The bicentenary exhibition train, named ‘Inspiration’, is set to begin its tour at the Severn Valley Railway in Worcestershire on 27 June. As part of the nationwide Railway 200 celebrations, marking 200 years of modern railways, this unique exhibition train will visit 60 locations across Britain over a year until summer 2026.
The touring exhibition, developed in collaboration with the National Railway Museum and operated by GB Railfreight, will showcase the rail industry’s past achievements, current innovations, and future career opportunities. Featuring interactive displays across four customised Mark 3 coaches, the train aims to engage visitors—particularly young people—and encourage them to consider diverse roles within the railway sector.
The coaches will include themed exhibits such as ‘Railway Firsts’, highlighting key milestones in rail innovation, and a ‘Wonderlab on Wheels’ offering hands-on engineering challenges. Additionally, the ‘Your Railway Future’ coach will highlight lesser-known rail careers, while a dedicated ‘Partner Zone’ will offer flexible exhibition spaces.
More than 200,000 visitors are expected over the 12-month period, and though entry to the train will be free, standard entry charges to host heritage railways or museums will still apply. Advance booking will be required, and registration for updates is currently open, with booking details set to be announced shortly after Easter.
Notably, the train’s schedule includes appearances in key locations such as the North East of England during September, aligning with the bicentenary of the historic Stockton and Darlington Railway’s inauguration in 1825.
For more details and to register for updates, visit www.railway200.co.uk.
