All aboard as inspiration train celebrates 200 years of UK rail at Crewe

Avanti West Coast welcomed thousands of visitors onboard the touring exhibition train, Inspiration, during a five-day stop at Crewe station, celebrating 200 years of the UK’s railways. Part of the year-long Railway 200 programme running from 2025 to June 2026, the train provided a mobile museum experience highlighting the past, present and future of rail travel.

The free, family-friendly attraction attracted nearly 3,000 visitors, including school groups from Crewe Engineering and Design UTC and Underwood West Academy. The visits were part of Avanti West Coast’s Feel Good Futures initiative, which educates young people about the railway and careers within the sector. Visitors could explore a series of interactive exhibitions across multiple carriages, showcasing railway innovations, heritage and career opportunities.

Local organisations, including Alstom and Balfour Beatty, were also present to highlight Crewe’s rich railway heritage. Enthusiasts including record producer Pete Waterman and the Railnuts model railway group displayed the latest addition to their miniature railway – a tiny replica of Inspiration.

Taryn Banks, Station Manager at Crewe, said the stop “showed just how important the railway is to the town” and praised the enthusiasm of people of all ages. Emma Roberts, Programme Manager for Railway 200, noted that Crewe’s status as one of the world’s first railway towns made it a key stop on the tour. She thanked volunteers, staff, Avanti West Coast, and local partners for supporting the visit.

Connor Naismith, MP for Crewe and Nantwich, emphasised the role of rail in supporting livelihoods today and encouraged people to engage with the country’s rail heritage. Steven Fergusson, Deputy Principal at Crewe UTC, added that visits like these provide students with insight into diverse careers available in the rail sector, connecting education with real-world opportunities.

Following its Crewe stop, Inspiration will continue its journey to East Lancashire Railway in Bury from 21 to 24 January. The train’s ongoing tour underscores the importance of railways in the UK’s shared history and sustainable future, inspiring the next generation to engage with the sector and ensuring rail continues to thrive for years to come.