Fringe activities
East Midlands Railway looks forward to welcoming you to Derby for the annual Community Rail Awards 2026!
We want to help you explore and experience the best of our region and have created a programme of fringe events to give you a taste of where the train can take you.
- Wednesday 18 March – join us for a ‘Welcome to Derby’ celebration, featuring a special performance of a play about railway pioneer George Stephenson.
- Thursday 19 and Friday 20 March – Derwent Valley and North Staffs CRP’s will host visits to local tourist attractions, and history walks, giving you a taste of our region’s heritage and charm.
Additionally, in this special Railway 200 year, on Friday 20 March EMR’s Community Team are offering a rare opportunity to visit Barrow Hill Roundhouse, with a guided tour, a sneak peek at the new innovation centre and chance to look at some locos through time, this is a trip not to be missed!
After visiting Barrow Hill we will then take you to Holy Trinity Church in Chesterfield where George Stephenson is laid to rest and invite you to explore the EMR supported exhibition all about his fascinating life.
NOTE: Places on all events/activities are very limited and as these are all complimentary, they’ll be in high demand.
Click here to access full details and booking info.