Construction Begins on Central Hall and Railway Futures Gallery at National Railway Museum

Construction has officially begun on the Central Hall and Railway Futures: The Porterbrook Gallery at the National Railway Museum, signalling an exciting new chapter for one of Yorkshire's most beloved attractions. This development promises to reshape how visitors experience the museum, making it more accessible and engaging for everyone.

Construction Begins

On 21 September 2026, the National Railway Museum celebrated the start of construction with an exclusive event attended by key funders and supporters. This event included representatives from Porterbrook, a leading train leasing company, and Mott MacDonald, a global engineering consultancy. Philanthropists who have contributed to the project also joined the festivities, highlighting the community's role in bringing this ambitious plan to life.

NRM Director Craig Bentley with Porterbrook CEO Mary Grant

NRM Director Craig Bentley with Porterbrook CEO Mary Grant

Craig Bentley, the Director of the National Railway Museum, expressed enthusiasm about the project, stating:

“This celebration marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the National Railway Museum. Central Hall and Railway Futures: The Porterbrook Gallery will transform how people experience the museum. We are enormously grateful to the funders, partners, and supporters who have helped bring us to this point. Together, we are laying the foundations for a museum that preserves the past, serves the present, and inspires the future."

What to Expect from the New Gallery

The Central Hall will serve as a welcoming gateway to the museum, designed with sustainability in mind. It will create new spaces that enhance visitor experiences while exploring the future of rail travel. This new gallery, called Railway Futures, will not only celebrate the rich history of railways but also encourage visitors to dream about what the future holds for train travel.

Mary Grant, the CEO of Porterbrook, emphasised the importance of inspiring the next generation:

“Inspiring a new generation of talent to join this great industry is of the utmost importance. Young people are fascinated by trains, and this new gallery will keep that spark alive by showcasing the vast possibilities the future holds. The journey of rail innovation does not have a final destination, and that’s the story that Railway Futures will tell.”

A Unique Experience for Guests

During the event, guests donned hard hats and personal protective equipment (PPE) to take an exclusive tour of the construction site. This tour provided a first-hand look at the early stages of construction, including excavation works and the laying of foundations for the future Central Hall. The participants also had the unique opportunity to sign copies of the gallery’s design plans, which will be placed in a time capsule, preserving a snapshot of the project as it begins its journey. A spokesperson for the Friends of the National Railway Museum shared their excitement, stating, “To be included in such a prestigious gathering of guests was a real privilege. Over the next 18 months, it will be great to watch the progress of the building work, but to be ‘in at the start’ will be something that will remain with me for a long time!”

The Importance of Community Support

The National Railway Museum acknowledges the support from various funders and partners that are making this ambitious transformation possible. Special recognition goes to Porterbrook, Mott MacDonald, and individual philanthropists like Wick and Bonnie Moorman, who have all played a significant role in this project. The museum, known for housing the largest collection of railway objects in the world, aims to enhance its offerings and engage more visitors. As a charity, it relies heavily on the generosity of individuals and businesses to continue preserving the rich history of Britain’s railways. Admission to the National Railway Museum remains free, although visitors are encouraged to book in advance to ensure a smooth experience. The museum has welcomed almost 40 million visitors since it opened in 1975 and celebrated its 50th birthday last year in 2025.