From 1 to 3 August 2025, Alstom’s historic Litchurch Lane factory in Derby, UK, became the epicentre of the railway world with ‘The Greatest Gathering’, an unprecedented event that brought together more than 140 iconic trains from all eras.
It was the first time in almost 50 years that this iconic factory opened its doors to the public, as part of the bicentenary celebration of the opening of the first railway to use steam locomotives (Stockton & Darlingiton).
In addition, the media and the official entourage arrived in Derby on a special train from Crewe. This was the Creighton-Ward Explorer, which was carried on board Avanti West Coast’s Pendolino 390119 Progress. As the line is not electrified, it was hauled to the factory by Direct Rail Services locomotive 57307.
Earlier, the international media visited Alstom’s workshops at Old Oak Common, where the Class 345 trains, which serve the Elizabeth Line, are maintained.
The Greatest Gathering: trains 200 years apart
More than a typical exhibition or fair, it was a festival with soul and enthusiasm, designed to inspire and excite train lovers, families and onlookers alike.
For three days, Derby vibrated with the sound of historic locomotives, the distinctive smell of steam and the excitement of the trains of the future. The event, announced in January, gathered trains from the legendary Locomotion No. 1 (the first locomotive to run on public rail in 1825) to the interior model of Britain’s future HS2 high-speed trains, yet to be built.
The Greatest Gathering attendees also enjoyed test track rides and narrow gauge trains on temporary tracks, talks on the future of sustainable transport, children’s activities, live music and The Model Railway Village. All wrapped up in a festive, family-friendly atmosphere that made for an unforgettable three days.
Public success
Nearly 40,000 people did not want to miss this unique event, and the response was so massive that tickets were sold out in just three days!
Families, enthusiasts, experts, and tourists lived together among historic locomotives and state-of-the-art technology, creating a festive, joyful and educational atmosphere. The combination of exhibitions, music, gastronomy, and activities for all ages made The Greatest Gathering a unique event for everyone.
Trains that captivated visitors
Among the more than 140 vehicles on display at The Greatest Gathering, we highlight the following treasures on rails:
Locomotion No. 1
This bicentenary piece was the first locomotive to carry passengers on a public railway. It did so in 1825, revolutionising transport.
Saloon car 45000
LNWR Royal Saloon No. 45000, built in 1920, is a luxurious historic saloon car on display at The Greatest Gathering. It was used by Winston Churchill during World War II.
Saloon car 975025, “Caroline”.
Caroline is an elegant historic saloon car, which has been used in iconic moments such as the visit of Pope John Paul II or the honeymoon of Charles and Lady Di.
Prince and Trangkil locomotives No. 4
The 60 cm narrow gauge was represented by the Prince (1863), the oldest working narrow gauge steam locomotive and Trangkil No. 4. They ran on a temporary track laid only for The Greatest Gathering.
Furness Railway No. 20
Furness locomotive No. 20, built in 1863, before the Prince and is the oldest working steam locomotive in the UK.
60163 Tornado
The 60163 Tornado locomotive, completed in 2008, is a replica of the classic Peppercorn A1, combining history and technology. While it is not the newest broad gauge steam locomotive, it is one of the latest.
13268 LMS Stanier Mogul
Manufactured in 1934, it is the only survivor of its class and is still operational on the Severn Valley Railway. The move to the Greatest Gathering was the first time it had run (towed) on the national network since 1998.
You can watch these and two more videos of The Greatest Gathering on our Titktok or Instagram accounts.
Litchurch Lane, making trains since 1839
Litchurch Lane is not merely a workshop; it is a tangible representation of the technological advancements in transportation and the Industrial Revolution.
It has produced epoch-making trains and continues to be a pioneer in the development of electric, high-speed and sustainable trains.
The Greatest Gathering was a distinctive opportunity for individuals from around the world to personally witness and influence the significance of this factory, which has been a part of British railway history for more than 180 years.
This factory was owned by Bombardier Transportation and was acquired by Alstom in 2021. It was previously owned by BREL, the London, Midland and Scottish Railway and Midland Railway.
The fair was not limited to historic trains and Alstom’s latest trains. Other manufacturers, such as Stadler or CAF, also participated, exhibiting their latest rail vehicles for the UK.