The museum is situated at the terminus of the original 1825 Stockton and Darlington Railway.
It houses the original 'Sans Pareil' locomotive, which competed in the Rainhill Trials of 1829.
The collection includes the remains of the Soho Engine Shed, built in 1826.
Shildon is historically significant as the world's first railway town, established to support the Stockton and Darlington line.
The site features a permanent outdoor exhibition area showcasing diverse railway wagons and carriages.
Locomotion holds a substantial collection of rail-related ephemera and industrial machinery.
Locomotion is a railway museum located on the site of the original Stockton and Darlington Railway, the world's first public steam-powered railway. The museum houses a significant collection of historic locomotives and rolling stock from the National Railway Museum's reserve. It features the Timothy Hackworth collection, celebrating the town of Shildon's role as the world's first railway town. Exhibits are housed primarily in the Collection Building, which displays large-scale railway engineering. The museum grounds include historic buildings linked to the early 19th-century railway industry. It acts as an operational site where visitors can often view restoration work in progress. The museum is a partnership between the Science Museum Group and Durham County Council. It serves as a focal point for understanding the industrial heritage of North East England.
The elevated walkway inside the main Collection Building, providing a panoramic view of the locomotives below.
Check the event calendar online, as the museum frequently hosts steam rallies and special locomotive demonstrations.
Wear comfortable footwear as the site spans a large, partially outdoor area with significant walking distances.
Visit the workshop area to see staff and volunteers actively working on the conservation of historic railway equipment.
Assuming all exhibits are indoors; allow time for the outdoor displays which require navigating the site's full footprint.
Generally closed on certain weekdays during off-peak seasons; check the official website for specific monthly variations.
