Eisenbahnmuseum Metelen Land

About the museum

Metelen Land station on the Münster–Enschede line opened in 1875 and is considered the only half-timbered station in the area. When the station was downgraded to a mere halt in 1984, the reception building was threatened with demolition. The Eisenbahn-Interessengemeinschaft Metelen, founded in 1986, saved the building, which is now listed, and has run a museum in it ever since; the NRW-Stiftung supported its conversion.

On display are the station's fully preserved, still functioning mechanical signalling technology, a ticket printer, a passenger scale with ticket dispenser, level crossing barrier systems, a model railway and an extensive collection of railwaymen's uniforms and caps. On the grounds is a demonstration track about 100 metres long with a set of points, on which a replica hand-lever handcar can be operated; the association also owns an industrial diesel locomotive, a saloon car and track-building equipment.

Several species of bats live in the attic; openings for entering and leaving were specially created for them during the conversion.

Highlights

• Fully functioning mechanical lever frame signal box
• Hand-lever handcar to try out yourself on the demonstration track
• Collection of railwaymen's uniforms and caps
• Listed half-timbered station of 1875

Permanent exhibitions

• Bahnhof und Stellwerk – Original signalling technology, ticket printer, level crossing barriers and uniform collection in the historic reception building.
• Freigelände mit Schaugleis – Track with points, hand-lever handcar, industrial diesel locomotive and other vehicles of the association.

Founded

1986

Operated by

Eisenbahn-Interessengemeinschaft Metelen e.V.

Admission & discounts

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Accessibility

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Kids & families

• Hands-on stations

On the demonstration track, visitors can move a replica hand-lever handcar with their own muscle power.

Getting there & parking

The station is located between Metelen and Wettringen near the B 70; a sign leads from the federal road to the museum.

Amenities & dining

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Events & venue rental

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Plan your visit