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2025 marks 200 years of the modern railway, with Shildon at the heart of national celebrations. Locomotion’s Summer Celebration returns from 19 July – 31 August, bringing train rides, railway legends and beach vibes to Shildon, the birthplace of the modern railway.
On selected days, visitors can step back in time with a ride behind a replica of the seminal Stephenson’s Rocket or the iconic Flying Scotsman, travelling along a section of the original Stockton and Darlington Railway line, where the world’s first steam-hauled, fare-paying passenger rail journey took place 200 years ago.
From 28–31 August, Flying Scotsman will be on static display, with free access to explore the cab and marvel up close at the technology that powers this world-famous legend of the track.
Seaside vibes are also on offer, with a pop-up sandy beach to entertain the kids while all the family relax with an ice cream, a stick of Locomotion rock, or churros.
A rolling programme of hands-on, boredom-busting activities is also on offer at the free museum — including the chance to build a LEGO railway, create a railway safety poster, design an engine as a lino print or jigsaw, engineer with Meccano, or help create a giant artwork.
For those seeking an unforgettable encounter with Flying Scotsman, an ‘Ultimate Footplate Experience’ is available on selected days, with limited tickets now on sale.
The six-week event returns after a 2024 debut that attracted almost 50,000 visitors and promises to be a popular draw as the region celebrates its pivotal role in the creation of the modern railway.
The opening day train on the Stockton and Darlington Railway started its journey from Shildon on 27 September 1825. Shildon will take centre stage in 2025’s celebrations as a key partner in the national Railway 200 and regional S&DR200 programmes of events.
Locomotion is home to 100 vehicles — the largest undercover collection of historic locomotives in Europe. Highlights include Locomotion No.1, the 1955 prototype diesel-electric Deltic, and a wide range of historic vehicles built at the legendary, now defunct, Shildon Works.
An iconic 8ft statue of rail pioneer Robert Stephenson was recently installed at the museum, standing proudly alongside the world’s first iron railway bridge, designed by his father, George Stephenson — a striking tribute to the North East’s railway trailblazers.
Find out more about Locomotion's Summer Celebration at their website.
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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.
