May half term activities Category: Holiday programme 24 May – 1 June 2025 This May half term holiday, we’re looking back at railways past and inviting visitors to join in with some themed, free family learning activities. Half term
Railways: Past Category: Event 24 May – 1 June 2025 We’re looking back at railways past by bringing together a display of heritage steam locomotives. This is your chance to take a close up look at these amazing machines, and learn more about their history. Half term
The Art of Locomotion Category: Exhibition 16 May – 8 June 2025 Discover 200 years of railway history—Brought to life by three renowned guild artists. See what’s on
An Afternoon with Simon Bradley Category: Talk 21 June 2025 Join Simon Bradley as he introduces his new book, Bradley's Railway Guide. Book now
Railway Modelling Weekend Category: Event 28 – 29 June 2025 Join us for a weekend of railway modelling, in association with Locomotion Models. Book now
The railway boy trail Category: Trail Step into the shoes of Peter the Railway Boy and journey through Shildon’s rich railway past. Devised by Seen and Heard, this trail brings to life one of the world’s first railway towns. Discover history through a child’s eyes! New
Robert Stephenson bronze statue Category: Star object On display now This Grade II-listed bronze statue makes its debut in the North East to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the Stockton and Darlington Railway. New
Railway Firsts Category: Exhibition February 2025 – January 2026 Railway Firsts highlights a collection of both well-known and unexpected stories that have shaped the railways and our history.
Inspiration—Railway 200 Exhibition Train Category: Exhibition 20 September – 1 October 2025 See the unique new exhibition train Inspiration on its visit to our museum as part of Railway 200.
APT-E: Tilting Tech Fest Category: Star object On display Pioneering rail’s future with sleek design and revolutionary tilting technology, this experiment pushed boundaries for high-speed travel.
Gaunless Bridge Category: Star object On display Behold the green magnificence of this George Stephenson design from 1823, the very first railway bridge to use an iron truss.
Black Five Cab access Category: Activity Daily Get a driver’s-eye view from the cab of one of our most spectacular locomotives.
New Hall Category: Permanent gallery Open With a design inspired by an engine shed, New Hall tells the story of the North East’s role in early railway development with six themed roads of railway vehicles.