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Experience the story of the World’s First Passenger Railway. Watch now!
Rocket: All Aboard is a dynamic, multi-year programme (2029–2030) celebrating 200 years since the opening of the Liverpool to Manchester Railway — the world’s
first inter-city passenger line. This groundbreaking railway reshaped travel, trade, and the way we live.
Today, Rocket: All Aboard will bring its story to life through experiences, exhibitions, live cultural events, research, and community projects across the North West and beyond.
The programme will highlight the railway’s role in connecting people and places, spark conversations around sustainability and innovation, and invite audiences of all ages to take part in this once-in-a-lifetime celebration of movement, heritage, and progress and how its story can inspire new journeys for the future.
Purpose & vision
To celebrate a world-changing moment in transport and industrial history and to position it as a catalyst for future innovation.
To create a legacy through cultural engagement, education, skills and community collaboration.
To explore how the railway redefined the way we live and continues to influence our world.
To spark bold new ideas for the future, reimagining travel, infrastructure, and climate action in ways that benefit all people.
Let’s celebrate the journey we’ve taken - and the one that lies ahead!