Dutch Railway

In the past, the Dutch Railways (NS) was the only transporter on the Dutch rail network. But since privatization the way was open for private companies to transport both people and cargo. Through cooperation and / or mergers with foreign companies, a wide range of equipment can be found on the rail network today.

The infrastructure is managed by ProRail and is a private company that falls under the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management.

The Silk route has been active for some time, this connection between China and the Netherlands by rail. This route runs from Beijing and Harbin to Amsterdam and is approximately 11,000 kilometers long. This connection runs through Russia and Eastern Europe to the Netherlands. In the future, a connection to the port of Rotterdam will also be established as Main Port for Europe and mainly for freight transport.

There are various rail and tram museums in the Netherlands that are run by volunteers. Everyone who is interested or has worked in the field from mechanic to driver can register. All equipment and accommodation is funded from the income of visitors, donors and sponsors.

The volunteers restore and maintain the equipment with great passion for the railway or tram company. Sometimes equipment is restored, which when lost arrives to factory new. Many railway companies donate or charge old iron prices for the required parts or sometimes complete sets themselves.

Some rail and tram museums have their own track from historical  times, which is also maintained by the volunteers. And sometimes, after an inspection, the equipment itself can drive on the main track.

Various, usually larger, museums are included on this website. A visit is definitely worth it if you are in the area