Shepton Mallet: Free exhibition train rolls into Cranmore

By Laura Linham 31st Mar 2026

Local News by Laura Linham 31st Mar 2026

The Railway 200 attraction, called Inspiration, will pull into Cranmore station from Monday, 1 June to Wednesday, 3 June 2026, in what organisers say is one of the final chances for Somerset visitors to see it before the tour ends.

More than 80,000 people have already stepped aboard the train during its year-long tour of Britain. Organisers say visitors have hailed it as "brilliant", "fascinating" and "really well curated" - with nine in 10 saying they would recommend it to a friend.

Inside, families can expect interactive exhibits, rare artefacts and hands-on engineering challenges as the train tells the story of how the railways transformed Britain and the world. The exhibition has been co-curated with the National Railway Museum and also shines a light on lesser-known careers in the railway industry.

Tickets are free, but availability is limited and booking is required. Local schools will also be invited for bespoke tours during the Cranmore stop.

Simon Bending, general manager at East Somerset Railway, said: "We are excited to be one of the final destinations for this amazing train. Our own railway line opened 170 years ago and we have recently celebrated our 50th anniversary in preservation. We can't wait to welcome local schools and visitors."

Emma Roberts, programme manager for Railway 200, said the train had already travelled thousands of miles across Britain and urged people not to miss one of their last opportunities to see it. Rail Minister Lord Peter Hendy said the project was not just about celebrating the past, but helping inspire the next generation of railway engineers, drivers, conductors and technicians.

For Shepton Mallet, Cranmore and the wider Mendip area, the visit looks set to be a big draw for families, railway lovers and school groups alike. And with the tour nearing its final stop, this could be the last chance for many locals to catch one of the most talked-about railway attractions in the country.

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