Exhibition opens on 150th Anniversary of Abbots Ripton Rail Disaster

An exhibition exploring the Abbots Ripton Rail Disaster opens to the public today at Huntingdon Town Hall, following an opening ceremony held on Monday 19th January.

The exhibition marks the events of 21 January 1876, when a series of collisions involving two express trains and a coal train near Abbots Ripton resulted in one of the most significant rail disasters of the Victorian era. It examines the accident itself, the severe weather conditions on the night, the local response, and the subsequent Court of Inquiry, which led to lasting changes in railway safety.

The opening ceremony was attended by local civic dignitaries, council members, and people from the community, all keen to help share this important piece of local history. The Mayor of Huntingdon, Cllr Audrey McAdam, officially opened the exhibition and spoke about the town’s connection to the disaster, the role local people played at the time, and the work of local historian Charles Saunders, whose collection is at the centre of the exhibition.

“This exhibition is a chance to remember the lives affected by the Abbots Ripton Rail Disaster and to celebrate the way our town came together to help in the aftermath,” said Councillor Audrey McAdam, Mayor of Huntingdon. “We’re proud to share this important story with everyone and hope it brings history to life for our community.”

Exhibition Opening Times

• Monday 19 January: 11am – 4pm
• Tuesday 20 January: 10am – 8pm (late night opening)
• Wednesday 21 January: 10am – 4pm
• Thursday 22 January: 10am – 4pm

The exhibition is held on the ground floor of Huntingdon Town Hall in the Market Square. Entry is free, and all are welcome to explore the history and stories of the Abbots Ripton Rail Disaster.

Source: Press release:  Huntingdon Town Council 19th January 2026