Vicinal Historic Tramway Discovery Centre

This museum has many trams on display. It is run by passionate volunteers. This unique feature means that, when you arrive, you don’t just enter this world, but have experiences shared with you. A vibrant visit, especially thanks to your tram ride.

The star of public transport: the tram

You can see more than thirty life-size trams here. Some are steam powered, others electric and some of the more recent ones are powered by diesel. You can also see many locomotives, ranging from a steam-traction vehicle from 1888 to a locomotive from 1960.

It is worth bearing in mind that we are talking about the local railway. This means that the trams were dedicated to transport between rural villages. They made it possible to link secondary zones that were not accessible via the main railway system. Still, this network covers more than 6,000 kilometres.

This network brings back many memories for visitors over the age of 50. Some can even remember taking the tram when they were little kids.

A historic tram ride

The museum is located in the former Thuin-Ouest train station. It occupies the former 109 line of the Belgian railway system. The line connects Mons and Chimay. It was closed to the public in 1964. Fortunately, this group of volunteers was able to preserve a few kilometres of rails so that visitors can travel aboard a tram.

Three lines are still in operation and give a glimpse into travelling in a bygone era. Climb aboard a steam tram with a heat-powered engine on the Biesme-sous-Thuin line. Try the electric locomotive to Lobbes-Entreville. The last line takes us to the lower city of Thuin. This is only available on Sundays. It allows you to discover the historic buildings in Thuin (the belfry, the collegiate church of Saint Ursmer, etc.).

This is a one-of-a-kind experience.

Event planning

This discovery centre is not like a traditional museum and also welcomes the public for private events. The idea of organising an away day with your company or a reception between the trams is quite appealing. Capacity ranges from 50 to 200 people.

This unique setting reminds us of rail travel in the last century and introduces younger generations to the small rail revolution that took place in Belgium during this period.

A quick tip: before visiting, check the website for the tram schedules.

Want to ride aboard a tram?