Get ready for a landmark year as the National Railway Museum celebrates 50 years of inspiring generations! 2025 marks a double anniversary—the museum’s golden jubilee and the 200th anniversary of the modern railway. With a grand reopening, exciting exhibitions, and special events, this is a year no railway enthusiast will want to miss.
A Grand Reopening: Station Hall Returns
After an extensive £10.5 million refurbishment, the historic Station Hall reopens in September—just in time for the museum’s 50th birthday weekend (27–28 September). Once a bustling goods station, it now boasts stunning new displays, refreshed interiors, and the return of timeless favourites.
Visitors will enjoy exclusive behind-the-scenes access to areas never seen before. Save the date for this unforgettable birthday weekend!
A Year of Railway Firsts & Iconic Exhibitions
The celebrations don’t stop there—2025 is packed with must-see events:
🔹 York Ice Trail (1–2 Feb) – Spot the “50 Years of Railway Legends” ice sculpture in York city centre.
🔹 Railway Firsts (From 8 Feb) – A brand-new exhibition uncovering the innovations that shaped the railway industry.
🔹 Young Railway Photographer of the Year (June–Dec) – A showcase of incredible railway photography from the next generation.
🔹 Flying Scotsman Returns – Witness the legendary locomotive in motion and on display throughout the year.
🔹 Ultrasonic at Wonderlab – A new hands-on science show exploring the wonders of railway engineering.
Railway 200: A Nationwide Celebration
The museum is also a key partner in Railway 200, celebrating 200 years since the Stockton and Darlington Line carried the world’s first fare-paying passengers in 1825. This milestone will be marked with nationwide events, bringing railway history to life.
Don’t Miss a Moment!
With so much to explore, sign up for the National Railway Museum’s ‘What’s On’ newsletter and follow along on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates.
🚂 Step into the past, experience the present, and celebrate the future of the railways!
