Tracks Through Time: Woking and the Railway
2025 marked the 200th anniversary of the world’s first public steam passenger train, which first ran on 27 September 1825. Pulled by George Stephenson’s Locomotion No.1, the train carried over 400 people along the Stockton and Darlington Railway, attracting crowds of up to 40,000 and ushering in the era of modern passenger travel.
As part of the Railway 200 celebrations, displays in Woking’s Story explore how the arrival of the railway in 1838 transformed Woking from rural common land into a bustling commuter town. The station quickly became a key junction, sparking growth and development across the region.
2025 also marked 140 years since the London and South Western Railway Servants’ Orphanage was founded in 1885. Moving to Woking in 1909, the Orphanage cared for children of railway workers. Today, Woking Homes continues to provide residential and respite care for those aged 65 and older.
Also featured is Local Hero Freeman Munday, a Woking-based railwayman and World War I hero. Munday’s bravery earned him the Distinguished Conduct Medal, and he dedicated 49 years to the railway, retiring in 1968 after serving in both the military and the Southern Railway Home Guard.
With thanks to funding from the Community Rail Network, and support from Paula Aldridge, Community Rail Manager, South Western Railway; Lightbox volunteers Richard and Rosemary Christophers, and Neil Burnett; and Daniel Ball, Learning & Outreach Coordinator at The Watercress Line.
Join us to celebrate 200 Years of Train Travel since 1825.
