Celebrating 200 Years of the Railway
2025 marked an extraordinary milestone for the railway industry as we commemorated 200 years since the world’s first modern railway. This historic anniversary provided an exciting opportunity to reflect on the remarkable legacy of Britain’s railways and explore the innovation, heritage, and people that continue to shape its future.
What is Railway 200?
Railway 200 was a year-long programme of events, projects, and celebrations honouring the bicentenary of the world’s first passenger railway. In 1825, George Stephenson’s Stockton and Darlington Railway made history by carrying both passengers and freight powered by a steam locomotive, forever transforming transport and society. This pioneering achievement set the foundations for the global railway network we know today.
Railway 200 highlighted the evolution of railways from their humble beginnings to the modern, efficient transport systems of the 21st century. Chiltern Railways was proud to be part of this national celebration.
How Chiltern Railways celebrated
We were thrilled to participate in this nationwide celebration through a range of engaging events and collaborations across our network. We worked closely with local councils, heritage groups, and communities to bring Railway 200 to life.
You discovered, participated, and celebrated the remarkable journey of railways with us.
Learn more about Railway 200 by visiting railway200.co.uk.
Our activities
'Inspiration' train at Moor Street
We were pleased to be the second stop on the 'Inspiration' exhibition train's journey in July 2025, and the first stop on the national rail network. Thanks to everyone who booked and came along to join us.
Birthday events
We celebrated Warwick Parkway's 25th birthday and the 175th anniversary of the railway in Bicester on this vital anniversary for the railway. We invited stakeholders, media and local representatives to the celebratory events in October.
Station decor
Bunting, floor vinyls and banners were added in commemoration of Railway 200 at our stations. We hope you liked them!
Station decorations
Take a look at some of the decorations across our stations, including some collaborative work on a Railway 200 history timeline by a Warwickshire school that was installed at London Marylebone.
