Amberley Museum is inviting visitors to celebrate an important milestone in railway history as the museum marks the 150th anniversary of the historic Billingshurst signal box during its popular Rail Gala weekend.

The Grade II listed Billingshurst signal box, carefully relocated to Amberley Museum and restored by dedicated volunteers, has played an important role in preserving Britain's railway heritage.

Throughout the weekend, visitors will have the rare opportunity to step inside the working signal box, meet the volunteer signalmen and discover how Victorian railway signalling helped keep Britain's railways running safely.

To mark the anniversary, a special hands-on heritage activity area will be located alongside the signal box from 11am to 2pm on Saturday, July 18 and Sunday, July 19.

Amberley Museum is inviting visitors to mark the 150th anniversary of the historic Billingshurst signal box. Picture contributed

placeholder image — Amberley Museum is inviting visitors to mark the 150th anniversary of the historic Billingshurst signal box. Picture contributed

Visitors of all ages can explore historic railway objects, handle artefacts, view archive photographs and learn more about the fascinating history of the signal box and the people who worked within it.

Adding to the celebrations, Horsham-based Brolly Brewing has created a unique commemorative ale, Signal Box 150 IPA, brewed using a late 19th century recipe inspired by the era in which the signal box first entered service.

Visitors will be able to enjoy complimentary tasting samples during the weekend (subject to availability), while learning more about the story behind this special anniversary brew.

The anniversary celebrations form part of Amberley Museum's much-loved Rail Gala, a weekend packed with railway action across the Museum's 36-acre site.

Visitors can enjoy rides behind steam, diesel and electric locomotives throughout the day, watch trains in action, explore a wide range of model railway layouts and exhibitions, and photograph an impressive variety of historic railway vehicles.

Away from the railway, there is even more to discover. Visitors can explore over 40 exhibit areas celebrating Britain's industrial heritage, enjoy traditional craft demonstrations including woodworking, printing and pottery, and meet many of the skilled volunteers who help bring the Museum to life through hands-on demonstrations and activities.

The museum will also be highlighting future plans to continue celebrating the Billingshurst signal box anniversary, including a partnership with Billingshurst Amateur Dramatic Society to stage Charles Dickens' classic ghost story The Signalman later this year.

Visitors can also continue the story beyond their visit by watching the Tracing the Rails documentary series, which explores Sussex's rich railway heritage.

One episode features the Billingshurst signal box, charting its remarkable journey from the railway station to its new home at Amberley Museum, where it has been carefully preserved for future generations.

Whether you're a railway enthusiast, history lover, craft fan or simply looking for a great family day out, the Rail Gala promises a fascinating weekend celebrating Britain's rich railway heritage.

Amberley Museum's Rail Gala takes place on Saturday, July 18 and Sunday, July 19, with normal museum admission applying. Advance booking is recommended.

For more information and tickets, visit www.amberleymuseum.co.uk.

Visitors are encouraged to pre-book tickets in advance to avoid disappointment. For more information and tickets, please visit the Amberley Museum website.