Accessibility

Hopetown Darlington is a large open air visitor attraction with three early railway heritage buildings, and a new building, for visitor to enjoy.

We have worked with AccessAble so you can find out about our facilities before you visit. AccessAble’s surveyors assessed our venue to create a Detailed Access Guide. Check out the Detailed Access Guide here.

Level access

Where there are stairs there is also a level access ramp or a lift for wheelchair users or those who use mobility scooters.

The main entrance to Hopetown Darlington sits upon a bank. There is a ramp leading up to the entrance from the street below.

Car Parking

Accessible parking is located in Skerne Bridge Car Park and on McNay Street. From here you can take the level access ramp up to the Goods Shed entrance.

Places to Sit

There are benches inside North Road Station Museum. There are seated picnic areas located outside of Wagon Woods. There are accessible picnic benches in the Goods Yard. The café in the Goods Shed has plenty of seating.

Toilets

Accessible toilets are located within the Goods Shed, North Road Station Museum, the Carriage Works and near to The Kiosk.

Changing Places Toilet

There is a Changing Places toilet located within North Road Station Museum.

Assistance Animals

Guide and assistance dogs – including assistance dogs in training – are welcome everywhere at Hopetown Darlington. Water bowls for dogs are available in the café and on Foundry Green.

Blind or visually impaired

Large print text is available on request. Please speak to a member of the Welcome Team on arrival for more information.

D/deaf or have hearing loss/hearing impairment

Hearing loops are fitted at the Goods Shed entrance and the reception desk in the Carriage Works.

Information in other formats

Hopetown Darlington can provide information in other formats on request. Please speak to a member of the on-site team or get in touch with us.

Essential Companions/carers

If you require an essential companion or carer, they can visit the paid-for elements at Hopetown Darlington free of charge. Choose 'essential companion' from the drop-down menu when booking your tickets. 

Sunflower Lanyard Scheme

We are part of the Sunflower Lanyard Scheme. The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower lanyard or pin badge is a simple tool for you to voluntarily share that you have a disability or condition that may not be immediately apparent – and that you may need a helping hand, understanding, or more time to explore Hopetown Darlington. If you need any assistance, please speak to a member of the Welcome Team.

Baby Feeding and Breastfeeding

Hopetown Darlington is part of the BfN Breastfeeding Friendly scheme. You are welcome to breastfeed anywhere on site. There is a baby feeding room located within North Road Station Museum if you wish to breastfeed in private. Baby bottles can be heated in the Clocktower Café. 

Quiet Times

You may prefer to visit when we are less busy. Our quietest times are weekday afternoons during term time. If you need any help from our team, or a quiet space while you are visiting, please just let us know. 

Communicate in Print

Communicate in print and widget symbols can be found across all of our displays.

Package for Sandy

If you or someone with you needs emergency supply of sanitary products, please head to the Welcome Desk in the Goods Shed and ask a member of the team for a 'Package for Sandy'. You will receive a discreet envelope with emergency sanitary products, no questions asked.