The Railway 200 exhibition train, named Inspiration, has already attracted more than 40,000 visitors on a 60-stop tour of Britain.
It will be stationed at Salisbury from February 21 to February 23, 2026.
The train provides a historical insight into railway developments, interactive engineering challenges, and a look at unique railway careers.
Visitors have lauded the exhibition as “brilliant” and “fascinating.”
One recent visitor said: “I loved everything as soon as I got on board.
“The displays and history of the railways to the interactive stuff was all brilliant in my eyes, even my five-year-old daughter absolutely loved it.”
Inspiration is a part of the wider Railway 200 initiative, a national campaign celebrating two centuries of the modern railway.
This event celebrates two centuries since Stephenson’s Locomotion No. 1 steamed along the Stockton and Darlington Railway and has since celebrated the innovation that revolutionised travel, supercharged economies, and enabled mass tourism.
Lawrence Bowman, Managing Director, South Western Railway and Network Rail Wessex, said: “South Western Railway is delighted that the Railway 200 exhibition train Inspiration will return to our network in February 2026, following its successful appearance at London Waterloo and its upcoming visit to Southampton Central in December.
“The train will call at Salisbury and Kingston in February 2026, again offering schools, colleges and the public a unique opportunity to explore the past, present and future of the railway and how it has contributed to modern society.
“Inspiration is looking to engage with communities, celebrate rail innovation, and inspire young people to consider careers within the rail industry.”
Inside the train (Image: PHIL MARSH)
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 Salisbury, and we look forward to welcoming you aboard.”
Rail minister Lord Peter Hendy said: “I’m proud to be celebrating our heritage as the birthplace of the modern railway; to this day our railway network is the backbone of our economy, driving economic growth, jobs and homes.
“With this train, we’re not just looking to the past, we are inspiring the diverse next generation of engineers, drivers, conductors, and technicians, and shining a light on what the railway is delivering today.”
Tickets are free, but availability is limited.
