About
Discover the magic of history at the Pendon Museum in Abingdon! Step inside and witness a world meticulously recreated in extraordinary detail. Immerse yourself in the charm of rural England as you explore the museum's breathtaking scale models.
Pendon Museum preserves the idyllic rural scene and transport of the 1920s and 30s in a miniature form for future generations to enjoy. Whilst visiting you'll find the:
Vale Scene - An ambitious model of the countryside of Vale of White Horse as it was in the 1930s. It recaptures in miniature an impression of the calm unhurried beauty of the past.
Madder Valley Railway - John Ahern’s famous and pioneering Madder Valley layout. Note that the model runs on a few specific days during the year.
Dartmoor and Seawall - Pendon's first diorama portraying an imaginary GWR branch line in the west country.
There's something for everyone:
Family Trails. We have 'I-Spy' style family trails to follow individually or as a family group. They are designed for 6 year olds and upwards and are a great way for families to experience the museum, identify details and understand more about life in 1930s. On completing a Trail children are rewarded with a Pendon fridge magnet. Here you can download and print the pdfs or load them onto a smartphone to use at the museum.
Audio Guide. Our free audio guide (included with your entry) relates the models to aspects of life such as working on the railways and life and work in rural villages. The guide is complimentary to all visitors making a Gift Aid donation.
Junior modelling. We run 'drop-in' modelling sessions for 6-14 year olds on school holiday Wednesdays. These are free and each child completes a small diorama to take home while learning modelling skills.
But it's not just about models and trains; it's about creating memories with your loved ones. Make it a family day out, where young and old alike can embark on a captivating journey and create memories that will last a lifetime.
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