National Railway Museum partners with Royal Mail

To coincide with the 200th anniversary of the modern railway, Royal Mail is set to release a set of stamps honouring Britain’s enduring legacy of steam locomotion.

The National Railway Museum has partnered with Royal Mail to create a new set of stamps celebrating the rich heritage of British steam locomotives and the pioneering development of the UK’s rail network.

The main set features six iconic locomotives in the National Railway Museum’s collection that helped to shape the history of rail travel in Britain, including Locomotion No.1, Rocket and Mallard. In addition, a miniature sheet containing four stamps marks 200 years since the opening of the Stockton and Darlington Railway (S&DR).

The National Railway Museum in York has the largest collection of railway objects in the world. It is home to iconic locomotives and an unrivalled collection of engineering brilliance, celebrating the past, present and future of rail innovation.

David Gold, director of External Affairs and Policy, Royal Mail, said: “To coincide with the 200th anniversary of the modern railway, Royal Mail is releasing a set of stamps honouring Britain’s enduring legacy of steam locomotion. This stamp issue captures the spirit of an era that transformed travel and trade forever.”

Amy Harbour, head of Licensing and Commercial Partnerships at the Science Museum Group, said: “It’s always a pleasure to work with Royal Mail and we were thrilled when the Museum was approached to celebrate 200 years of the modern railway with this beautifully curated stamp collection. These stamps honour the ingenuity and legacy of railway pioneers, while showcasing the enduring impact of steam technology. It’s a privilege to bring this story to life for the nation, and to mark such a significant milestone in Britain’s industrial heritage.”

The stamps, and a range of collectible products, are available to pre-order from 18th September at www.royalmail.com/steamlocomotives and by telephone on 03457 641 641. A Presentation Pack including all 10 stamps is priced at £17.90. The stamps go on general sale from 25th September.