Locomotion No. 1, the world’s oldest steam locomotive, will take centre stage at The Greatest Gathering festival in Derby as part of the Railway 200 celebrations next summer. From 1 to 3 August 2025, this legendary engine—built by Robert Stephenson and Company and famed for its run on the Stockton and Darlington Railway—will return to Alstom’s historic Litchurch Lane Works to mark two centuries of modern railway travel in Britain. This landmark anniversary shines a spotlight on the enduring appeal of heritage railways, with Locomotion No. 1 symbolising the very dawn of steam-powered journeys.
Stepping into the yard at Litchurch Lane Works, visitors will be greeted by gleaming carriages and the rhythmic hiss of steam. The Greatest Gathering festival has been designed to offer something for everyone: from seasoned rail enthusiasts to families eager to share a slice of living history. Against the backdrop of imposing engine sheds and Victorian workshops, Locomotion No. 1 will sit proudly alongside other iconic machines from the UK National Collection. It is a rare opportunity to see the engine that helped launch a transport revolution, surrounded by its faithful descendants and kindred spirits.
What makes this celebration so special is its deep connection to Britain’s railway heritage. Heritage lines have long captured the public imagination, offering gentle rides through scenic countryside and revealing stories of industrial prowess. Steam engines, with their polished brass fittings and chuffing pistons, evoke memories of a bygone era when railways were the arteries of industry and adventure. For many families, these preserved lines are a first introduction to history brought to life—an experience that bridges the gap between past and present.
Beyond Derby, the Railway 200 year of events will be felt across the country. At the Stephenson Steam Railway in North Tyneside, youngsters can explore a miniature railway and playground before joining a heritage train for a ride along an old industrial route. Down in Somerset, the Flying Scotsman continues to thrill passengers on the West Somerset Railway, retracing winding tracks and pastoral views that have remained largely unchanged for a century. Each destination promises its own unique blend of nostalgia and discovery, reminding us of the vital role railways played in shaping our towns and communities.
Educational activities will also feature heavily throughout the celebrations. Workshops for all ages will explain how steam engines work, from the boiler that generates steam to the wheels that drive a locomotive forward. Interactive displays will reveal the craftsmanship involved in building and maintaining these giants of iron and steel. By seeing engineers at work—dressed in striped overalls and skillfully polishing axle boxes—visitors gain a fresh appreciation for the dedication that has kept steam heritage alive. Such hands-on experiences help to pass on this special legacy to the next generation, ensuring that the story of steam travel remains vibrant and relevant.
Food stalls and period dress add another layer of charm to the festival atmosphere. Imagine tucking into hearty fare while seated on a wooden bench beside a waiting platform, or marvelling at a parade of vintage carriages rolling by to the blast of a station whistle. The blend of aromas, sounds and sights transports attendees back to an age when rail travel was not just a means of moving freight and passengers, but an event in its own right. These moments of sensory delight reinforce why heritage railway events continue to draw crowds year after year.
While the focus of Railway 200 remains firmly on celebration, it also emphasises the ongoing importance of preserving these historic lines. Behind every operational steam engine stands a team of volunteers, historians and engineers who dedicate countless hours to restoration work. Their efforts ensure that future generations can step aboard a steaming locomotive, feel the tremor beneath the floorboards and witness firsthand the power of steam. Visiting The Greatest Gathering or one of the many heritage railways participating in the anniversary offers a way to support these custodians of our industrial past.
As the festival whistle prepares to sound in early August 2025, anticipation is already building among rail lovers and families alike. Locomotion No. 1’s return to Derby promises more than a static exhibit; it will be a living celebration of two centuries of innovation, community and travel. Whether you first learned about steam engines from a picture book or have fond memories of a childhood journey on a branch line, this summer invites everyone to step back in time. Share the excitement with friends and family, pass on your own stories of steam travel, and join a nationwide tribute that honours the spirit of discovery at the heart of Britain’s railway heritage.
Image credit www.bbc.co.uk
Original source https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cx2jy9l1796o
