In 2025, we mark the 200th anniversary of the birth of the modern railway, with a national celebration of the past, present and future of rail entitled ‘Railway 200’. Over the year, railways and rail organisations across the UK will be delivering a range of events within four key themes: skills and education; innovation, technology and environment; heritage, culture and tourism; and celebrating railway people.

With our own incredibly proud 175-year history on a unique site in the heart of the Black Country, which encompasses impressive early Victorian railway architecture alongside our new landmark Very Light Rail National Innovation Centre, BCIMO will be celebrating the anniversary with a Family Day on Saturday 17th May, welcoming visitors from across both the rail and regional communities.

In a busy day of activities, we’ll have stands from local business and organisations, fairground rides and attractions, music and entertainment, and plenty of options for food and drink – there’ll even be rides into the famous Dudley Railway Tunnel! And all profits from the day will be donated to four very special charities: The Kaleidoscope Plus Group, Railway Children, 4Louis and Young Lives vs. Cancer.

So, if you’re passionate about all things ‘rail’, live locally and want a fun day out with the family, or just want to find out a little more about what we do here at BCIMO, we look forward to seeing you!

The event will be split over two levels of the Very Light Rail National Innovation Centre; the second floor – home to our Meeting & Event Spaces, and the ground floor / outside – home to our Rail Development & Test Site.

More details on each ‘station’ will be provided as we finalise the details and bookings…