Hopetown Darlington
About This Museum
People come to Hopetown not just to see old trains, but to stand in the very spot where the railway revolution began. It’s tucked away on a side street, and stepping into the restored 19th-century workshops feels like walking straight into a different era. You can get up close to colossal, beautifully maintained steam engines, some of which you can even see being worked on. It’s a wonderfully hands-on and authentic experience that makes history feel thrillingly immediate.
Collection Highlights
The star of the show is Locomotion No. 1, the engine that pulled the world's first public passenger train. You'll also find a stunning collection of Victorian-era engines and rolling stock, plus all the fascinating tools and machinery from the original workshop.
Visitor Information
It's easy to find on McNay Street in Darlington. Check their website for opening times as they can vary, and definitely allow a couple of hours – there's so much to take in!
Architecture & Building
The museum is housed in the original, beautifully preserved stone and brick railway buildings from the 1800s, complete with giant arched doorways and the original workshop floors.
Contact & Location
Address: McNay Street, Hopetown, Darlington, Tees Valley, England, DL3 6TG, United Kingdom
Phone: +44 1325 405060
Website: Visit Website
