Families and rail enthusiasts across the North West will have another chance to hop aboard the one-of-a-kind Railway 200 Inspiration train this January, as it returns for its second visit.
The interactive exhibition was a sell-out success when it last visited the region, arriving in Blackpool in October. This time, the train will visit four heritage and mainline locations across the North West, beginning at Ribble Steam Railway from 6 to 9 January, before continuing to Southport (10 to 13 January), Crewe (15 to 19 January), and the East Lancashire Railway, Bury (21 to 24 January).
Tickets are now available for a small charge in some locations, and free in others on the official Railway 200 website. The Inspiration train, which is part of the UK-wide Railway 200 campaign, is the only experience of its kind running on Britain’s mainline railway.
It has been touring the country since June 2025 to mark 200 years of the modern railway, celebrating its history, present day and future through hands-on, family-friendly exhibits.
Visitors can:
- step aboard four themed exhibition carriages, each exploring a different aspect of Britain’s rail story.
- try engaging engineering and STEM activities.
- learn about careers on the railway and how the industry supports the economy, climate and the communities we serve.
- explore the history of iconic trains and the technology shaping the next 200 years of rail.
Phil James, Network Rail North West route director said: “The Inspiration train is a fascinating way to learn about the past, present and future of rail.
“There’s something for everyone, whether you’re a rail enthusiast, student, or just curious about how this industry changed the world. We’re excited to have the Inspiration train back in the North West, and we look forward to welcoming you aboard!”
A director of the Ribble Steam Railway, Tim Owen, said: "Everyone at the railway is looking forward to welcoming The Railway 200 Inspiration train to Preston. Visitors will be able to access the Inspiration train by a modern accessible platform and will also be able to view the many exhibits that will be on show in the Railway's Museum.
“This will include Furness Railway locomotive No. 20, built in 1863, which is Britain's oldest working standard gauge steam locomotive. The tearoom and shop will be open and there is free car parking.at the site.
“There will be an opening event at 10am today (Tuesday 6 January) which will be attended by the Mayor of Preston. A piper will attend to celebrate the occasion."
Mike Kelly, chair of the East Lancashire Railway, said: “We are delighted to welcome Inspiration, celebrating 200 years of history, to our railway as part of a major national commemorative event on the ELR.
“The visit of Inspiration offers families and enthusiasts a unique opportunity to journey back to the dawn of the railways in 1825 and explore the key innovations that shaped rail travel, which is all brought to life through images, models, hands on exhibits and storyboards.” The exhibition will run throughout the 21-24 January at the East Lancashire Railway, with more details available.
