Complimentary tickets now available for Cambridge, Colchester, Clacton-on-Sea, and Hertford East
The special exhibition train, which nationally in 2025 attracted over 40,000 visitors, will return to the Greater Anglia network in 2026, as part of Railway 200 – a national celebration of the 200th anniversary of the modern railway.
Four new stops have been confirmed as part of the special tour, and visitors can already secure their free place to visit the train, which is expected to draw thousands from across the region and beyond, via the Railway 200 website.
Cambridge station – Saturday 31 January & Sunday 1 February 2026
Colchester station – Tuesday 3 & Wednesday 4 February 2026
Clacton-on-Sea station – Thursday 5 & Friday 6 February 2026
Hertford East station – Saturday 7 & Sunday 8 February 2026
Inspiration 2
Railway 200 Inspiration Train [credit: Greater Anglia]
Complimentary tickets to visit the highly anticipated train are available to book now. Visitors, including families, are encouraged to secure their tickets in order to avoid disappointment.
The touring train, named Inspiration will comprise of four specifically designed carriages, and brings to life the past, present, and future of Britain’s railways.
Highlights include:
‘Railway Firsts’ – a look at historic moments that changed the course of rail travel.
‘Wonderlab on Wheels’ – an interactive coach designed to inspire the next generation of engineers and problem-solvers.
‘Your Railway Future’ – a career-focused zone, shining a light on the many careers available within the rail industry.
‘Partner Zone’ – a customised carriage led by industry partners from across the region.
No passengers will be carried on the train as it travels to its exhibition sites. Booked visits will begin at 10am and the last entry will be at 4pm. The train will close at 5pm. Visits are expected to last up to an hour. A virtual tour of the exhibition experience is planned for those who are unable to visit in person.
Martin Beable, Greater Anglia’s Managing Director, said:
“We are really looking forward to welcoming back Inspiration to East Anglia and continuing the celebrations linked to the 200th anniversary of the modern railway.
“Having the exhibition train visit Cambridge, Colchester, Clacton-on-Sea, and Hertford East stations in early 2026 will shine a spotlight on the past and present of the railway, while inspiring the next generation of railway talent.”
Emma Roberts, Programme Manager for Railway 200, said:
“Inspiration is a fun, free and fascinating way to learn about the past, present and future of rail. There’s something for everyone, whether you’re a rail enthusiast or simply curious about a British innovation that changed the world.
“We’re excited to bring Inspiration to East Anglia and we look forward to welcoming you aboard!”
