Discover 10 Essential Events to Catch During the S&DR200 Festival

September’s here, and the S&DR200 Festival is hitting full steam! With loads of exciting things happening across the region, we’ve picked 10 standout events you won’t want to miss. Whether you're into history, live shows, or just looking for something fun to do, there’s something for everyone.

Fuelling the Railway Revolution at Mining Art Gallery

Bishop Auckland's Mining Art Gallery presents Fuelling the Railway Revolution, a heartfelt exhibition marking 200 years since the first Stockton and Darlington Railway journey. Running until 21 December it highlights the vital link between mining and railways that powered the Industrial Revolution.

All Change at The Story
This exhibition explores the impact of the Stockton & Darlington Railway over 200 years since 1825. Through letters, diaries, court papers, and day-to-day records, The Story uncovers how the railway shaped the socio-economic fabric of the region and the daily lives of its people. Visit before it ends on 26 January.

Rail Futures at Locomotion
Explore the railway and freight industry by visiting the mobile exhibition train from 18 September to 1 October at Locomotion, and learn how rail transport can tackle climate change and discover job opportunities in the sector.

S&DR200 STEAM to the Future at Hopetown

Explore the history of steam railways and the future of the rail industry at Hopetown’s latest exhibition running until 5 October.   Experience an immersive installation by A.A.Murakami (Studio Swine), inspired by steam power and discover how green technology is driving a new rail revolution and see how our contributors are ensuring the railways' future for the next 200 years.

Dressed for Departure at Bowes Museum
To commemorate the bicentenary of the Stockton and Darlington Railway, The Bowes Museum unveils a new display, exploring the transformational impact of rail on the everyday. Dressed for Departure: Fashion in the Age of Rail, opens on 27 September and is part of the regional S&DR200 celebrations.

S&DR200 Anniversary Journey 1825–2025
A renovated replica of Locomotion No.1, the passenger carriage 'Experiment', and coal waggons will run on parts of the original S&DR line from 26-28 September. Spectators can see the train at specific locations and enjoy special events along the route.

Railway Firsts at Locomotion
Railway Firsts showcases both famous and surprising stories that have shaped the railways and is running until 31 December. The exhibit covers a wide range of firsts, from tunnelling to holidays. As you explore the museum, you'll find pop-ups with unexpected firsts that may surprise you.

Ghost Train at Darlington & Stockton

The S&DR200 Festival's 'Ghost Train' rolls through Darlington and Stockton this September to celebrate 200 years since the first passenger railway journey. Starting with 'Ghost Train: The Departure' in Darlington on Saturday 20 September, you'll see Locomotion No. 1's cogs and wheels move as they did 200 years ago to mark the occasion.

STEAM, WHEELS n’ RAILS at Locomotion Theatre

Presented by S&DR200 Community Players, 'STEAM, WHEELS n' RAILS' is a new period costume drama about the birth of the railways, running from 21-23 September.  This two-hour production features a large volunteer cast and crew from the local area and will be performed for three nights.

S&DR200 Presents WOW North East (Women of the World) International Festival

Experience the unmissable WOW festival talks and performances that celebrate the achievements and stories of women, girls, and non-binary people from the region and beyond at Gala Durham on Friday 17 and Saturday 18 October. Discover the crucial roles women and girls played in the railway revolution 200 years ago and explore how they can lead the next wave of technological advancements, from the space race to greener futures.

Be sure to explore the full S&DR200 programme and take part in the historic celebration happening across the region .