Arbroath Gong Bound for Bo’ness

We are delighted that the historic Arbroath Signalling Gong will soon join the national collection at the Museum of Scottish Railways, where it will be carefully preserved, interpreted, and made accessible for future generations.

We know the gong holds great affection within the local community, and we fully recognise the important place it has had in Arbroath’s railway story over many years. Our aim is to ensure that this remarkable piece of railway heritage is not only safeguarded but also given the opportunity to be experienced and appreciated by visitors from across Scotland and beyond.

The Museum plans to display the gong on the approach to our main exhibition building, allowing visitors to get up close, learn about its history, and experience operating it for themselves. Restoration and conservation work will be undertaken by volunteers from the Scottish Railway Preservation Society using methods that respect the gong’s historic character and significance.

Its arrival also supports the Museum’s wider ambition to develop as a national centre of signalling knowledge, helping preserve both historic railway artefacts and the traditions and skills associated with them.

We look forward to sharing the story of the Arbroath Gong as part of Scotland’s Railway Experience.