The Railway Ball 2026: Your Essential Guide

 A Night at the Movies

On Friday 27 November, The Railway Ball returns for an evening inspired by the magic of the movies.

Expect a Hollywood-style premiere that journeys from the golden age of cinema through to modern favourites.

Here is everything you need to know before the opening credits roll.

Date: Friday 27 November 2026
Venue: InterContinental London – The O2
Dress code IMPORTANT: Black tie or add a touch of movie magic by taking inspiration from your favourite film character.

More Than a Great Night Out

The Railway Ball brings the rail industry together to raise vital funds for Railway Children and its work protecting vulnerable children in the UK, India and Tanzania.

This year is particularly special as Railway Children celebrates its 30th anniversary. Together, we are also edging ever closer to an incredible milestone: £10 million raised through The Railway Ball.

Your Pre-Ball Checklist

A little preparation now means more time to enjoy the show on the night.

✔ Share Your Dietary Requirements
Please send these to the person who invited you by Friday 6 November.

✔ Plan your journey and stay
Book accommodation early if required. Shuttle buses will operate until 02:00.

✔ Look out for your e-ticket
Tickets will be issued approximately one week before the event. If yours does not arrive, please contact the person who invited you.

✔ Bring a payment card
Bars and fundraising activities will be card-only.

✔ Agree a meeting point
Meeting points will be shown on your ticket, making it easy to find friends and colleagues on arrival.

✔ Save the Wi-Fi details
Network: therailwayball
Password: railwayball

✔ Secure your Prize Draw tickets BEFORE you arrive
Prize draw tickets cost just £25 each, giving you a chance to win one of 3 fantastic prizes while supporting Railway Children Here

✔ Check out the Grand Auction
The online auction features more than 180 lots, including experiences, hospitality, travel, sport, entertainment and other exclusive opportunities, so there is plenty to bid for Here

On the Night

Drinks Reception: 18:30
Dinner: 19:30
After-Party: Until 01:30
Carriages: 01:30

As the evening unfolds, expect entertainment inspired by the world of film, fundraising games and plenty of opportunities to meet up with colleagues and friends from across the rail industry.

The final details are still under wraps. After all, every great premiere needs a little suspense.

After-Party

When the curtain falls on dinner, the action moves to the after-party. Hit the dance floor, try your luck at the casino, and enjoy a few movie-inspired surprises along the way. 

Find Out More

Visit the Railway Ball information page for travel information, accommodation details, menus, table plans and frequently asked questions.

All that remains is to step into the spotlight, enjoy the evening, support a fantastic cause, and help create another unforgettable chapter in the story of The Railway Ball.