In 1825, a railway journey changed the world forever. Locomotion No.1 became the first steam locomotive to haul a passenger-carrying train on a public railway – the Stockton and Darlington Railway.
Darlington changed the world as a pioneer of the modern railway. Hopetown Darlington engages and inspires the innovators of the future by connecting them with our pioneering railway heritage.
Hopetown Darlington is a visitor attraction where every building has a unique story to tell.
Enter through the 1833 Goods Shed where there’s now an artisan café, coal themed shop and a new railway-themed digital media experience. Visit North Road Station Museum, housed within an 1842 Victorian railway station, to discover Darlington’s story of rail engineering, ideas and invention. In the 1853 Carriage Works, you’ll find the Exhibition Hall, featuring special exhibitions, and The Stores, where you can explore our archive and 30,000 railway artefacts on permanent display.
Jump on Experiment! the North East’s only permanent immersive experience ride. Join Georgie and Stephen on a vivid journey through passenger rail travel, travelling across continents and through time – from 1825 to the present day and into the future!
In the brand-new, purpose-built Darlington Locomotive Works (home to the A1 Steam Locomotive Trust) you’ll have the chance to view live engineering in action by watching the construction of the UK’s newest steam locomotive, the P2 Class No.2007 Prince of Wales.
Outside, there’s Wagon Woods, a railway-themed adventure play park that builds on the story of the Stockton & Darlington Railway. On Foundry Green you’ll be able to enjoy festivals and events, and even bring your dog for a walk.
Welcome to Hopetown Darlington, Darlington’s award-winning railway-themed visitor attraction.
Admission is free. Some exhibitions, events and activities carry a separate charge. Booking is recommended.
