Swindon's Railway Village

Swindon Heritage Preservation (SHP) is the town’s only Building Preservation Trust, dedicated to combining community usage with conservation. We look after several heritage buildings in Swindon’s historic Railway Village, maximizing our social impact through restoration and vibrant year-round events.

Visit our Historic Venues.

The Bakers’: Our Heritage Hub, archive and cosy community space (formerly a bakery and pub) is available for hire. During Heritage Open Days (HODS), you can drop by for refreshments, homemade cakes and archive viewing.

The Cricketers’ Arms: Built in 1846, SHP holds a 125-year lease on this historic pub. Following major ground-floor restorations, it is now open for community use and will be open for tours during HODS.

Railway Village Museum: Experience "Meet The Smiths," a collaboration with Prime Theatre featuring immersive performances by costumed actors portraying family life in 1901. Booking is essential via our website.

The Central Community Centre proudly features a stunning display of handmade Victorian Costumes, showcasing the intricate craftsmanship of the era. Additionally, it hosts a permanent exhibition of local artist's work, celebrating the creative spirit of Swindon.

Guided Railway Village Tours depart from The Bakers’ Café at 11:00, 13:00 and 15:00.

Whether hiring our facilities or exploring our venues, get involved and help us keep Swindon's history alive.

Timings

Saturday 19 September:

1100 - 1600 , Railway Village Tours 11:00, 13:00 & 15:00, Meet The Smiths 11:00, 12:30 and 14:00

Location & directions

Emlyn Square, Swindon, Wiltshire, SN1 5BP

Directions:

There is plenty of parking available at the nearby Bristol Street Car Park (SN1 5EQ) only £1.50 for up to 5 hours. Great public transport links and close to Swindon Railway & Bus Station. 10 min walk from Bus Station & 7 min walk from Swindon Railway Station

Contact on day:

Community Engagement Officer

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:

Pre-booking preferred

Booking conditions:

To join a Railway Village guided tour, please confirm your interest via our website. The tour will begin promptly so please arrive at The Bakers', 16 Emlyn Square, 5-10 minutes before the published time.

Booking contact name:

Community Engagement Officer

Booking email:

[email protected]

Booking website:

https://mechanics-trust.org.uk/all-events/heritage-open-days-2026-2/

Booking opens:

01 Jul 2026 12:00 AM

Booking closes:

19 Sep 2026 10:00 AM

Additional information

On-site facilities varied by site. All sites are within short walking distance of each other.

Max number of people:

15

Estimated duration:

0 hour(s) 45 minute(s)

Check out our online channels

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