Live Steam Rides

All aboard - live steam rides launching Spring 2026!

This Spring marks a spectacular new chapter in our railway heritage journey.

Following the completion of the mainline connection (estimated at £3 million worth of work!) by our partners The A1 Steam Locomotive Trust, Darlington Railway Preservation Society (DRPS) and North Eastern Locomotive Preservation Group (NELPG) - with help from the British Army and other groups - together we're getting ready to launch live steam rides at Hopetown Darlington, the brand new seasonal experience and exciting addition to the visitor attraction. 

The return journey will traverse the full length of the new heritage railway line starting and ending at Darlington Locomotive Works - via the historic 1861 Shed - and will bring history to life like never before. Passengers will board historic Crimson Lake and Cream coloured Mk 1 railway carriage (BR 25307) - built at Wolverton in 1957 by British Rail - which will be hauled by a variety of locomotives including Willie the Well, Coffee Pot and - further down the line - Tornado.

The new steam ride celebrates the enduring legacy of both the Stockton & Darlington Railway and the bicentenary (S&DR200). It's more than a special event; it's a permanent feature to delight generations to come. 

Whilst we begin work on building a permanent platform at the 1861 Shed, a temporary boarding area for passengers will be located at Darlington Locomotive Works.

Get ready to create unforgettable memories on a journey where heritage and family fun steam ahead together.

Stay tuned as we reveal prices, duration, opening times and how to book tickets.