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History • September 16th, 2026
|This Christmas, the National Railway Museum in York is offering a gift opportunity that stands out from the usual festive fare. The museum has launched its "Adopt an Object" scheme, allowing people to symbolically adopt one of six remarkable railway items from its extensive collection. This initiative not only provides a unique present for railway enthusiasts and history buffs but also helps preserve important pieces of railway history for future generations.
Adoption Options
The scheme features a diverse selection of objects, each with its own special story. Here are the six items available for adoption:
Evening Star: The last steam locomotive built by British Railways.
Shinkansen Bullet Train: The only example of Japan's iconic bullet train outside of its home country.
Coppernob: A rare steam locomotive that has survived the test of time, still bearing marks from a German air raid during World War II.
Queen Adelaide's Saloon: The oldest surviving royal railway carriage in Britain, steeped in royal history.
Diesel Railcar No. 4: One of the pioneering diesel railcars that changed the face of British rail travel.
Model of a Third Class Smoking Compartment Railway Carriage: Infamously linked to a sensational murder trial in 1901.
How It Works
Adopting an object is straightforward and affordable, with options starting at just £3 a month for a 12-month commitment. Each adoption comes with a digital adoption certificate and a heartfelt thank you from the museum. Supporters will also receive exclusive updates about their adopted object throughout the year, making it a gift that continues to give even after the festive season has passed.
The Importance of the Scheme
According to Anthony Coulls, Senior Curator of Rail Transport and Technology at the National Railway Museum, the scheme meets a growing demand for gifts that carry meaningful stories.
"We know people are looking for gifts that have a real story behind them.”
“Whether you're buying for a railway enthusiast, a history lover or someone who's simply hard to buy for, adopting an object offers a unique way to connect with some of the most fascinating objects in our collection."
This initiative not only supports the museum but also helps ensure that these extraordinary pieces of railway heritage can be preserved and appreciated by future generations.
A Gift That Makes a Difference
The National Railway Museum is a charity that relies heavily on public support to maintain its internationally significant collection. Funds raised through the Adopt an Object programme will contribute towards conserving railway heritage, supporting educational programmes, and keeping these remarkable stories accessible for years to come. Every adoption plays a part in inspiring future engineers, innovators, and problem-solvers.
For anyone searching for a Christmas gift that is truly unique and meaningful, the Adopt an Object scheme from the National Railway Museum offers a fantastic option. Not only does it provide a chance to own a piece of railway history, but it also plays an essential role in preserving the stories that shaped the railway industry.
Adoptions are available now and can be made online at railwaymuseum.org.uk/adopt-an-object. With such an exciting array of objects to choose from, the perfect gift for the railway lover in the family is just a click away.
