Young artists inspired by the Borders Railway are to have their artwork displayed at ScotRail stations along the route.

Borders Railway Community Partnership (BCRP), in collaboration with ScotRail and the Great Tapestry of Scotland, invited pupils from across the country to take part in the 2026 ‘Art Along the Borders Railway Line’ competition earlier this year. 

School children were challenged to design a poster encouraging visitors to explore the Borders Railway, highlighting the culture, heritage, and destinations found along the route from Edinburgh through Midlothian and into the Scottish Borders. 

Nearly 200 entries were received, with pupils showcasing creativity, artistic skill, and a strong connection to the Borders region. 

Twelve winning designs have been professionally framed and exhibited at the Great Tapestry of Scotland visitor centre. The twelve designs will now be reproduced as posters and will be displayed at railway stations between Edinburgh Waverley and Tweedbank, giving customers a unique view of the route through the eyes of its young artists. 

Judith Cleghorn, vice chair of the Borders Railway Community Partnership, said: “BRCP is delighted to have been involved with the Art Along the Line competition. The standard of artwork was exceptionally high, and with nearly 200 entries, it was very difficult to choose the winners.   
 
“I’d like to thank everyone who took part, and we look forward to seeing the new posters in place on our stations along the Borders Railway line.” 

Paul McKay, communications director at ScotRail, said: “ScotRail is committed to making a positive impact on communities across the country, and this is an excellent example of that. 

“The project has helped to connect young people with rail travel and the communities in the Borders, and we’re incredibly grateful to all those who took part. 

“The artworks show a fresh and inspiring perspective of one of Scotland’s most scenic routes, and I’d encourage customers to look out for them at stations along the Borders Railway when they go on display.” 

Sandy Maxwell-Forbes, Great Tapestry of Scotland centre director, said: “We were absolutely delighted to support and host this project at the Great Tapestry of Scotland.  

“It has been incredibly rewarding to see how young people from across the region have responded to the Borders Railway, capturing its landscapes, stories, and sense of journey with such creativity and insight. 

“Creating opportunities like this where young voices are celebrated reflects the strength of partnership working and what can be achieved when organisations come together with a shared purpose. We are very proud to have played a part in bringing these works to life and sharing them with a wider audience.” 

Learn more about ScotRail’s work in the community here.