Locomotion: The National Railway Museum at Shildon

Locomotion was the first national museum to be built in the North East and opened in 2004.

At Locomotion there is always something new to see and do. The museum is home to many vehicles from the national railway collection and regularly welcomes guest locomotives and exhibitions. Locomotion explores our railway heritage through interactive displays and offers an exciting events programme for all the family.

Shildon was the home of the first ever steam hauled passenger train which operated during the opening ceremony of the Stockton and Darlington Railway in 1825. Visitors to the museum can see Timothy Hackworth's pioneering locomotive "Sans Pareil", built in 1829 to compete in the Rainhill Trials.

Visitors may also enjoy a ride on our passenger steam train service, on special event days throughout the year - a small charge applies (Please visit www.nrm.org.uk/locomotion for details of our steam timetable).

Additional info

Visitors with Disabilities: Locomotion is fully wheelchair accessible. A bus is available to transport visitors around the site and toilets are available throughout the museum. Please contact Locomotion in advance to reserve a wheelchair.