Established in 1987 as Crewe Railway Age it returned to its original name of Crewe Heritage Centre in early 2008. The museum is located in the old London, Midland and Scottish Railway yard, which was once part of Crewe Works, between the junction to Chester and the West Coast Main Line. The centre has a series of exhibits, ranging from the only surviving APT-P train, miniature railways, three open signal boxes (Crewe Station A, Crewe North Junction and Exeter West), and a varied collection of standard gauge steam, diesel and electric locomotives, as well as occasional visiting locomotives. The Main Exhibition Hall features many artefacts and exhibits associated with Crewe from its locomotive and carriage construction, and famous junction railway station. Brake Van rides are available to the public during special events. APT No.370 003/006 at Crewe heritage Centre: Built by BR in the 1970s and 1980s, this Class 370 Advanced Passenger Train (APT) is the only surviving APT set. It is open at all times, with an occasional cafe run from the original buffet car (selected days only). The APT-P museum can be found inside one of the carriages, with photographs on display from the APT project. The set was tilted for the first time in preservation in 2013.
Of the signal boxes Crewe North Junction was built uilt in 1939 and designed to withstand the Luftwaffe bombs of World War II, the box is constructed out of concrete and has an 18" thick roof and 15" thick walls. Located between the West Coast Main Line and Crewe - Chester line, its location is perfect for viewing passing mainline trains. Demonstrations of how the box was used often take place, and are linked to a simulator. In 1987 the building was extended to provide more room for the Heritage Centre, including a cafe and small shop, and to include a large USA model railway. Exeter West: used to control the split at Exeter between the Great Western Railway and the Southern Railway. With 131 levers, it was a Special Class A signal box, with only the best signalmen authorised to operate it. Since being rebuilt at Crewe, volunteers operate it on every weekend using a demonstration 1960s timetable, which include the hectic Summer Saturday service, which saw famous expresses such as the Torbay Express, Atlantic Coast Express and the Cornishman. Both mainline and miniature railways operate on most weekends. The standard gauge railway uses either the [British Rail Class 03]] 03 073, [British Rail Class 47] D1842, [47192] or ex-Direct Rail Services British Rail Class 47 47 712. A cylinder and Caprotti valve gear from the locomotive Duke of Gloucester forms part of a permanent display. There may also be occasional visiting locomotives. Most of the site is level, but there is no wheelchair access to signal boxes. Adapted toilet facilities are provided.
Location : Vernon Way, Crewe CW1 2DB
Transport: Crewe (National Rail) 10 min. Bus routes 39 and 44 stop nearby.
Opening Times: Saturday / Sunday 10:00 to 16:30.
Opening Times - School Holidays: Daily 10:00 to 17:00
Tickets: Adults £7.00. Seniors/Children £5.00.
Tel: 01270 212130
