Step into a world where imagination, innovation, and craftsmanship come together at The WonderWorks!
The WonderWorks is a brand-new, reimagined visitor experience from Hornby Hobbies, celebrating over a century of model making magic and inspiring generations of creators.
Explore. Play. Create.
At The WonderWorks, visitors are encouraged to get hands-on and dive into the world of models through four exciting core experiences:
- Control: Bring model railways to life using the cutting-edge HM7000 Control System, putting the power of the tracks right at your fingertips
- Race: Feel the thrill of high-speed action as you experience the Grand Prix Du Margate Circuit and race through the dramatic streets of Batman’s Gotham City
- Build: Unleash your creativity by building miniature icons from history, including aircraft, tanks, cars, and more – a celebration of detail, design, and imagination
- Discover: Explore the wider world of Hornby with help from the knowledgeable WonderWorks team, who are on hand to guide, inspire, and support every visitor’s journey
The history of Hornby:
The story begins more than 100 years ago with Frank Hornby, whose passion for inventing and belief in educational play led him to create toys that would spark curiosity and creativity in his own children – and eventually, millions more around the world. Today, that journey continues at The WonderWorks, bringing Hornby’s incredible legacy firmly into the present day.
Located in Margate, The WonderWorks is housed in the historic factory that became the home of Hornby Hobbies in 1954. The site previously welcomed hundreds of thousands of visitors as the Hornby Visitor Centre, and was famously featured in the TV series Hornby: A Model World.
Whether you’re a lifelong model enthusiast, a curious beginner, or a family looking for an unforgettable day out, The WonderWorks connects people with their passions and the brands they love. It’s a place where nostalgia meets innovation, and where new memories are made alongside timeless classics.