The special service departed Bristol Temple Meads at 9am, stopping at Bath Spa, Chippenham, Swindon and Didcot before reaching London Paddington for a national remembrance ceremony. Wreaths collected from stations along the route were laid at the station’s War Memorial during the tribute.
At Swindon Station, wreaths were presented to the Queen’s carriage by Councillor Jim Robbins, Leader of Swindon Borough Council; South Swindon MP Will Stone; Deputy Lieutenant of Wiltshire Shirley Ludford; Mayor of Swindon Councillor Fay Howard and Frances Yeo, head of Museums and laying a wreath on behalf of Steam museum.
The group represented the town’s long-standing link to the railway and its enduring spirit of remembrance.
As the train drew into the station, Swindon’s new Town Crier, Rob Hardy, delivered a formal address to the assembled crowd, announcing the arrival of the royal carriage and welcoming Her Majesty and the Poppy Train to the town.
Swindon’s role carried particular significance, with the town’s historic railway works having made major contributions to the war effort. Thousands of men and women from the Works served their country both at home and abroad.
Deputy Lieutenant of Wiltshire Shirley Ludford said:
“The Poppy Train began during the pandemic, when local remembrance ceremonies could not take place. What started as a simple gesture of respect has grown into a national act of remembrance, symbolising the railway’s enduring role at the heart of British life. We were deeply honoured that Her Majesty The Queen joined us this year, underscoring the importance of remembrance and the railway’s place in our shared history.”
During the journey, Her Majesty saw representatives from across the Great Western network, thanking them for their communities’ contributions and honouring the men and women who served in both World Wars.
Councillor Jim Robbins said:
“It was a huge honour for Swindon to take part in such a moving act of remembrance alongside Her Majesty. Our town’s history is built on the railway, and today’s ceremony reminded us that behind every train, every tool, and every name on the memorial is a story of service and sacrifice.”
The 2025 Poppy Train was run in partnership with The Veterans Charity and marked both the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War and the Railway 200 celebrations, commemorating two centuries since the birth of the modern railway. It was the largest event of its kind, with participation from rail operators across the UK.
