The WonderWorks by Hornby Hobbies - Margate

Address: Westwood Industrial Estate, Westwood, Margate CT9 4JX.
Phone: 01843233500.
Website: wonderworksmargate.co.uk
Specialties: Museum.
Other points of interest: On-site services, Wheelchair-accessible car park, Wheelchair-accessible entrance, Wheelchair-accessible toilet, Restaurant, Toilet, Family friendly, Good for kids, Free parking lot, On-site parking.
Opinions: This company has 1465 reviews on Google My Business.
Average opinion: 4.4/5.

📌 Location of The WonderWorks by Hornby Hobbies

The WonderWorks by Hornby Hobbies Westwood Industrial Estate, Westwood, Margate CT9 4JX

⏰ Open Hours of The WonderWorks by Hornby Hobbies

  • Monday: 10 am–4 pm
  • Tuesday: Closed
  • Wednesday: 10 am–4 pm
  • Thursday: 10 am–4 pm
  • Friday: 10 am–4 pm
  • Saturday: 10 am–4 pm
  • Sunday: 10 am–4 pm

The WonderWorks by Hornby Hobbies: An Engaging Museum Experience

nestled within the Westwood Industrial Estate in Margate, The WonderWorks by Hornby Hobbies offers a captivating and interactive museum experience that appeals to visitors of all ages. This attraction stands out as a premier destination for families and hobbyists alike, focusing on the world of models, engineering, and creative play, making it a truly unforgettable outing.

Location and Accessibility

Addressed as Westwood Industrial Estate, Westwood, Margate CT9 4JX, The WonderWorks is strategically located in Margate, providing easy access for both tourists and local visitors. The venue is commendably equipped for guests with mobility issues, featuring a wheelchair-accessible car park, wheelchair-accessible entrance, and wheelchair-accessible toilet, ensuring that the visit is comfortable for everyone. Its position within the industrial estate might initially seem unassuming, but its unique offering makes it a noteworthy find.

Core Offerings and Specialties

The primary specialty of this facility is its expansive museum dedicated to Hornby Hobbies, encompassing a vast collection of model railways, vehicles, and related paraphernalia. The attraction goes beyond static displays, offering a high level of interactivity that is central to its appeal. Visitors can engage with model trains, airplanes, and cars, often participating in building or repairing these intricate models, fostering a hands-on learning experience. For enthusiasts and children in particular, the ability to physically interact with miniature worlds provides significant educational value and entertainment.

Facilities and Services

The museum complements its core exhibits with a range of amenities designed to enhance the visitor experience. A restaurant on-site provides a place for families to refuel during their visit, although visitor feedback on this particular service has been mixed in the past, highlighting a need for consistent quality. Additionally, the premises boast a well-stocked shop where visitors can purchase models, souvenirs, and related items to take home as mementos or to continue their hobby pursuits. Essential services like toilets are also available for visitor convenience.

Information and Recommendations

For those planning a visit, it is advisable to check the official website, accessible via wonderworksmargate.co.uk, for the most current opening hours, admission prices, and any special events or exhibitions. The venue is noted for being family friendly and good for kids, with activities tailored to engage younger visitors. The location offers free parking lot and on-site parking, providing a convenient option for those arriving by car, although it is recommended to arrive early during peak times to avoid potential queues, as some reviews mention it can get busy without being overwhelming.

Visitor Experience and Reputation

The facility has garnered a strong reputation, evidenced by its 1465 reviews on Google My Business, with an impressive average rating of 4.4 out of 5. This high level of customer satisfaction underscores the facility's ability to deliver a memorable and engaging experience for the vast majority of its visitors. While the overall consensus is positive, feedback regarding the restaurant service has occasionally highlighted areas for improvement, suggesting that while the museum and model displays are highly praised, the food service aspect requires attention to maintain the high standards visitors expect. Nonetheless, the core attractions and the welcoming, accessible environment are frequently lauded by those who visit.

Conclusion

Overall, The WonderWorks by Hornby Hobbies represents a significant and enjoyable cultural and recreational hub in Margate. It successfully combines historical model collections with modern interactive elements, providing an educational and fun environment. While mindful of the occasional service feedback, particularly concerning dining, the facility remains highly recommended for anyone seeking an entertaining and stimulating day out, especially families with children or enthusiasts of modeling and engineering. Its combination of engaging exhibits, accessibility features, and convenient location makes it a standout destination in the area.

👍 Reviews of The WonderWorks by Hornby Hobbies

The WonderWorks by Hornby Hobbies - Margate
Tony H.
3/5

Visiting was a itch that needed scratching and I am glad I did but it was let down by the restaurant. Yes it was busy but not packed, however the empty tables had not been cleared or wiped clean and were sticky. We ordered two coffees, a piece of cake and a sausage roll and the young lad serving us immediately forgot our order and then he dropped one of the coffees all over the floor. The cutlery was dirty and there were no napkins. The shop was well stocked and the exhibitions were really good.

The WonderWorks by Hornby Hobbies - Margate
Sean O.
5/5

What an amazing trip down memory lane. Only £5 to get in, I was a 58 year old child!

Fabulous displays about how Scalextric, Hornby and Airfix models are made. The chance to.have a go at Scalextric and watch and control Hornby trains on displays.

Lots of display cabinets full of nostalgia.

Great shop and a coffee shop too.

Spectacular.

The WonderWorks by Hornby Hobbies - Margate
Judith H.
5/5

We visited here so my husband could indulge himself and this place didn't fail to please. Very nicely set out with a big shop, and a super, very reasonably priced cafe.

The WonderWorks by Hornby Hobbies - Margate
Kevin M.
5/5

Alot to see and for children to interact with.

I'm in the process of building my own model railway layout so got alot of inspiration. Worth a visit.

The WonderWorks by Hornby Hobbies - Margate
Graham J.
5/5

If your stuck for something to do one morning or afternoon it is well worth a visit. You won't be there long probably no more than an hour, brought back a few memories and brings out the child in you a little. Displays and quality of the model making just amazing and the cafe was really good to.

The WonderWorks by Hornby Hobbies - Margate
Richard L.
4/5

Definitely worth a visit if you are in the area, but I wouldn't travel across the country for this alone. There is some interesting stuff in the museum + 3 working railway layouts, including one you can control, one large layout, and a smaller TT layout. But, they could do do much more. Some stuff well labelled and informative, and others with no info at all. A very well stocked shop, but all at full price when always cheaper from retailers. There is a decent cafe with average prices. Glad I went while I was in Margate, but would have felt frustrated if I'd travelled hours for this alone. Staff a great though, at least the guy I spoke with.

The WonderWorks by Hornby Hobbies - Margate
Sebastiano T.
4/5

A must for fans of the brands Hornby, Corgi, Airfix ...
I think it would be much more interesting if they can offer a tour of the factory (if something is still produced or developed on site)
The shop is huge and offers pretty much the whole catalog of those brands.
Ticket prices are very reasonable at £5

The WonderWorks by Hornby Hobbies - Margate
Tom H.
5/5

Our recent visit to The WonderWorks by Hornby Hobbies was an absolutely delightful experience. This museum offers incredible value, and it brought back so many cherished memories from my own childhood.

The museum is filled with a vast array of sets to explore and play with, which kept my two daughters, aged 8 and 4, thoroughly entertained. They were absolutely fascinated by the intricate details and the endless opportunities for imaginative play that each set provided.

Moreover, the shop at The WonderWorks is fantastic. The staff were incredibly helpful and knowledgeable, making our visit all the more enjoyable. Overall, our trip to The WonderWorks by Hornby Hobbies was wonderful, and I highly recommend it for its nostalgic charm, great value, and the sheer fun it offers for children and adults alike.

Go up