside.

2. Lune Valley Ramble
The Lune Valley Ramble is a beautiful walk that takes visitors through the picturesque countryside surrounding Hornby. The walk is around six miles long and takes visitors through fields, woodlands, and along the River Lune. There are plenty of opportunities to stop and admire the views, and there are several pubs and cafes along the way to grab a bite to eat.

3. Wray Castle
Wray Castle is a stunning 19th-century castle located just a short drive from Hornby. The castle is open to the public and visitors can explore the different rooms and learn about the history of the building. There are also several walks and trails around the castle that offer beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.

4. Ingleton Waterfalls Trail
The Ingleton Waterfalls Trail is a stunning four-mile walk that takes visitors through a series of waterfalls and beautiful woodland. The trail is well signposted and offers plenty of opportunities to stop and admire the views. There are several cafes and pubs along the route to grab a bite to eat or a drink.

5. Lancaster Canal
The Lancaster Canal is a beautiful waterway that runs through the Lune Valley. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the towpath and admire the stunning views of the countryside. There are also several pubs and cafes along the canal where visitors can stop for a drink or a meal.

6. Williamson Park
Williamson Park is a beautiful park located in the nearby city of Lancaster. The park offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding countryside and has a variety of different attractions, including a butterfly house, a mini zoo, and several playgrounds. There are also several cafes and a restaurant in the park where visitors can grab a bite to eat.

7. Lancaster Castle
Lancaster Castle is a historic castle located in the heart of Lancaster. The castle has a long and fascinating history and visitors can take a tour of the different rooms and learn about the castle's past. There are also several exhibitions and events held at the castle throughout the year.

In conclusion, there are plenty of places to visit and things to do nearby the Hornby Visitor Centre. From beautiful walks through the countryside to historic castles and stunning gardens, there is something for everyone in the Lancashire region. Visitors can explore the natural beauty of the area, learn about its history and culture, and enjoy delicious food and drink along the way.

Opening Hours

Monday 10 am–4 pm
Tuesday 10 am–4 pm
Wednesday 10 am–4 pm
Thursday 10 am–4 pm
Friday 10 am–4 pm
Saturday 10 am–4 pm
Sunday 10 am–4 pm

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