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Following a major redevelopment, Preston Park will open its new exhibition space with Tracks of Change, a series of exhibitions exploring the impact and legacy of the Stockton & Darlington Railway. The transformation of Preston Park is being funded after the Council secured £20 million of funding for work in Yarm and Eaglescliffe from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.
Perfume by Yann Nguema - The internationally renowned, contemporary, visual artist Yann Nguema is working on an exciting installation for the new space at Preston Park. Look out for more details about this major commission, which will take an immersive look at scent and is inspired by the seed distribution and pollination when trains travel through the countryside. Perfume is provisionally scheduled for the second half of the S&DR200 Festival.
Corridors by Rebecca Louise Law - A stunning new installation by internationally acclaimed artist Rebecca Louise Law. Delicately suspended from the ceiling, hundreds of locally grown flowers create a beautiful and immersive display celebrating the vital role that railways play in connecting habitats across our countryside. Visitors are invited to take a moment to escape in this one-of-a-kind floral garden that appears to hover in mid-air, and this will be built by the artist and community groups which is part of Rebecca's practice. This project will take place in partnership with the Preston Park Garden Team and the Biodiversity Team at Network Rail.
Artist Rebecca Louise Law is known for creating immersive installations with preserved natural materials. Her work explores the complexity of our human connection to the natural world with the intent to inspire a deeper appreciation for the Earth and all it provides. Two aspects are at the centre of her artistic practice: the conscious and sustainable use of natural resources and the bringing together of people from a variety of backgrounds.
All aboard - A new interactive exhibition specially created for children. Little engineers will be able to get hands on with wheels to turn, coal to shovel and pistons to pump in a giant replica train and themed play zones, and families will be able to take part in a journey of discovery through play to understand the important story of the Stockton and Darlington Railway.
Gateway to the World - A collection of nationally significant paintings will go on display together for the first time at Preston Park. This powerful exhibition, set to open in the autumn, will highlight the important role that the birth of the railway played in creating tourism through day trips and travel opportunities for all, regardless of class.
Delivered by Darlington Borough Council, Durham County Council & Stockton Borough
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S&DR200 FestivalThe 27 September 2025 marks the 200th anniversary of the opening of the Stockton and Darlington Railway (S&DR), which gave birth to the modern railway. To celebrate this landmark anniversary, the nine-month S&DR200 Festival will take place across Durham and Tees Valley from March to November 2025.
Find out what’s happening this week across the Culture County. From festivals and exhibitions, to sport and theatre, you’re certain to have an eventful time in Durham.
