Wabtec UK, along with City of Doncaster Council, will host a Doncaster Site Celebration Event on Saturday 20 June 2026, bringing together employees, families, rail enthusiasts and the wider community to celebrate the rich heritage and lasting contribution of its Doncaster site to the UK railway industry.
Doncaster Works holds a long and proud place in Britain’s railway history and has been synonymous with engineering excellence, innovation and skilled craftsmanship for generations. As the site approaches the end of its operational journey later this year, Wabtec is committed to taking the time to properly recognise the people, achievements and legacy that have shaped it over many decades.
Supported by the City of Doncaster Council, along with rail heritage groups and community partners, the event will offer a unique opportunity for visitors to reflect on Doncaster’s historic importance as a centre of railway engineering and to celebrate the enduring impact the site has had on the industry locally and nationally.
The event also coincides with the celebrations of 150 years since Sir Nigel Grelsey was born and iconic steam locomotives will be on display in the very place they were built at Doncaster Works, including Sir Nigel Gresley and the world-famous Flying Scotsman.
Mayor of Doncaster, Ros Jones, said: “The work of Sir Nigel Gresley has created a lasting legacy for Doncaster’s railway industry, and I am delighted that this special event will celebrate the 150th anniversary of the birth of an iconic steam locomotive engineer. I hope many people enjoy the splendid displays.”
A day of celebration:
The event will feature a range of attractions designed to honour the site’s history and create a memorable experience for visitors of all ages, including:
- Locomotive displays, including Sir Nigel Gresley in steam, marking the 150th anniversary of its designer, displayed outside the factory where it was originally built, alongside static displays such as Flying Scotsman and locomotives including Classes 37, 56 and 58
- Shunting demonstrations, showcasing traditional rail operations
- A museum style heritage display featuring historic memorabilia, artefacts and photographs from the site’s rich past
- Other interesting displays and stands from rail enthusiast groups
- Live entertainment throughout the day
- Children’s rides and family friendly activities
- A variety of food and refreshments available on site
The event is intended as a moment of pride and reflection, celebrating generations of skill and dedication, the achievements made at Doncaster, and the site’s enduring contribution to the UK railway sector.
Event details and tickets:
To manage anticipated demand, the event will operate across two timed entry sessions on Saturday 20 June:
• 10:00 – 14:00hrs
• 14:00 – 18:00hrs
Tickets will be limited and available from 11th May 2026 via Eventbrite.
Please search for “Doncaster Works Celebration Event”.
Early booking is strongly encouraged to avoid disappointment.
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