About
Locomotion: The National Railway Museum at Shildon is one of the most significant railway heritage sites in the world, located in the town that stands at the very birthplace of the modern railway. When the Stockton and Darlington Railway opened on 27 September 1825 — the world's first public steam-hauled railway — Shildon was its starting point. The locomotive that pulled the inaugural train, Locomotion No. 1, is one of the most historically important objects in the entire history of transport, and it is preserved here for visitors to see.
Opened in 2004 as part of the Science Museum Group's National Railway Museum network, Locomotion combines a purpose-built collection building with a large outdoor display area where dozens of historic locomotives and rolling stock are displayed under cover. The sheer scale and quality of the collection is breathtaking — vehicles range from early Victorian carriages to powerful twentieth-century express locomotives, telling the complete story of how Britain's railways developed from their hesitant beginnings into the sophisticated national network that transformed everyday life.
The museum occupies the site of Timothy Hackworth's former workshops, and Hackworth himself — one of the most important early locomotive engineers, who worked alongside George Stephenson — is celebrated throughout. His home, Soho Cottage, stands adjacent to the museum, and visitors can explore the story of this pioneering engineer who played a crucial role in making the Stockton and Darlington Railway a success.
One of the great strengths of Locomotion is its accessibility. Admission is free, making it one of the most generously open museums in the country. Families with children, railway enthusiasts, and anyone curious about the origins of the modern world will find hours of absorbing content here. Interactive exhibits alongside the authentic historic vehicles ensure that younger visitors are fully engaged, while the depth and authenticity of the collection satisfies even the most knowledgeable enthusiast.
Shildon itself is a community that lives and breathes railway history. The opening of the museum in 2004 brought significant regeneration to this former wagon-works town, and the museum has become a focal point for the entire region's railway heritage, which is celebrated through major events and festivals linked to the 200th anniversary of the railways.
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Plan Your Visit
⏱️ Recommended Visit Duration
📅 Best Times to Visit
💡 Visitor Tips
- Arrive early on weekends and school holidays as the free admission makes this a popular family destination — parking can fill up by late morning
- Do not miss Locomotion No. 1 — stand next to it and try to comprehend that this small machine changed the entire world in 1825
- Check the website before visiting to see what vehicles are currently on display, as the collection is regularly rotated from the national collection in York
- The outdoor display area is worth exploring in fine weather — the scale of the locomotives is astonishing when viewed up close
- Timothy Hackworth's cottage (Soho Cottage) is a highlight that many visitors rush past — allow time to explore this fascinating building
- The café is popular at lunchtime — consider arriving before noon or after 14:00 for a shorter queue
- Family activity trails and interactive exhibits throughout the museum make this an excellent destination for children aged 5 and above
- Combine your visit with Auckland Castle in Bishop Auckland (5 miles) for a full day of County Durham heritage
Highlights
Discover the unique exhibits and collections at this museum.
Collections
Part of the Science Museum Group's National Railway Museum collection. Contains nationally significant railway vehicles including Locomotion No. 1 (world's first steam passenger locomotive), a range of historic locomotives and rolling stock from across two centuries, and collections relating to Timothy Hackworth and the Stockton and Darlington Railway.
The Story of Locomotion
The core exhibition tracing the history of the Stockton and Darlington Railway from its conception by Edward Pease and George Stephenson to its opening in 1825 and subsequent development. Featuring Locomotion No. 1 as its centrepiece.
National Collection Vehicles
Rotating displays of locomotives and rolling stock from the Science Museum Group's national railway collection, representing two centuries of British railway history and engineering achievement.
Timothy Hackworth: Railway Pioneer
Exhibition celebrating Timothy Hackworth's life and work, including displays in and around Soho Cottage, his former home adjacent to the museum, and the workshop buildings he occupied.
Outdoor Display Area
Large covered outdoor area displaying additional vehicles from the national collection, including locomotives too large for the indoor galleries. Particularly popular with families and children.
Themes
Time Periods
Current Exhibitions
No current exhibitions. Please check the museum website for updates.