Exhibition train to visit Derby as part of 200 years of rail celebrations

As part of national celebrations to mark the 200th anniversary of the modern railway, a unique exhibition train will be visiting Alstom’s Derby site.

As part of Railway 200, the new touring train will be at the firm’s Litchurch Lane Works for The Greatest Gathering, which will take place from 1 to 3 August.

The sold-out event will present the largest temporary collection of rail exhibits in a generation, with Britain’s biggest and oldest remaining train factory open to the public for the first time in over 50 years.

Meanwhile, the Railway 200 touring train, named Inspiration, is expected to visit 60 locations across Britain over 12 months up to summer 2026, creating a buzz of interest and excitement at mainline stations, heritage railways and rail freight sites.

Curated in partnership with the National Railway Museum, it will be the only exhibition train on UK rail network and will promote the past, present and future of the railway, helping to attract the next generation of pioneering talent.

Andy Butters, managing director of Alstom’s Litchurch Lane Works, said: “We are delighted that Inspiration will be visiting our historic site in Derby as part of The Greatest Gathering.

“The Railway 200 exhibition train is a powerful symbol of our industry’s past, present and future – showcasing the pioneering innovation that has defined Britain’s railways for two centuries.

“At Alstom, we are proud to support this initiative and look forward to welcoming visitors to experience the ingenuity and opportunities that make rail such an exciting and dynamic sector to be part of.”

Sporting an eye-catching livery, Inspiration will comprise four reconfigured Mark 3 coaches, procured by Network Rail and originally built at Litchurch Lane between 1975 and 1988.

The mobile Railway 200 exhibition is designed to inspire schoolchildren and others to consider a career in rail, shining a spotlight on the wide range of roles available, and to create a more diverse workforce.

The carriages, which are currently being fitted out, are supported by a £250,000 grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.

The train will be operated by GB Railfreight, who will also be bringing additional rolling stock to The Greatest Gathering.

Emma Roberts, programme manager at Railway 200 – a cross-sector, government-backed campaign, said: “This special exhibition train will provide a unique visitor experience for hundreds of thousands of people across Britain, including many schoolchildren. Inspiration will excite, enlighten, entertain and encourage people to take a fresh view of the railway, as part of its bicentenary celebrations.

“It will also invite visitors to consider a career in rail by showcasing the extensive variety of roles available.

“We look forward to welcoming them onboard for an unforgettable and potentially life-changing experience.”

To find out more about Railway 200 visit https://railway200.co.uk/.