Hopetown Darlington
Assessed by
Assessor comments
"Close to the place where modern rail transport began in 1825."
Overview
Hopetown Darlington is a 7.5-acre visitor attraction where every building has a unique story to tell. In 1825, Locomotion No. 1 became the first steam locomotive to haul a passenger-carrying train on a public railway - the Stockton and Darlington Railway. Entry to the attraction is through the 1833 Goods Shed, which features an artisan café, coal themed shop and a new railway-themed digital media experience. Visit North Road Station Museum to discover Darlington’s story of rail engineering, ideas and invention. In the 1853 Carriage Works, you'll find the Exhibition Hall and The Stores, where you can find over 30,000 railway heritage items on permanent display. In the brand-new, purpose-built Darlington Locomotive Works you'll have the chance to view live engineering in action. Outside, guests can enjoy Wagon Woods, a railway-themed adventure play park that builds on the story of the Stockton & Darlington Railway. Foundry Green also hosts a range of festivals and events for guests.
Ratings & awards
VisitEngland Quality Assessed
Visitor Ready
Provides a warm welcome
Features
- Children
- Suitable for children of all ages
- Facilities
- Parking onsite
- Parking nearby
- Cafe
About the area
County Durham reaches halfway across England, from the North Pennines in the west, to the sea in the east. Much of it is very sparsely inhabited, and is naturally beautiful; a mix of rolling hills, monumental valleys, lush farmland and unforgiving moors.
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