National Train Day is a celebration that takes place each year. The event is held on the closest Saturday to the 10th of May each year, meaning it’ll be taking place on 13th May this year. It’s a wonderful day that celebrates the history, heritage, and future of the railways around the world.
It’s also a great day to recognise the contribution that trains have made to the development of the country and to honour the people who have worked on the railways over the years.
History of National Train Day
The first National Train Day UK was held in 2008 by Amtrak, and it has been celebrated every year since. The event was originally created to celebrate the 175th anniversary of the first steam-powered passenger railway in the world, which opened in the UK in 1830.
Since then, National Train Day UK has become a day to celebrate all aspects of the UK’s railway history, including its impact on industry, tourism, and culture.
Celebrating National Train Day
If you’re looking for a way to celebrate National Train Day, we’ve put together some ideas for you to take on board.
- Take a train journey
What better way to celebrate National Train Day than by taking a train journey? Whether you’re commuting to work or taking a leisurely trip, taking the train is a great way to appreciate the beauty of the country and to experience the thrill of travelling by rail.
- Visit a railway museum
The UK has a wealth of railway museums that are open to the public. These museums showcase the history of the railways and often include exhibits on steam engines, locomotives, and other aspects of rail travel. So why not enhance your knowledge by learning a bit more about trains!
- Visit a railway station
Railway stations are often architectural gems in their own right, and many of them have interesting histories. Take a stroll around your local station and appreciate its design and history today.
- Watch a train documentary
There are many documentaries about trains and the history of the railways. Watching one can be a great way to learn more about the impact that trains have had on, not only the UK, but the globe! They’re a great watch to appreciate the hard work that has gone into building and maintaining the railway network over the years.
- Read a book about trains
There are many books about trains and the history of the railways. Whether you’re interested in the engineering side of things or the social impact of the railways, there is sure to be a book that will interest you.
National Train Day is an important day for celebrating the history and heritage of railways around the world. It’s a great day to appreciate the beauty of the railways, to learn more about their history, and to recognise the hard work that has gone into building and maintaining the railway network. Whether you’re a train enthusiast or just someone who appreciates the importance of the railways, National Train Day is a day worth celebrating!
