York has a proud history as a rail hub and ambitious plans for the future. Join us at York Festival of Ideas as we celebrate 200 years of the modern railway with a series of events presented in partnership with LNER. Discover the transformational power of rail – past, present and future – and its impact locally, regionally and nationally.
Three free events are on offer on Saturday 7 June – join us for one or stay for all three:
Transforming York: Rail’s legacy (11am to 12.30pm)
On 27 September 1825, George Stephenson’s steam-powered Locomotion No. 1 travelled 26 miles between Shildon, Darlington and Stockton. Discover how this journey changed the world forever, as our expert speakers discuss 200 years of rail history and its impact on York.
York: A 21st-century rail hub (1.30pm to 3pm)
Learn about the major changes taking place in the heart of our city centre, driven by York’s Masterplan and the ambitious
York Central regeneration scheme. How will these developments drive economic, social and cultural growth? Hear from our speakers and join in the conversation.
Rail: A gateway to the future (3.30pm to 5pm)
What will the next generation rail transport look like? How will it contribute to a sustainable future? Our speakers discuss rail travel from a technological, environmental and customer perspective, revealing how the spirit of invention and
innovation of rail’s early pioneers lives on.