Launch date and first locations for Railway 200 exhibition train announced

The launch date and initial itinerary for the Railway 200 touring exhibition train have been announced.

Four Mk 3 carriages procured by Network Rail are being prepared for the train, named Inspiration, which will open to the public on June 27.

Over the following 12 months it’s expected to visit 60 locations across England, Scotland and Wales.

Network Rail has promised an eye-catching livery for the train which is designed to inspire schoolchildren and others to consider a career in the railway industry.

The initial itinerary is:

• June 27-July 6: Severn Valley Railway.
• July 8-10: Birmingham Moor Street.
• July 12-15: London Euston.
• July 18-19: London Waterloo.
• July 20-21: Margate.
• July 23-29: Bluebell Railway.
• August 1-3:  Alstom’s Litchurch Lane, Derby (The Greatest Gathering).
• August 7-10: Norwich.
• August 11-14: Lowestoft.
• August 16-17: Freightliner depot, Doncaster Railport.
• August 23-31: National Railway Museum.
• September 10-17: Darlington.
• September 20-October 1: Locomotion museum, Shildon.

Emma Roberts, Programme Manager for Railway 200, 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.”