Groups still have the chance to go onboard Inspiration, a special exhibition train which is touring the UK to mark 200 years of the modern railway.
Part of the Railway 200 programme, inspired by the opening of the Stockton and Darlington Railway in 1825, the train features themed carriages and hands-on activities.
Visitors can explore the carriages and learn about railway history, future innovation and local stories. Wonderlab on Wheels offers activities exploring the science and engineering of the railways.
At its stops, railway staff will be on hand to answer questions, including providing more information about the history of train travel in Britain and what’s in store for the future.
Railway 200 programme manager, Emma Roberts, said: “Inspiration is a fun, free and fascinating way to learn about the past, present and future of rail. There’s something for everyone, whether you’re a rail enthusiast or simply curious about a British innovation that changed the world.”
The exhibition train will stop at London Paddington, Southampton Central and London Victoria, ahead of a Christmas break, before continuing its journey throughout the first six months of 2026.
What’s next on the timetable
Featuring a custom livery, Inspiration offers locals and visitors the chance to learn more about the history of the railway in Britain. The exhibition train will continue its journey until summer 2026, with stops currently scheduled until March.
- 8th - 13th December: London Paddington station
- 14th - 16th December: Southampton Central station
- 18th – 20th December: London Victoria station
- 6th - 9th January: Ribble Steam Railway
- 10th - 13th January: Southport station
- 15th - 19th January: Crewe station
- 21st - 24th January: The East Lancashire Railway
- 26th January - 30th January: Upminster station
- 31st January - 1st February: Cambridge station
- 3rd - 4th February: Colchester station
- 5th - 6th February: Clacton station
- 7th - 8th February: Hertford East station
- 16th - 18th February: Swanage Railway
- 19th - 20th February: The Watercress Line
- 21st - 23rd February: Salisbury station
- 25th - 26th February: Kingston station
- 27th - 28th February: Worthing station
- 9th - 11th March: Tattenham Corner station
- 12th - 15th March: Hastings station
Further locations to be announced.
Group visits
The train is free to enter and groups of up to 30 are welcome to visit the exhibition subject to availability. Private and exclusive sessions are unavailable. Normal entry charges to heritage railways and private sites where the train is located will apply.
For more information about Inspiration and Railway 200, visit railway200.co.uk/inspiration.
