Located at 5 Darling Street in the heart of Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, Headhunters Barber Shop & Railway Museum is a one-of-a-kind attraction that combines a working barber shop with a rich collection of Irish railway memorabilia. Established in 1997 by brothers Gordon and Nigel Johnston, this registered charity (No. 100822) celebrates the history of Fermanagh’s railways, which operated until their closure in 1957. The museum, recognised with awards like the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service and runner-up in the London Heritage Railway Association Awards (2017, 2018), offers a unique blend of history, nostalgia, and community spirit.
- Unique Dual Headhunters is the world’s only combined barber shop and railway museum. Visitors can get a professional haircut or beard trim by the Johnston brothers, who have served multiple generations since opening in 1981, while exploring an extensive collection of railway artifacts. The barber shop’s welcoming atmosphere, paired with its historical displays, creates a quirky and memorable visit.
- Railway Memorabilia Collection: The museum boasts one of the largest collections of small Irish railway artifacts, focusing on three local railway companies: the Great Northern Railway (Ireland), the Sligo, Leitrim & Northern Counties Railway, and the Clogher Valley Railway. Exhibits include uniforms, signaling instruments, signs, lamps, tableware, timetables, tickets, and photographs, many donated by former railway employees. Notable items include a display case of smuggled goods from Fermanagh’s trains and a violin crafted by station-master Thomas Moore, who played between train arrivals at Bundoran Junction.
- Immersive Exhibits: The journey begins at a reconstructed booking office, where a ticket collector statue invites visitors to “step on board.” The museum recreates the golden age of steam travel through meticulously curated displays, such as the Station Master’s Office, Ladies Waiting Room, and Signal Cabin. These exhibits vividly recreate railway travel in Fermanagh and the border counties up to 1957.
- Model Railway: A highlight for visitors, especially children and railway enthusiasts, is the large model railway on the second floor. This detailed layout, popular with model railway societies, offers an interactive glimpse into the region’s rail history. Volunteers occasionally demonstrate the model in action, augmenting the experience.
- Self-Guided and Guided Tours: Admission is free, with a donation box supporting the museum’s upkeep. Visitors can take a self-guided tour with a free leaflet to learn about the exhibits, spending anywhere from 10 minutes for a casual visit to over an hour for a deeper exploration. Guided tours or illustrated talks on Fermanagh’s railways are available for groups and schools by prior arrangement, offering a more in-depth experience.
- Family-Friendly and Accessible: The museum is a hit with families due to its compact size and engaging displays, particularly the model railway. Visitors praise the friendly, knowledgeable staff and volunteers, who often share personal anecdotes. The museum is on the first and second floors, accessible by stairs, which may limit access for those with mobility issues. Assistance dogs are welcome, but visitors should confirm accessibility details via the museum’s website or contact.
- Community and Heritage Focus: Run by volunteers and the Johnston brothers, the museum relies on donations and embodies a labor of love. Its community-driven ethos, recognised by awards, makes it a cherished local gem. Visitors often note the warm welcome and the passion of the staff, who balance barbering with sharing railway history.
- Location and Nearby Attractions: Situated in central Enniskillen, the museum is easily accessible via the A4, with on-site parking available. Nearby attractions include Enniskillen Castle, the Fermanagh County Museum, and dining options like Little Wing Pizzeria, The Devenish Lounge, and the Jolly Sandwich, all within a short walk. The museum’s location makes it an ideal stop for a day of exploring Fermanagh’s heritage.
- The museum and barber shop are open Tuesday to Saturday, 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM, and closed on Sundays, Mondays, and bank holidays. Visitors are advised to confirm hours before visiting, as the museum relies on volunteer availability.
New developments
- Expanded Model Railway Features: While the model railway is a long-standing highlight, ongoing efforts to enhance it were noted in past years., visitors will see new additions or improvements to the layout, such as updated models or interactive elements, as the museum continues to grow its collection. These updates aim to keep the exhibit engaging for returning visitors and railway enthusiasts.
- Volunteer Programme Enhancements: The museum is actively seeking additional volunteers to support its operations, ensuring more consistent tour availability and introducing new guided experiences. This initiative responds to increased visitor numbers, particularly from staycationers post-Covid, and aims to maintain the museum’s high standard of hospitality.
Practicalities:
- Visitor Feedback: Reviews on platforms like Tripadvisor highlight Headhunters as a “hidden gem” for railway enthusiasts and history lovers, with praise for its unique concept and friendly staff. Some visitors suggest adding more interactive elements for younger audiences, which may influence 2025 developments. The museum’s free admission and donation-based model make it accessible to all.
- Planning Your Visit: To ensure the best experience, visitors should contact the museum in advance for guided tours or group visits, especially during peak seasons. The compact size means it pairs well with other Enniskillen attractions for a half-day outing.
Headhunters Barber Shop & Railway Museum offers a delightful mix of traditional barbering and immersive railway history, making it a recommended visit for those seeking a quirky, educational, and community-focused experience in Enniskillen. For the latest updates on 2025 offerings, check www.headhuntersmuseum.com
