URGENT UPDATE: A unique and free exhibition train, known as Inspiration, is set to arrive at Southport railway station from January 10 to January 13, 2026. This exciting event marks a major milestone in the celebration of 200 years of the modern railway and promises to be a captivating experience for families and railway enthusiasts alike.
Described as “fun, free, and fascinating,” Inspiration showcases how railways have transformed the UK and the world. Co-curated with the National Railway Museum, the exhibition features hands-on engineering challenges and highlights lesser-known careers within the railway sector. This year-long tour has already attracted over 40,000 visitors on its journey through 60 stops across Britain, receiving rave reviews from attendees.
One recent visitor stated, “I loved that it was interactive. I visited with people from age 18 to 85 and there was something for everyone.” Another attendee shared, “The displays and history of the railways to the interactive stuff was all brilliant in my eyes; even my five-year-old daughter absolutely loved it.”
The next stops on the tour were just announced earlier this week, with Southport being a highlight. This exhibition is part of the national campaign Railway 200, which celebrates the legacy of railways in the UK, having revolutionized travel and boosted economies worldwide. Events throughout the year have included a replica journey of Locomotion No. 1 that drew a crowd of 100,000, as well as commemorative poems, coins, and stamps.
Neil Grabham, Managing Director at Merseyrail, expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming event: “We’re delighted to welcome the Railway 200 exhibition train to Southport. This event is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the heritage and future of rail, reminding us of the vital role railways play in connecting people and communities every day.”
Emma Roberts, Programme Manager for Railway 200, emphasized the exhibition’s accessibility: “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.”
Rail Minister Lord Peter Hendy added, “I’m proud to celebrate our heritage as the birthplace of the modern railway. Our railway network is the backbone of our economy, driving growth, jobs, and homes. This train inspires the next generation of engineers, drivers, conductors, and technicians while showcasing what the railway delivers today.”
As excitement builds for the arrival of Inspiration in Southport, families and individuals are encouraged to plan their visit to this one-of-a-kind exhibition. Don’t miss this chance to engage with the rich history of rail travel and discover its future!
For more information about the exhibition and to prepare for your visit, check out the official Railway 200 website. Share this news and spread the word about this free, interactive experience coming to Southport!
