Nairobi Railway Museum
Nairobi Region
The Nairobi Railway Museum, located next to Nairobi's main railway station, showcases Kenya's railway history with a collection of steam and diesel locomotives, passenger coaches, and railway artifacts. Established in 1971 by the East African Railways and Harbours Corporation, the museum preserves the legacy of the now-defunct East African Railways. Its exhibits include operational steam locomotives stored under cover, with viewing by appointment, and a notable steam engine featured in the film "Out of Africa." The museum maintains a working miniature railway installed in 2011, enhancing visitor engagement. The collection also features early diesel engines and coaches, with support from railway enthusiasts to secure and display historical items. The museum’s rail connection facilitates movement and maintenance of exhibits, making it a unique living railway museum in the region.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to schedule appointments if they wish to view the operational steam locomotives, as these are securely stored and not regularly displayed. The best time to visit is during the dry season for comfortable exploration. Advance ticket purchase is recommended to avoid queues, and discounts may be available for groups and students. The miniature railway offers an engaging experience especially for families with children.
Interesting facts
- •One of the museum's steam locomotives, numbered 301 (2301), was featured in the 1985 film "Out of Africa."
- •The museum maintains a working miniature railway installed in 2011, originally used to promote Kenya Railways at exhibitions.
- •The WG Bagnall engine named 'Hugh F Marriott' was built in Stafford, England, in 1951 and operated at the Magadi Soda Company before being displayed at the museum.
- •The museum is unique in East Africa for maintaining an active rail connection to facilitate exhibit movement and maintenance.
History
The Nairobi Railway Museum was opened in 1971 by the East African Railways and Harbours Corporation to preserve the history of rail transport in East Africa.
It holds artifacts from the now-defunct East African Railways.
Over the decades, it has maintained its rail connection, allowing exhibits to be moved and serviced.
In 2011, the museum enhanced its interactive offerings by installing a working miniature railway, formerly used for promotional purposes.
The museum has evolved to become a key custodian of Kenya's rail heritage, operated by Kenya Railways today.
Place Guide
Main Exhibition Hall
The central area displays a variety of historic steam and diesel locomotives alongside passenger coaches, illustrating the evolution of railway technology in East Africa.
Operational Steam Locomotives Storage
Secure covered area housing the museum's three operational steam locomotives. Viewing is by appointment only due to preservation needs.
Miniature Railway2011
A working miniature petrol-engine locomotive with wooden coaches, installed in 2011 to provide an interactive experience and showcase railway heritage to visitors, especially families.
Contact
Phone: 0709 907411
