Old Gala Club Goes By Train

Step aboard a journey through history with the Old Gala Club’s latest exhibition, exploring the rich and fascinating development of the Galashiels railway from the 1800s to the present day. Discover how the arrival of the railway transformed the town, connecting Galashiels to the wider world and fuelling the growth of the textile industry.

Through rare photographs, personal stories, maps, and artefacts, this exhibition captures the spirit of innovation, resilience, and community pride that has defined the railway’s role in local life for over 150 years. Trace the rise of the original Waverley Line, its decline and closure in the 1960s, and the remarkable campaign that led to the return of the Borders Railway in 2015.

Whether you’re a railway enthusiast, history lover, or curious local, “Old Gala Club Goes By Train” offers a unique look at how trains helped shape the heart and heritage of Galashiels. Join us in celebrating the enduring connection between the town and the tracks that changed it forever.

This exhibition is presented by the Old Gala Club, and brings the past to life—and reminds us how history continues to shape our journey forward.