CRICH TRAMWAY VILLAGE
CRICH TRAMWAY VILLAGE
Crich Tramway Village is no ordinary day out. The village setting of lovingly restored buildings is not only the perfect home for the National Tramway Museum, but also gives visitors the opportunity to experience the nostalgia of a time now past.
Visitors are welcome to ride the electric trams as often as they wish, though it’s hard not to be distracted by all the other activities going on.
The exhibition hall houses a collection of static trams and tells the story of the tram from its horse drawn origins to the near silent electric vehicles working today.
Stephenson’s Discovery Centre houses interactive displays with information about why trams were introduced to this country.
The former Derby Assembly Rooms façade houses two smaller exhibitions, one of which focuses on the reintroduction of the modern tramway systems in cities around the UK, and the other explores ‘The Art of Trams’ and how trams inspired creativity, including artwork, memorabilia, and decorative items.
Within the heart of the tramway village you will find the Forge Gift Shop, selling souvenirs and Barnett’s Traditional Sweet Shop. Should you need refreshment there is also a cafe and the Red Lion Pub, which welcome all members of the family whatever their age.
The Eagle Press is home to a small printing works, similar to that found in many towns and cities from the early 1800s to the late 1980s, when technology brought about the demise of the ancient art of letterpress printing.
The street furniture comes from a variety of towns and cities in the UK and the Red Lion originally stood near Stoke Minster, but as it was due to be demolished, Crich Tramway Village volunteer and architectural adviser, Jim Soper, saved the bricks, cleaned and mended them and transported them to the Museum, where it was rebuilt, mostly by a team of volunteers.
Part way along the tram track is the Wakebridge tram stop where you will also find more displays, including the cabmen’s shelter, which would have been used by cabbies with horse drawn trams in Bradford from 1877 for nearly 100 years to rest and shelter from the bad weather.
Children can let off steam in the adventure playground, while younger ones can make the most of the indoor tram themed soft play area.
The fascinating Woodland Walk allows visitors to stretch their legs on a trail that winds its way through native woodland and is dotted with sculptures and areas from which you can take in the breathtaking views of the Derwent Valley.
Dogs on a lead are welcome, (though not permitted in the café or indoor play area) and there are several picnic tables around the site.
Groups are welcome and there is a discount on admission for groups of 10 or more. There is free parking, plus free admission and refreshment voucher for the coach driver. Pre-bookings are required for groups, but payment is not required until the arrival date.
To book, please see: https://www.tramway.co.uk/plan-your-visit/group-bookings
There is a programme of special events planned throughout the season – please check the website for details:
https://www.tramway.co.uk/whatson/list/
Find, Follow & Contact Crich Tramway Village
Crich Tramway Village
Cromford Road
Crich
Matlock
Derbyshire DE4 5DP
Tel. 01773 854392
