As we approach Remembrance season, The Veterans’ Charity is proud to welcome participants to the 6th running of the “Routes of Remembrance – Poppies to Paddington”, a truly special event made possible through the superb ongoing support of Great Western Railway (GWR).
What began in 2020—at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic—as a simple act of compassion to help one elderly veteran safely take part in remembrance, has since grown into an international symbol of unity and reflection.
From that first journey in Cornwall, the “Routes of Remembrance” have now travelled across the UK and around the world, reaching every continent except Africa so far, and using every imaginable form of transport: from trains and aircraft to patrol boats, horses, and even a Dunkirk Little Ship. Each journey carries the same message — remembrance in motion, honouring those who have served and ensuring their memory continues to travel with us.
This year, Poppies to Paddington 2025 once again sees remembrance poppy wreaths and tributes travelling from towns and cities across the South West and South Wales, arriving into London Paddington for a poignant service of reflection. The images shared show the departure times and routes of the GWR trains carrying these precious tributes.
You can view the full route and joining details on our Facebook page: Routes of Remembrance – Poppies to Paddington 2025
We are delighted to once again invite communities, schools, veterans, and serving personnel in the South West and South Wales to join us along the route — to place poppies, wave flags, and show their support as the trains make their way to Paddington.
Elsewhere, our partners at East Midlands Railway will also be holding special memorial events at key stations including Sheffield, Derby, Nottingham, and Lincoln, ensuring remembrance reaches every corner of the network.
This year holds added significance as we mark both Railway 200 — celebrating two centuries of Britain’s railways — and Military Railway 170, honouring the 170th anniversary of the first dedicated military railway, built during the Crimean War to support British and Allied forces. The link between remembrance and the railways runs deep, reminding us that our nation’s transport networks have always played a vital role in bringing people, communities, and memories together.
The concept for Routes of Remembrance was created by one of The Veterans Charity’s Trustees to ensure that remembrance stayed on track through the challenges of the pandemic — and it has continued to grow each year, connecting people across generations and continents.
As the wreaths travel once again toward Paddington, each one carries the gratitude of the nation — a moving reminder that remembrance is not just a moment in time, but a journey of respect, unity, and enduring love for those who served.
Lest We Forget. 🌹
