Steam Train Rides & Private Tour at Whitehead Railway Museum First Grand Central station train ride

Описание: On 9th August 2025, we set off on a day that Joseph had been waiting for — our very first train journey out of Belfast’s Grand Central Station. His excitement was sky-high, from the moment we stepped aboard, with train announcements and breathtaking views over Belfast Lough on the approach to Whitehead.

But the real magic began when we arrived at the RPSI Whitehead Railway Museum. What we thought would be a regular visit turned into a full, unforgettable adventure.

🚂 Highlights of the day include:

Riding the steam engine Guinness No.3 not once, but three times, thanks to Matthew and Rachele’s kindness and a bit of VIP treatment.

Exploring the signal box in detail, with Matthew bringing its hidden history to life through fascinating demonstrations and stories.

A private guided tour by Matthew, through the museum, packed with treasures:
• The workshops where restorations take place.
• The stables educational room, full of displays and history.
• Rows of steam engines on display, each with its own story.
• The carriage room, home to beautifully restored carriages, including the Royal carriage used by the Queen and Prince Philip, and the President’s train.
And so much more, you just have to watch to see it!

Finishing the day with a busy but memorable train ride back into Belfast Grand Central station.

This is the full movie version of our visit from start to finish, capturing not just the rides, but the history, demonstrations, and hidden gems inside the museum. Shorter videos will follow, but you can use the chapters to jump to your favourite moments.

A huge thank you to Matthew Wilson for giving us such a memorable experience, his knowledge and passion for trains, (buses, boats, and planes) is truly exceptional, and the way he shares it makes every moment fascinating and fun. Matthew’s dedication to preserving railway heritage and bringing history to life is inspiring anyone who knows him will know exactly what I mean! Be sure to check out his channels for even more incredible stories and insights.

Thanks also to Rachele, General Manager of Whitehead Railway Museum, it was wonderful to see you again after all these years, your kindness made our visit extra special, from allowing Joseph and Frances extra train rides to giving us the chance to stay behind and enjoy Matthew’s full guided tour. Everyone we met at the museum was lovely, and it’s clear how much they all love being part of this heritage.

0:00 – First train ride from Belfast Grand Central
8:35 – Views over Belfast Lough
14:00 – Whitehead Railway Museum & watching the steam train
18:10 – Riding Steam Train Guinness No.3
27:00 – Signal box tour with Matthew
38:00 – Walking by the yard: trains, Guinness coal loading, Ivan
41:00 – The Stables educational room & history boards
43:00 – Old engines 184, 186 & 85
44:00 – Guinness carriage & photo boards
46:00 – Museum galleries: cranes, workroom & steam train model
51:49 – Carriage shed: Royal & Presidential carriages, Engine 461
1:01:53 – Return train journey to Belfast
1:05:00 – City Hospital to final stop at Belfast Grand Central