This year, 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 – including rides along our test tracks and through the famous Dudley Railway Tunnel, music and entertainment, and plenty of options for food and drink.

We are also thrilled that Pete Waterman OBE, President of the Railway Benefit Fund, will be joining us as our special guest to officially open the event!

All profits from the day will be donated to five very special charities: The Kaleidoscope Plus Group, Railway Benefit Fund, 4Louis, Railway Children and Young Lives vs. Cancer.

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…