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For the Love of a Railway’s original Depot

Our hunt for a new home


Our Depot has always been about people as much as railways: somewhere to build, learn, share memories and enjoy good company. After two happy years in Chard Street, we are looking for a new home in Axminster town centre. There is plenty we want to do — and we are determined to keep our railway’s story bringing people together.


Old photo of viaduct as train crosses

A fond farewell

We were sad to leave the premises we transformed into our Depot. Over two years, they became a place of enjoyment, friendship and discovery for visitors and volunteers alike. We understand our landlord’s need for a commercial rent, but as trustees responsible for the charity’s sustainability, we had to recognise that it was beyond our means. We left with wonderful memories and much to build on.
For the Love of a Railway banner at McNeil House

A welcome just across the road

Thanks to Axminster Property, we enjoyed two very happy months in a temporary display space directly opposite our old Depot. It gave us a welcome opportunity to keep sharing our models and the railway’s story while we prepared for the next stage. We are very grateful for that helping hand.


Volunteer at work on a model

Still building … and brewing

Our busy builders now have a small workshop at Hunthay Industrial Estate on the edge of town. A short-term lease means they can stay together, continue their modelling and keep the ideas flowing — helped, of course, by plenty of tea. Keeping this team together is an important part of preparing for our next home.

The Mayor opens our Depot

Working on the next stop

The day we opened our Depot is a happy memory. We now need to develop the plan B that we always knew we might need - plus a plan C, and have possible locations in mind. There is more work to do before either becomes a firm plan, but both give us something positive to pursue.


Our volunteer guides a father and son team

A home with room for everyone

Our ambition is a welcoming town centre base where modellers can work, children can discover and create, and visitors can enjoy the extraordinary story of the Axminster to Lyme Regis railway. We also want room for conversations, shared memories and new friendships. The next Depot should help us develop everything we have learnt since mid 2024 about the good a little model railway can do for a community.


What we are looking for

  • Has to be in Axminster where our heart is
  • Around 750 sq ft of usable space
  • A modest cost we can sustain
  • Possible sharing of premises and costs
  • Room for modelling, displays and activities



Stay on board

Our search continues, and there will be more railway stories, activities and events along the way. Sign up for our free email newsletter to hear how our plans are progressing and what is coming next. You can unsubscribe at any time.
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Can you help us find it?

Do you know of suitable premises, a potential partner or an opportunity we should explore? A conversation or introduction could make all the difference. We would love to hear your ideas and find a practical way to give our Depot a new home.


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