ASVi museum
About This Museum
Forget your standard, hushed museum experience. The ASVi isn't just a place where trams are displayed; it's a living, breathing tribute to Belgium's incredible vicinal network—the local tram system that once connected the entire country. You walk in and the scale is the first thing that hits you: massive, historic trams and locomotives are parked in the old depot, many looking like they've just rolled in from a day's work. The smell of old oil and polished wood fills the air, making the past feel incredibly immediate. It’s a genuine ‘wow’ moment for anyone, not just train buffs.
Collection Highlights
The star of the show is undoubtedly the authentic steam tram locomotive, a soot-stained beast that looks straight out of an industrial revolution documentary. Beyond that, you'll find beautifully restored passenger carriages with their original wooden benches and a collection of freight wagons that tell the story of how goods moved around Belgium. Don't miss the smaller details either, like the vintage ticket machines and period advertisements plastered inside.
Visitor Information
The absolute best part? On certain days, you can actually hop on one of these historic trams for a scenic ride through the Thudinie countryside—it completely transforms the visit from static to spectacular. Check their website for the running days because it's 100% worth planning your trip around.
Architecture & Building
Housed in the original, no-frills tram depot and workshops, it's all functional brickwork, vast arched windows, and soaring ceilings designed to accommodate these giants of the rail.
Contact & Location
Address: Association pour la Sauvegarde du Vicinal, 2A, Rue du Fosteau, Les Waibes, La Maladrie, Thuin, Hainaut, Wallonie, 6530, België / Belgique / Belgien
Phone: +32 71 37 00 05
Website: Visit Website
