The railway line was originally constructed in 1884 as part of the GOLS (Geldersch-Overijsselsche Lokaalspoorweg-Maatschappij) network.
The line was saved from demolition in 1967 when a group of enthusiasts established the museum foundation.
The museum maintains an operational steam engine that is over 100 years old.
The track connects the towns of Haaksbergen and Boekelo, following the historical route used by regional industry.
The museum operates one of the few remaining examples of a steam-powered regional railway in the Netherlands.
Restoration of carriages often utilizes original materials and techniques to maintain historical authenticity.
Museum Buurtspoorweg is a heritage railway museum in Haaksbergen, Netherlands, operating vintage steam trains on the original GOLS railway line. The museum manages a fleet of authentic steam locomotives and carriages dating from the late 19th to mid-20th century. Visitors travel on a six-kilometer track between Haaksbergen and Boekelo through the Twente countryside. The museum actively preserves and restores Dutch railway history, functioning as a living archive of local public transport. Its collection includes specialized rolling stock that illustrates the evolution of rural rail logistics. The station buildings at both ends serve as exhibition spaces, housing historical artifacts and period-accurate signage. The museum is maintained primarily by volunteers who manage both the track maintenance and train operations.
The pedestrian bridge at the Haaksbergen station provides an elevated view of the steam engine departure.
Bring a windbreaker or sweater, as open-window carriages can get chilly even in summer.
Check the train schedule in advance to align your visit with the steam locomotive departure times.
Allow time to walk around the station grounds at Boekelo to observe the engine shunting processes.
Do not expect a modern, high-speed rail experience; this is a slow-paced, historic excursion.
Operations are primarily seasonal, running mostly from spring through autumn with limited services during winter months; trains typically do not run on weekdays outside of peak holiday periods.
