A travelling train exhibition is set to visit Lancashire and Greater Manchester.
The Railway 200 Inspiration Train, an interactive experience marking 200 years of modern railways, will arrive at the Ribble Steam Railway museum in Preston from January 6 to 9.
It will then journey to Southport from January 10 to 13 before continuing to other destinations across the North West.
The exhibition will then move to Crewe from January 15 to 19, followed by the East Lancashire Railway in Bury from January 21 to 24.
Phil James, North West route director at Network Rail, said: “The Inspiration Train is a fascinating way to learn about the past, present and future of rail.
“There’s something for everyone, whether you’re a rail enthusiast, student, or just curious about how this industry changed the world.
“We’re excited to have the Inspiration Train back in the North West, and we look forward to welcoming you aboard.”
The train features interactive exhibits and STEM activities to inspire young people about a career in rail (Image: Network Rail)
The Inspiration Train offers STEM activities, hands-on exhibits and four themed carriages exploring different parts of Britain’s railway story.
Visitors will learn about railway careers, historical innovations and how the industry supports the economy, climate and communities.
Mike Kelly, chairman of the East Lancashire Railway, said: “We are delighted to welcome Inspiration, celebrating 200 years of history, to our railway as part of a major national commemorative event on the ELR.
“The visit of Inspiration offers families and enthusiasts a unique opportunity to journey back to the dawn of the railways in 1825 and explore the key innovations that shaped rail travel, which is all brought to life through images, models, hands-on exhibits and storyboards.”
The North West leg of the Inspiration Train tour follows a sold-out stop in Blackpool in October.
The exhibition previously sold out on its stop in Blackpool in October (Image: Network Rail)
Tim Owen, director of Ribble Steam Railway, said: “Everyone at the railway is looking forward to welcoming The Railway 200 Inspiration train to Preston.
“Visitors will be able to access the Inspiration train by a modern accessible platform and will also be able to view the many exhibits that will be on show in the railway’s museum.
“This will include Furness Railway locomotive No. 20, built in 1863, which is Britain’s oldest working standard gauge steam locomotive.”
There will be an opening event on Tuesday, January 6 in Preston, which will be attended by the Mayor of Preston.
Tickets are available online for a small charge in some locations and free in others.
