Pendolino, 390119 ‘Progress’, on show at The Greatest Gathering event

Avanti West Coast’s Pride train joins modern and historic trains at host Alstom’s Litchurch Lane Works in Derby

The sold-out event part was part of this year’s Railway 200 celebrations

Avanti West Coast’s Pride Pendolino joins a line-up of modern and historic trains at the world’s largest-ever gathering of trains.

The train, named Progress, is on display at Alstom’s sold-out Greatest Gathering alongside over 70 trains including Locomotion 1 – the first ever train to carry passengers; the infamous Flying Scotsman steam locomotive; and the Class 43 diesel locomotive which pioneered modern intercity rail travel in the UK.

The event is taking place at the train manufacturer and maintainer’s Litchurch Lane Works in Derby as part of this year’s Railway 200 celebrations.

Progress, which was unveiled in 2020, was the first in the UK to be fully livery wrapped in the progressive pride flag.

A crowd of enthusiasts witnessed the Pendolino train (set number 390119) hauled by a Class 57 locomotive onto the site from Crewe to complete the line-up for the weekend and kick off celebrations. Arranged as a special charter service, this was the first time that a Pendolino had travelled to Derby with passengers onboard.

Andy Mellors, Managing Director at Avanti West Coast said: “We were delighted to support The Greatest Gathering with our iconic Pride Pendolino, Progress.

“The weekend, as part of Railway 200, is all about celebrating the rich history of rail in this country, recognising the incredible transformation of rolling stock over two centuries and promoting career opportunities in the rail industry for the next generation.

“Well done to Alstom and all other supporting industry partners on this fantastic event and a great showcase for rail in this country.”

ENDS

Almost 40,000 railfans from around the globe are at Alstom’s Derby Litchurch Lane Works this weekend for the world’s largest-ever gathering of historic and modern trains – The Greatest Gathering.

Alstom’s three-day sold-out charity extravaganza, which officially started on Friday, forms part of the wider festivities for Railway 200, a year-long celebration marking the opening of the Stockton and Darlington Railway (S&DR) on 27 September 1825 – and a journey that gave birth to the modern railway.

Speaking at a special opening event on Thursday night, Rob Whyte, Managing Director UK and Ireland at Alstom, said: “Alstom’s roots in the UK go right back to 1825, when Locomotion No. 1 made its historic journey on the Stockton and Darlington Railway. Through successive mergers the locomotive’s builder – Robert Stephenson and Company – became part of Alstom in 1989 and we are beyond proud to carry that legacy of ingenuity forward.”

He added: “The Greatest Gathering is a once-in-a-generation celebration of Britain’s railway heritage and future, and it simply wouldn’t have been possible without the extraordinary support of so many. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to every Alstom colleague, organisation, rail operator and exhibitor who has helped bring our vision spectacularly to life. Together, we’ve created the world’s largest gathering of historic and modern railway vehicles, and a truly unforgettable experience for tens of thousands of visitors, alongside those watching online at home.”

During this weekend, Britain’s biggest and oldest remaining train factory will be home to more than 140 rolling stock exhibits from the past, present and future of the railways, with the site itself opening to the public for the first time in almost 50 years.

Highlights across the weekend will include:

A cavalcade of steam locomotives: The 200-year-old Locomotion No. 1 will be joined by the UK’s oldest operating standard gauge engine, Furness Railway No. 20, Derby-built Midland Railway 1000 Class No. 1000 and the world-famous Flying Scotsman. Locomotion No. 1 will appear beside a Derby-built Alstom Class 720 Aventra train, placing one of the world’s oldest locomotives next to one of the UK’s newest at The Greatest Gathering

A lineup of high-speed trains including Alstom-built Class 390 Pendolino Progress – the UK’s first fully wrapped Pride train – which will appear alongside Eurostar power car 3999 and Derby-designed Class 43 High Speed Trains (HSTs)

A host of trains debuting new names and liveries, including two Class 50 locomotives that will showcase striking wraps designed especially for The Greatest Gathering in partnership with Aura Brand Solutions

Visitors will get the opportunity to ride on steam, diesel and electric-hauled trains, including a Class 345 Derby-built Alstom Aventra train along Litchurch Lane’s 1.4 km-long test track. Meanwhile, Prince, the world’s oldest operating narrow-gauge locomotive from 1863, will be carrying passengers throughout the jamboree

Every day a packed timetable of talks and performances from famous faces and industry insiders will be taking place in the specially-constructed Mobility Theatre. The space will also host the UK premiere of feature-length documentary An Unlikely Fandom: The Impact of Thomas the Tank Engine on Saturday 2 August, which will be followed by a Q&A with its US-based filmmakers

At the heart of The Greatest Gathering, inside one of Litchurch Lane’s vast workshops, lies a vibrant and future-focused family-friendly zone: the STEM Hub. Designed to ignite curiosity and ambition among visitors, this interactive space showcases the power of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) in shaping the future of rail and sustainable mobility

Another workshop on site hosts the Model Railway Village in partnership with Key Model World. From legendary music producer – and renowned railway modeller – Pete Waterman’s outstanding Making Tracks 3 in OO-gauge, to the biggest brands in model manufacturing, high quality layouts and model makers

Curated in partnership with the National Railway Museum, the Railway 200 exhibition train, Inspiration, will showcase rail’s impact over the last two centuries inside a series of redesigned Mark 3 carriages that were originally built at Derby Litchurch Lane Works

Finally, fairground attractions, family entertainment, street food and live music will also add to the festival feel

Lord Hendy, UK Rail Minister, said: “In this year of Railway 200 celebrations many imaginative and innovative events are being staged to mark this key anniversary in the history of railways. The Greatest Gathering does so on a huge scale, and promises to enter the history books as the largest exhibition of railway equipment ever staged in the UK.

“The whole rail industry has come together to back the vision of the organising team to create something truly special, which is wonderful to see as we move forward into the new future with the creation of Great British Railways.

“I very much hope the thousands of you who were fortunate enough to secure tickets enjoy the display, which aims to really highlight the railway of the past, present and future, and hopefully inspires some of the diverse younger generations to become the railway professionals of the future.”

Covering 90 acres, Derby Litchurch Lane Works is one of the world’s largest rolling stock factories, and the only UK facility that designs, engineers, builds and tests trains for domestic and export markets. The factory was opened by the Midland Railway in 1876 and the city of Derby has been building trains continually since 1839. In 2022, Derby was chosen by the Government as the home of Great British Railways following a vote by the public between contender cities.

Her Excellency Madame Hélène Duchêne, French Ambassador to the UK, said: “I would like to warmly congratulate the team at Alstom as they celebrate 200 years of railway history in Derby, and look forward to a bright future of designing and building the next generation of trains, and supporting the decarbonisation of transport for decades to come. Alstom Derby’s key contribution to delivering major transport projects across the UK shows how bilateral investment can be a driver for growth, innovation and improved connections between people.

“In this regard, Alstom’s manufacturing presence in the UK echoes the British and French Governments’ shared commitment to supporting rail travel, both domestically and through the Channel Tunnel. Following the UK-France Summit on 10 July, our two countries committed to deepening their cooperation to foster the growth of Cross-Channel rail traffic, including by working to reduce barriers for potential new market entrants.”

All profits from The Greatest Gathering will be split between Railway 200’s five chosen charities – Alzheimer’s Research UK, Railway Benefit Fund, Railway Children, Railway Mission and Transport Benevolent Fund CIO – and railway heritage partners.

Among those attending the preview night on Thursday was Darren Caplan, Chief Executive at the Railway Industry Association, who said: “It’s great to be at The Greatest Gathering at Alstom’s Litchurch Lane plant in Derby, celebrating 200 years of this wonderful UK railway industry with so many rail colleagues.

“What’s clear from this event, which so many thousands of enthusiasts will be attending over several days, is the genuine passion so many have for rail in all its aspects. The Greatest Gathering also showcases the huge role the rail supply sector plays in developing and delivering world-class track and train, and all the various related disciplines.

“It really is fantastic to see so many rail supplier companies – large and small, from all parts of the UK, including many RIA members – involved with The Greatest Gathering. We wish the event well, and look forward to an equally exciting future and the next 200 years.”

A full list of exhibits on display at Alstom presents The Greatest Gathering can be found on the event’s official website: www.alstom.com/greatest-gathering

Alstom Hosts The Greatest Gathering At Derby Litchurch Lane Works To Celebrate Two Centuries Of Rail Heritage

Alstom’s Derby Litchurch Lane Works will become the epicentre of rail history as it hosts The Greatest Gathering, the largest railway festival in the world, from August 1 to August 3, 2025. This three-day event is part of the Railway 200 celebrations to mark the 200th anniversary of the opening of the Stockton and Darlington Railway in 1825. the event will highlight the birthplace of modern railway. More than 140 exhibits from the past and the present of rail travel will be on display. The event will provide an unparalleled experience for rail enthusiasts, families and visitors from allover the world.

Alstom, a global leader in smart and sustainable transport, has a strong connection to Britain’s rail legacy, with roots back to 1825. It was the time when Robert Stephenson and Company, the creator of the iconic Locomotion No. 1, became part of Alstom with mergers. The event not only showcases the remarkable history of rail travel but also highlights the future of transportation, focusing Alstom’s ongoing role in shaping rail innovation.

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A Historic Venue with a Rich Legacy

Derby Litchurch Lane Works, which has been operational since 1876, is one of the largest and most important rolling stock factories in the world. It is the only UK facility that designs, engineers, builds, and tests trains for both domestic and export markets. The site has produced several iconic trains, including the Alstom-built Electrostar and the high-speed Aventra, used extensively across the UK.

This year, Derby was also named the home of Great British Railways, further cementing its pivotal role in the nation’s rail industry. The Greatest Gathering will take place at this historic location, which has remained a vital part of the British railway infrastructure for over 150 years. Visitors will have a rare opportunity to explore this massive facility, which has been closed to the public for almost 50 years, adding an extra layer of excitement to the event.

Celebrating 200 Years of the Railway

The Greatest Gathering commemorates the two-century-long journey that began with the Stockton and Darlington Railway, the world’s first public railway to use steam locomotives for passenger and freight transport. Locomotion No. 1, the first locomotive to travel on this historic line, will be one of the main attractions at the event. This locomotive, along with other iconic steam engines, will be on display, allowing visitors to experience the awe-inspiring machines that helped shape the railway industry.

Rob Whyte, Managing Director of Alstom UK and Ireland, expressed the company’s pride in continuing the legacy of innovation that began with Locomotion No. 1, stated that The Greatest Gathering is a once-in-a-generation celebration of Britain’s railway heritage and future. He also said that it simply wouldn’t have been possible without the extraordinary support of so many colleagues, rail operators, and exhibitors who have brought this vision to life.

Key Highlights of The Greatest Gathering

The Greatest Gathering promises to be an unforgettable experience, offering something for rail fans of all ages. Some of the major highlights include:

Steam Locomotives : In addition to Locomotion No. 1, visitors will see other famous locomotives such as the Flying Scotsman, Furness Railway No. 20, and Midland Railway 1000 Class No. 1000. These historic steam engines will be on display alongside modern machines, symbolizing the evolution of rail transport.

: In addition to Locomotion No. 1, visitors will see other famous locomotives such as the Flying Scotsman, Furness Railway No. 20, and Midland Railway 1000 Class No. 1000. These historic steam engines will be on display alongside modern machines, symbolizing the evolution of rail transport. High-Speed Trains : The festival will also feature cutting-edge high-speed trains, including the Alstom-built Class 390 Pendolino, Eurostar power car 3999, and the Derby-designed Class 43 High-Speed Trains (HSTs). These trains showcase the advances in rail technology and the continued importance of speed and efficiency in modern rail systems.

: The festival will also feature cutting-edge high-speed trains, including the Alstom-built Class 390 Pendolino, Eurostar power car 3999, and the Derby-designed Class 43 High-Speed Trains (HSTs). These trains showcase the advances in rail technology and the continued importance of speed and efficiency in modern rail systems. New Names and Livery : Two Class 50 locomotives will debut striking wraps designed for the event, highlighting the creativity and artistry involved in railway branding.

: Two Class 50 locomotives will debut striking wraps designed for the event, highlighting the creativity and artistry involved in railway branding. Interactive Experiences : Families and young visitors will be able to engage with the STEM Hub, a dedicated space designed to ignite curiosity about science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The area will offer hands-on activities, including demonstrations of how these disciplines contribute to the future of rail and sustainable mobility.

: Families and young visitors will be able to engage with the STEM Hub, a dedicated space designed to ignite curiosity about science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The area will offer hands-on activities, including demonstrations of how these disciplines contribute to the future of rail and sustainable mobility. Model Railway Village : Partnering with Key Model World, the event will feature impressive model layouts, including Pete Waterman’s “Making Tracks 3” in OO-gauge, as well as displays from leading model manufacturers.

: Partnering with Key Model World, the event will feature impressive model layouts, including Pete Waterman’s “Making Tracks 3” in OO-gauge, as well as displays from leading model manufacturers. Railway 200 Exhibition Train : The Inspiration train, curated in collaboration with the National Railway Museum, will showcase the history and impact of railways over the last two centuries, giving visitors a deeper understanding of the transformative role of rail in society.

: The Inspiration train, curated in collaboration with the National Railway Museum, will showcase the history and impact of railways over the last two centuries, giving visitors a deeper understanding of the transformative role of rail in society. Entertainment and Attractions: The event will also feature fairground rides, live music, street food, and performances from notable railway experts. Visitors will have the chance to enjoy a full festival atmosphere while exploring the rich history and future of rail.

Supporting Charitable Causes

All profits from The Greatest Gathering will be donated to five chosen charities: Alzheimer’s Research UK, Railway Benefit Fund, Railway Children, Railway Mission, and Transport Benevolent Fund CIO. Additionally, the event will support railway heritage organizations, ensuring the preservation of the UK’s rail history for future generations. This charitable aspect of the event highlights Alstom’s commitment to giving back to the community and supporting those in need.

Looking to the Future

As part of the Railway 200 celebrations, The Greatest Gathering is not only about remembering the past but also about inspiring the next generation of railway professionals. UK Rail Minister Lord Peter Hendy noted that the whole rail industry has come together to back this vision, and he hoped it would inspire young people to pursue careers in the railway sector.

The event serves as a reminder of the ongoing importance of rail transport and innovation in shaping the future of sustainable mobility. The collaboration between Alstom, rail operators, and heritage organizations highlights the strength of the UK’s rail industry and its ability to adapt to the challenges of the future.

Conclusion

The Greatest Gathering promises to be an effective event in the UK’s railway history. As the world’s largest gathering of both historic and modern trains, it offers visitors a once-in-a-lifetime chance to explore the evolution of rail transport. people will experience it in one of the most iconic and historic railway factories in the world. Whether you’re a dedicated rail follower, a family looking for an educational tour, or someone interested in the future of transportation, The Greatest Gathering is a great event you won’t want to miss.

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The Greatest Gathering of Trains: Celebrating Two Hundred Years of Rail Travel and Boosting UK Tourism

This year, the UK witnessed a monumental event in the world of rail travel, as it celebrated 200 years of railway history at The Greatest Gathering of Trains. Hosted at Derby’s iconic Litchurch Lane Works, this remarkable event showcased over 140 vehicles, from historical slate-hauling steam engines to high-speed electric trains reaching speeds of 300 kilometers per hour. The gathering marked not just the technological evolution of trains, but also the deep cultural and historical significance of rail travel to the United Kingdom. As one of the largest railway events in recent UK history, it has had a profound impact on tourism, drawing visitors from across the globe and further cementing the UK’s role as a key destination for rail enthusiasts.

The Greatest Gathering isn’t just a celebration of trains but a significant event that brings together the rich heritage of British rail with modern-day advancements in transportation. Derby’s Litchurch Lane Works, where British passenger trains are still built today, was the perfect venue to showcase this historical milestone. The event provided an opportunity to look back at 200 years of development while offering a glimpse into the future of rail travel.

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Rail Travel in the UK: A Rich History and Cultural Icon

The UK’s railway system is one of the oldest and most expansive in the world. The first passenger railway line in the UK was opened in 1825, connecting Stockton and Darlington. This laid the foundation for the vast railway network that would become a critical part of Britain’s industrial revolution. Trains played a key role in shaping the social, cultural, and economic landscape of the country, helping to connect distant regions, transport goods, and encourage the spread of ideas.

From the early steam locomotives to the modern-day high-speed trains, the UK’s railway system has been at the forefront of technological innovation. The Greatest Gathering at Derby celebrated the evolution of rail travel, highlighting milestones in engineering, design, and sustainability. These developments have not only transformed transportation but also made rail travel an enduring part of British identity.

For many years, the UK has also been a top destination for rail tourism, with travelers flocking to experience scenic routes like the West Highland Line, the Settle-Carlisle Line, and even the Eurostar connecting London to Paris and Brussels. The country’s scenic landscapes, historic stations, and iconic trains continue to attract rail enthusiasts and general travelers alike.

The Greatest Gathering: An Event of National and International Significance

The Greatest Gathering of Trains held at Derby’s Litchurch Lane Works was not just a static exhibition of trains. It was a dynamic celebration of rail history, with visitors able to see, touch, and experience the development of rail travel over the centuries. The event brought together 140 unique trains, including historic steam engines, modern diesel engines, and cutting-edge electric trains. For many, it was a rare opportunity to witness the entire spectrum of railway technology in one place.

This event was particularly impactful for railway enthusiasts, offering them a chance to see rare and historically significant trains up close. Many of these vehicles were not normally on display to the public, making this gathering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for collectors, historians, and train lovers. Additionally, the event highlighted the ongoing role of Derby’s Litchurch Lane Works, where the latest models of British passenger trains are still being built, showcasing the city’s continued importance in the development of rail technology.

Beyond the technical aspects of the event, it also served as a tourism magnet, attracting thousands of visitors to Derby and the surrounding regions. The local economy saw significant benefits from the influx of tourists, with many visitors spending money on accommodations, food, and local attractions. The Greatest Gathering was not just a celebration of trains—it was a testament to how rail travel has played a crucial role in shaping both the economy and the tourism landscape in the UK.

Tourism Impact: Revitalizing Derby and the UK’s Rail Heritage

The Greatest Gathering at Derby had a marked impact on tourism in the region. Derby, known for its rich industrial heritage, saw an influx of visitors not just from across the UK but also from international locations. The event demonstrated how railway tourism can rejuvenate local economies, provide jobs, and encourage investment in local infrastructure.

The event also served as a platform for local businesses. Restaurants, hotels, and shops benefited from the increased foot traffic brought in by tourists attending the event. For many, the exhibition was an opportunity to explore Derby, a city that, despite its rich history in the rail industry, is often overshadowed by larger, more well-known destinations. By drawing attention to Derby’s heritage and role in railway innovation, the Greatest Gathering created new opportunities for local businesses and increased the visibility of the city as a tourist destination.

Railway tourism has also contributed to the broader growth of heritage tourism in the UK. Many visitors came not only to see the trains on display but to explore the rich railway history embedded in the country’s cities, stations, and landscapes. Heritage railway tours, such as the Severn Valley Railway and the Bluebell Railway, are increasingly popular among tourists seeking to experience the nostalgia of steam travel while enjoying the scenic British countryside.

The Future of Railway Tourism: Sustainable and Scenic Travel

The celebration of 200 years of rail travel is also an opportunity to consider the future of the railway industry and its role in sustainable tourism. Rail travel, particularly electric trains, offers a more environmentally friendly alternative to air travel and cars, making it an increasingly attractive option for eco-conscious travelers. As climate change becomes an ever-more pressing concern, railways are being viewed as a sustainable solution to long-distance travel, with many countries investing in high-speed trains and expanding their railway networks.

The UK has already made significant strides in modernizing its rail infrastructure, with projects like HS2, a high-speed rail line that will connect London to the Midlands and the North of England, in development. These innovations have the potential to transform travel in the UK, making rail tourism an even more viable and attractive option for future generations of tourists.

With a renewed focus on sustainability and eco-friendly travel, the rail industry is set to become an integral part of future tourism strategies. The success of The Greatest Gathering of Trains at Derby demonstrates the continued interest in rail travel and highlights the potential of railway heritage tourism to drive both cultural appreciation and economic growth.

The Role of Events in Promoting Rail Tourism

The Greatest Gathering at Derby not only celebrated the past but also helped to shape the future of tourism in the UK. Events like this can serve as key drivers for tourism development, fostering a deeper connection to the country’s history while promoting cultural tourism. The event’s success illustrates the growing demand for more interactive and immersive cultural experiences, where tourists can engage directly with the history of the destination.

As rail travel continues to play a significant role in global transportation, exhibitions like the Greatest Gathering offer an opportunity for people to connect with the rich history of trains and their cultural significance. The increased popularity of railway-themed experiences is a testament to the timeless appeal of trains and their impact on society.

Conclusion: A New Chapter for Rail Tourism

The Greatest Gathering of Trains at Derby is an event that goes beyond just a celebration of trains. It is a profound statement about the role of rail travel in shaping not only the UK’s history but also its future. Through this celebration, visitors were able to witness the evolution of rail technology, appreciate the beauty of historic trains, and discover the incredible cultural heritage tied to the rail industry.

The event marked a significant moment in both railway tourism and cultural tourism in the UK. It demonstrated the power of heritage tourism to revive local economies and attract visitors to lesser-known areas. As the world moves toward more sustainable modes of transportation, the rail industry’s ability to offer eco-friendly travel options is likely to become an even more significant draw for tourists.

In the years ahead, it’s likely that railway tourism will continue to grow, offering visitors new opportunities to explore the world by train, with the Greatest Gathering of Trains serving as a model for future rail celebrations and exhibitions. The event not only highlighted the importance of rail travel but also ensured that the legacy of British trains remains an essential part of the nation’s tourism story.

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An event marking the 200th anniversary of the world’s first passenger train service is set to attract thousands of enthusiasts into Derby.

The Greatest Gathering is being hosted by train manufacturer Alstom for three days from Friday.

It has been billed by the organisers as “the world’s largest-ever collection of historic and modern rolling stock”.

The Flying Scotsman will be among the famous locomotives making an appearance, while noted train fan and music producer Pete Waterman will bring his model railway.