National Railway Heritage Award Win

Hopetown Darlington has been honoured with the National Railway Heritage Award (NRHA) Chairman’s Special Award at the 2025 National Railway Heritage Awards, recognising the outstanding preservation and revitalisation of three of Darlington’s most historic railway buildings.

The National Railway Heritage Awards is an annual celebration to recognise, acknowledge and reward, for the public benefit, the very best in re-use, restoration and conservation of Britain’s historic railway infrastructure.

The Chairman’s Special Award was presented by Peter Lord Hendy of Richmond Hill, Minister of State for Rail, during the ceremony in central London celebrating exceptional achievements in railway heritage across the UK.

This prestigious national award reflects the extensive work undertaken as part of the £37 million transformation of heritage railway buildings and historic railway land into a 7.5-acre, railway-themed visitor attraction in the heart of Darlington.

The project has breathed new life into one of the town’s most significant historic sites, safeguarding its pioneering railway heritage while creating an inspiring and engaging destination for future generations.

Councillor Libby McCollom, Cabinet Member for Local Services at Darlington Borough Council, said: “Receiving the NRHA Chairman’s Special Award is a tremendous honour for everyone involved in Hopetown Darlington from its earliest stages. We have always believed this site is one of Darlington’s greatest assets. To see this recognised by the National Railway Heritage Awards is incredibly rewarding.”

“This accolade reinforces our commitment to preserving Darlington’s rich railway history while shaping a vibrant cultural destination that will continue to inspire residents and visitors for years to come.”

Mike Crawshaw, Head of Heritage and Culture at Darlington Borough Council, said: “We are immensely proud to receive this award. Hopetown Darlington represents the very best of our town’s spirit. Preserving these remarkable buildings is not just about safeguarding our past; it’s about celebrating what makes Darlington unique. This recognition puts our town and our attraction firmly on the national stage and is a testament to the dedication, passion, and hard work of everyone involved in the project from the very beginning.”

This latest award adds to a growing list of achievements for Hopetown Darlington, which also recently received a VisitEngland Welcome Accolade for delivering an exceptional visitor experience.

The awarded plaque will be unveiled during a ceremony at Hopetown Darlington in January 2026.