Railway service prepares to welcome thousands to rail jamboree
As a once-in-a-generation celebration of rail heritage and innovation prepares to open its gates, the East Midlands rail network is gearing up to get thousands of visitors safely to and from The Greatest Gathering.
From Friday 1 to Sunday 3 August, Alstom’s historic Derby Litchurch Lane Works will host over 12,000 guests daily for a landmark celebration of rail’s past, present, and future.
With Derby station set to be a keystone of many journeys, CrossCountry, East Midlands Railway and Alstom are working together to ensure smooth journeys for eventgoers throughout the weekend.
The sold-out event will showcase an extraordinary collection of historic and modern trains, with CrossCountry featured in the Railway Family zone alongside fellow train operators.
Ben Simkin, CrossCountry’s regional director for the East Midlands and East Anglia, said: “The Greatest Gathering is a unique celebration of our industry, and we’re proud to play our part in making it a success.
“With thousands expected to travel by train, we’re working closely with our partners to ensure everyone arrives safely and enjoys a seamless experience from station to site.”
“We’re also thrilled to be part of the Railway Family zone, where our colleagues will be on hand to share what makes CrossCountry special and connect with rail enthusiasts from across the country.”
To support the crowds, extra staff will be on hand at Derby station and other key interchanges, with safety and customer service plans developed in collaboration with Network Rail, British Transport Police, and event organisers.
Philippa Cresswell, customer experience director at East Midlands Railway, said: “The Greatest Gathering is a truly special event for Derby and the wider rail community, and we’re thrilled to welcome thousands of visitors to the city and to Derby station.
“It’s a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the past, present and future of the railway in a place that has played such a central role in its development.
"To help everyone enjoy the day safely and comfortably, we’re asking visitors to follow our travel tips, use the signed walking routes, expect busy services and consider arriving early.”
Alstom's The Greatest Gathering forms part of celebrations for Railway 200 - the nationwide commemoration marking 200 years since the opening of the Stockton and Darlington Railway on 27 September 1825.
Andy Butters, Alstom's managing director of Derby Litchurch Lane Works, said: "We’re incredibly proud to open the gates of our Litchurch Lane Works to the public for The Greatest Gathering.
“Our site has been at the heart of British rail innovation for generations, and it’s a privilege to welcome thousands of visitors to celebrate Railway 200 with the world's largest-ever display of historic and modern trains.
“Delivering a successful event of this scale takes true collaboration, and we’re working hand in hand with partners across Derby to ensure a memorable experience for everyone."
Trains to and from Derby are expected to be very busy across all three days of the event. On Sunday 3 August, services arriving at Derby before 10:00 will be limited, so visitors are strongly advised to plan ahead and allow plenty of time for their journeys.
To avoid disappointment:
- Check train times and plan your journey at www.nationalrail.co.uk
- Be aware that queuing systems may be in place at busy stations
- Be kind and respectful to rail staff working throughout the event
- If using rail staff passes or discounted tickets, please be mindful of terms and conditions, especially regarding seating on busy services
