Railway 200: Scotland Welcomes ‘Inspiration’ Train
A special exhibition train to celebrate 200 years of the railway arrived in Glasgow Central Station on Saturday, marking the Scottish stage of the nationwide tour.

A special exhibition train to celebrate 200 years of the railway arrived in Glasgow Central Station on Saturday, marking the Scottish stage of the nationwide tour.
The train has four themed carriages that highlight railway history and engineering and showcase railway careers.
The four carriages are:
- Railway Firsts: celebrating landmark moments in railway history
- Wonderlab on Wheels: an interactive space to explore railway engineering
- Your Railway Future: presenting railway careers that are not so well known to encourage uptake in a new generation
- Partnership Zone: a journey through time highlighting important milestones in Scotland’s railway
This exhibition train is part of Railway 200, inspired by the opening of the Stockton and Darlington Railway in 1825.
‘Inspiration’ will visit Bo’ness and Kinneil Railway today and tomorrow, then make its way to Strathspey Railway for 16 & 17 October; Aberdeen Station for 19 & 20 October; and Edinburgh Waverley Station for 22 & 23 October.
Liam Sumpter, Managing Director of Network Rail Scotland, said:
Rail has played a defining role in Scotland’s story over the past 200 years. It powered the industrial revolution, supported the country through wartime, and helped shape the towns, cities and industries we know today.
The arrival of the Inspiration train is a moment to reflect on that legacy, as well as recognise the railway’s continued contribution. It showcases how rail connects people and places, supports jobs and communities, and evolves to remain a vital part of everyday life.
The exhibition train is a great chance to see just how far the railway’s come and to get excited about where it’s headed next. I’d encourage everyone to visit when it stops near you.
It is advised that visitors book ahead if they wish to see Inspiration.