Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of rail: a guided visit to the Train World museum
Updated March 12, 2023 by pierre
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Welcome to all train and rail transport enthusiasts! Today, we are going to explore the Train World museum, located in Schaerbeek station in Brussels. Are you ready to embark on a journey through time aboard the trains of yesterday and today? So, on to this guided tour!
History of the Train World Museum
Before diving into the railway world of the Train World museum, let's first take a look at its history. It all started in the 2000s, when the SNCB decided to transform the old Schaerbeek station into a museum dedicated to the train and its history. After years of work and renovation, the museum opened in 2015 and has since welcomed thousands of visitors each year. It took 10 years to prepare for the opening!
Permanent collections
You will start your visit in the historic buildings of Schaerbeek station. You will not be able to ignore that these have remained unchanged since 1887. The spacious hall has the same look as before with its wooden furniture which reveals the counters of train tickets, station clocks, as well as other items from different eras. On large screens you will see the fascinating history of the railway.
The Train World museum is divided into several sections. Each is devoted to a specific aspect of rail transport.
- The section " trains of the world » invites you to discover an impressive collection of locomotives and wagons dating from different eras.
- The section " Grand Lignes » meanwhile, invites you to board a train from the 1930s for a journey through time
- The section " Belgium 1835-2015 traces the history of the Belgian railway, from its beginnings to today.
Temporary exhibitions
The Train World museum organizes temporary exhibitions, to offer new themes and subjects of reflection to the visitors. Until May 2023, the temporary exhibition "Trains and colors" invites you to discover the many facets of color in the world of rail. A fascinating and colorful exhibition that is sure to amaze you!
Proposed activities
The Train World museum also offers various activities for young and old. Workshops for children are organized regularly to introduce them to the world of trains in a fun way. Guided tours for groups are also available, for a more complete discovery of the museum and its history.
Architecture of Schaerbeek station
Finally, it is impossible to talk about the Train World museum without mentioning the architectural aspect of Schaerbeek station. The building, built in 1913, is a real gem of Belgian architectural heritage. A visit to the museum is therefore an opportunity to also discover the specificities of this emblematic building.
The station is impressive and does not go unnoticed! The architect Franz Seulen had it well thought out, both functional and aesthetic, it is a small architectural gem.
The station is characterized by its imposing facade which alternates line of pierre white, red brick, and columns and sculptures representing elements related to the world of rail, such as locomotives or angel wings symbolizing progress. You will find the main entrance to the station under a large green arcaded porch, which opens onto a majestic hall with an Art Nouveau glass roof.
Once inside, you will notice elegant waiting rooms, decorated with mosaics and frescoes, as well as a ticket office where you can buy your tickets. The building also houses a library, a performance hall and spaces dedicated to contemporary art.
Schaerbeek station is a jewel of Belgian architectural heritage, which attracts thousands of visitors every year, both for its beauty and for its history linked to the development of the railway in Belgium.
Practical information on Train World
📅 Opening hours from Train World to Brussels can vary depending on the day of the week and the time of year. In general, the museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 a.m. to 17:00 p.m.
It is important to note that the museum may have different hours during holidays or public holidays, so it is always advisable to check the opening times on the official Train World website before visiting the official website here.
🎫 Entrance fees for Train World in Brussels vary according to the age and situation of each visitor.
Here are the standard rates in effect in 2023:
- Adults: 12 euros
- Children and young people from 6 to 18 years old: 6 euros
- Children under 6 years old: free
- Disabled people and their companion: 6 euros
- Groups of more than 15 people (per person): 9 euros
It is also possible to buy combined tickets for Train World and other museums in Brussels, such as the Museum of Natural Sciences or the BELvue Museum. Or with the museum pass.
Conclusion
The Train World museum is a must-see destination for all fans of trains and railway history. The museum appeals to children and adults alike. It is aimed at railway workers but also perfectly at people foreign to the world of trains. With family, friends or children, the permanent and temporary collections are waiting for you! If you are passing through Brussels, don't miss this opportunity to discover the exciting world of rail!
