What’s on

From steam spectaculars to exciting learning activities, Locomotion has something for everyone.

Keep an eye on this page and our social media channels for more information.

For a snapshot of museum highlights, download our Must See booklet.

All events, exhibitions, activities and galleries

Friends and Rivals

Exhibition

Rocket. Locomotion. Sans Pareil. Three of the most significant locomotives in railway history, now under one roof.

Hornby Railway Collectors’ Association Exhibition

Exhibition

13–14 May 2023

See incredible model railway layouts and brilliant models in action in this exhibition of vintage Hornby products and more.

New

Sensational Science

Half term

Saturday 27 May – Sunday 4 June 2023

Enjoy a science-packed day out for May half term.

Half term

Highland Railway: Lines and Stations

Talk

Saturday 27 May 2023

Ken Hodgson delves into the lines and stations of the Highland Railway from 1855-1863.

Innovation Platform

Exhibition

11 January 2023 – December 2024

Emerging ideas and extraordinary achievements from across the rail industry.

Now open

Meccano Magic 2023

Event

10–11 June 2023

See construction brought to life and get hands-on with Meccano at this fantastic free event.

Outdoor play area

Museum space

Open

Blow off some steam in our brand-new play area.

Now open

Shildon Rail Trails

Walk

Railway history is all around us—take a walk to find out more.

Flying Scotsman Centenary Festival

Special event

16 December 2023 – 2 January 2024

A celebration packed full of fun and inspiring experiences for everyone.

Locos in the collection building at Locomotion

Main Hall

Permanent gallery

Open

Get up close to dozens of legendary locomotives from throughout railway history.

Children holding flags during an activity

Little Locos

Event

Selected dates

A special session for our visitors aged 5 and under.

Early Birds

Accessible event

Selected dates

A special early-morning session for visitors with sensory needs who wish to explore the museum in a quieter environment.

View the exhibition

Railway Heroes

A collection of interviews with railway workers who have helped get key workers to and from their jobs and given back to their communities—and country—during the COVID-19 pandemic.

All events, exhibitions, activities and galleries

Friends and Rivals

Hornby Railway Collectors’ Association Exhibition

Sensational Science

Highland Railway: Lines and Stations

Innovation Platform

Meccano Magic 2023

Outdoor play area

Shildon Rail Trails

Flying Scotsman Centenary Festival

Main Hall

Little Locos

Early Birds

Railway Heroes

Part of the Science Museum Group