ANNIVERSARY JOURNEY

The Anniversary Journey is an opportunity for visitors to witness a re-enactment of the first journey on the Stockton and Darlington Railway aboard Locomotion No. 1. The newly renovated replica of this legendary engine, the passenger carriage Experiment, and coal waggons will run on sections of the original S&DR line, including Skerne Bridge.

The inaugural journey of Locomotion No. 1 on the S&DR in 1825 represented a major turning point in history, and two hundred years later, visitors will be able to take part in S&DR200's special festivities marking this extraordinary milestone.

On Saturday 27 September, the replica Locomotion  No. 1 will depart from Hopetown Darlington to cross the Skerne Bridge, before returning to Hopetown.

Unfortunately no - the passenger capacity is extremely limited and for safety reasons those traveling on the train will be trained as crew.

Drones must not be flown over the event space due to the presence of official drones, police drones, rail infrastructure and crowds. All drone flights must be conducted with the parameters set by The Civil Aviation Authority.

It is likely that photography, audio, and video recording will occur.

It is anticipated that the Anniversary Journey will still go ahead unless the weather makes it unsafe to proceed. In this instance, messages will be posted on our website and on our social media channels. Ticket holders will also receive an email/text message alert.

The viewing area at Hopetown Darlington is open from 10am, and we advise being in position at 11:30am to view the replica Locomotion No. 1 pass on the Skerne Bridge.

At Hopetown Darlington, tickets will be available to view the STEAM to the Future exhibition as well as Titans of Steam. Limited tickets will be bookable for morning or afternoon visits on September 27.

Darlington town centre market square will be hosting a fringe event with a live stream of the Locomotion No. 1, entertainment and town centre venues are looking forward to welcoming you.

In Darlington, your event ticket covers access to view the Replica Locomotion No. 1 from Skerne Bridge. However, if you wish to visit Hopetown Darlington, the STEAM to the Future exhibition, or Titans of Steam, separate tickets are required. Site admission, STEAM to the Future, and entrance to Steam to the Future are free.

Please contact Hopetown Darlington via email: hopetown@darlington.gov.uk

Please email Hopetown Darlington for further information in regards to group bookings: hopetown@darlington.gov.uk

We strongly advise that you make arrangements to car share, travel by public transport, or arrive on foot. Parking around the venue is extremely limited. A Park and Ride service will also be available, which you can book here.

There may be some disruption during the period around the Replica Locomotion No. 1's departure, so please check www.nationalrail.co.uk for the latest information and tickets.

There are regular services running in Darlington on the event day but there may be some disruption around road closures so please check with your bus provider when making plans to travel. 

Road closures will be in place around the venues as part of our safety management plan. Diversion signs will be in place. Restrictions will be lifted as soon as possible after the events but public safety remains our priority. Local residents with tickets are advised to walk. 

Toilets

Portable and accessible toilets will be available at the main viewing areas.

Seating

Due to the space restrictions, fixed seating is unable to be provided at any of the viewing locations.

Catering

Catering will be available at Hopetown Darlington on the Skerne Bridge viewing site. There mare many local restaurants and cafes in Darlington. 

Please note, there will be no alcohol permitted at this event.

Bags and Picnics

Bags will be subject to searches. You are welcome to bring a snack, but you should not include any sharp objects or glass.

Please note, this is a standing only viewing location.

We take the safety and security of our visitors very seriously. On arrival, you will need to pass through bag and ticket checks.

Our check team are there for your safety. Please cooperate fully with all security checks and support these vital members of our team as they carry out important work. All entry constitudes consent to search.

Bags are allowed, provided their dimensions do not exceed 40cm x 30cm x 20cm. We cannot allow cold boxes and suitcases. As there are no Left Luggage facilities in the grounds (except for pushchairs and walking aids), we reserve the right to confiscate any forbidden item at security check. Regretfully, confiscated items cannot be returned on exit.

Dress for the weather: in the event of rain, the performance will go on! 

Don't forget to check the forecast before you come. This is a live performance in the open air, so please come appropriately dressed for all weathers including comfortable footwear you are happy to walk in.  

Make sure you have located all your tickets and prepare them to get fast access! 

Tickets can be printed out or shown on your phone. 

Please prepare your event tickets before your reach our turnstiles. If you do lose or forget your ticket please speak to a member of staff. 

Because of the large crowds expected and occasional loud noises emitted from Locomotion No 1, entrance into the event area is restricted to assistance dogs only. 

For those able to make their way on foot or via public transport, live streaming of the journey of Locomotion No. 1 on 27 September will be viewable at the market square in Darlington.