Pendon Indoor Model Village and Railways

Address
Long Wittenham,
Abingdon,
Oxfordshire
South East
OX14 4QD

About

Pendon Museum preserves the idyllic rural scene and transport of the 1920s and 30s in a miniature form for future generations to enjoy.

We provide insights and information about the rural landscape in the 1920s and 30s through the medium of the most detailed and accurate models possible. We aim to create a fascinating and enjoyable experience that lasts about 2 hours.

You start with a general introduction to the origins and aims of the museum together with the history of the exhibits.

Madder Valley Railway pioneered scenic railway modelling and dates from the late 1930s. Because of its fragility we can only run it on a few pre-announced days during the year. When it’s not running there is a short video and copious annotation to help you appreciate every nuance.

The Dartmoor scene features a variety of trains running through a West Country landscape across a classic Brunel viaduct. You can get very close to the models and admire the level of detail. There is always a live commentary and opportunity to ask questions of our knowledgeable guides.

The Vale scene occupies most of the upper floor and is one of the foremost models anywhere. It is truly a benchmark for all fine scale modelling. The buildings, scenery and railways are built to meticulous standards of accuracy. It is populated with highly realistic people, machinery and wildlife – and we provide binoculars so you can see the smallest of them!

Guides are on hand to help provide background information on the models and their historical, geographic and social context.

Returning to the ground floor you have the opportunity to buy gifts and souvenirs in our shop, which has also a limited number of model railway books and accessories.

Finally you can enjoy light refreshments in our café and a final conversation with our knowledgeable and friendly volunteer staff.

For opening times and further information please see the Pendon Museum website.