From Lockdown Hobby to Station Cab: Austin’s Railway Dream Day

An eight-year-old rail fan from Suffolk was given a behind-the-scenes experience at Liverpool Street station after Network Rail Anglia stepped in to make his latest adventure one to remember.

Austin’s love of trains began during the 2020 lockdown, when he would watch services pass from his back garden. As restrictions eased, those observations turned into nationwide trips with his dad, documenting their journeys across Britain. What started as family outings soon grew into a social media presence, with Austin’s Rail Adventures on Instagram and X attracting thousands of followers.

But the enthusiasm hit a setback when Austin told his father he wanted to pause the trips. In a post on X, his dad explained the reason: “3 months ago, Austin told me that he wanted a break from adventures. I didn't know why at the time, but it turns out it was because someone had made fun of him for being into trains.” The message prompted an outpouring of support from railway staff and fellow enthusiasts keen to show Austin he was not alone.

Liverpool Street became the stage for his latest outing. Earlier this month, Austin and his dad arrived at the station for their first-ever guided tour. Accompanied by Stripey, Austin’s tiger companion, the trio were welcomed at reception and presented with visitor passes before beginning their access-all-areas visit.

With a football match scheduled that day, the station was expected to be especially busy, making a safety briefing the first order of business. The group visited the CCTV room, where they were given an overview of operations and the station’s history. Austin also took part in the Railway 200 exhibition, posing as a signaller using the seaside-style cut-out boards before heading to the real Liverpool Street signal box to see how trains are controlled and routed safely across the network.

The experience continued back on the concourse, where Austin enjoyed a ride in an assistance buggy. The highlight came with cab visits arranged by Greater Anglia, giving him the chance to step inside both a Class 720 and a Class 745. To round off the day, he was presented with a Greater Anglia hare soft toy, promptly named Greater Red, much to the delight of Stripey.

Sara Ashmore Barrios, station manager for Network Rail at Liverpool Street, said:

“When we heard about Austin and his adventures, we couldn’t wait to welcome him to Britain’s busiest station for an access-all-areas tour. His enthusiasm is truly infectious, and it was a pleasure to show him how all the various parts of the railway come together to deliver for passengers. Inspiring the next generation of railway workers is vital for the future of the industry, and we like to offer encouragement and insight wherever we can.”

Ashley, Austin’s dad, said:

“Austin was in his element for the entire day, skipping around the station. He absolutely loves exploring the railway, and our journeys together even inspired me to take a new job as a train conductor. I keep thinking he will wake up one day and say he’s now into football and not trains, but he hasn’t yet and while he loves it, we’ll continue our adventures and social media.”

Image: Network Rail