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Become a Patron

Patrons play an essential role in our mission to provide spaces for inspiration and learning for all, helping us share remarkable stories of railway innovation and igniting a lifelong passion for engineering, science and technology. 

Why join us?

Not only do our Patrons have a passion for railways, engineering and technology—they understand the importance of addressing the urgent challenges in the UK engineering sector.

Nearly 50,000 rail industry employees are expected to retire by 2030, and the proportion of under-25s has halved since 2016—now making up just 5% of the workforce. By joining, you help us bridge this widening skills gap and inspire the next generation of engineers through our exhibits and learning programmes. Your support is crucial in preserving railway history and championing future engineering innovation in the UK and beyond.

Invest in our future

We are currently delivering a transformational Masterplan project to reposition Locomotion and its sister site in York, the National Railway Museum, as world-class museums celebrating the past, the present and the future of the railways. Your support will help us create new galleries and buildings, care for our collection, provide transformative learning opportunities, and keep the world’s greatest railway collection accessible and relevant to all.

A group gathers to get on the footplate
Patrons and supporters enjoying a footplate experience aboard Flying Scotsman at our annual Director’s Dinner

Patron benefits

Join a community dedicated to progress, education, and innovation. As a Patron of both Locomotion and the National Railway Museum, you’ll enjoy:

Exclusive events

Gain unique insights into the museum and the wider railway industry through special events. Engage with world-class engineering experts and our museum community.

Behind-the-scenes tours

Explore the hidden gems of our collection, including rare objects not accessible to the public, both in York and across other Science Museum Group sites.

Unique opportunities

Patrons enjoy tailored experiences and exclusive invitations to our most prestigious events.

Packages

The impact of your support

Your donation as a Patron directly impacts our ability to deliver world-class experiences and achieve our ambitious masterplan to transform our museums. This masterplan is the roadmap for our future, ensuring that the museum continues to inspire and educate generations to come.

Join us today

By becoming a Patron, you invest in the future of education and engineering. Help us preserve the past, inspire future innovators and contribute to our ambitious vision for the future.

Together, we can make a lasting impact.