Hopetown Darlington is pleased to welcome the North Eastern Railway Association with their programme of fascinating talks. These lectures focus on a range of railway topics, and include a Q&A session. March 8th: Repression to Recognition: Walter Hudson and the growth of the Amalgamated Society of Railway Servants from 1867 to 1897 (Ian Mitchell) June 7th: Getting to Wearhead: The S&DR and the NER in Weardale (John Addyman) September 6th: William Bouch of Shildon Locomotive Engineer (Neil Mackay)

Discover our programme of workshops aimed at children aged 610. From taking an in-depth look at a small selection of the 30,000 objects in our collection in The Stores, handling objects like a curator and complete short interactive activities, to finding out the untold history of Darlington, its association with the railways and how we tell this pioneering history, there's plenty of workshops to complete your home educating programme. Workshops are followed by one hours play in Wagon Woods.

We are excited to our first Steampunk Weekend for you to all come and explore! Come along and experience a reimagining of the past, where steam power is the primary energy source, and fantastical inventions await! The Goods Shed is home to the Clocktower Café with delicious cakes, tea and coffee, Hopetown Goods & Gifts and a digital media experience. Explore the North Road Station Museum filled with a variety of Steampunk stalls selling Victoriana, jewellery, clothes, hats and assorted crafts. Table top games Live entertainment and activities Classic vehicle display Tea duelling and Umbrella duelling Photo opportunities throughout the site with onsite photographer Best dressed costume prizes Reallife Marionette Daily promenades along the museum platform and through the Station Garden Engage with the museum’s collections and archive and delve into the history of the Stockton & Darlington Railway. Discover objects and artefacts relating to the development and operation of railways in North East England. Enjoy live music, including Alice Strange (Saturday),Captain of the Lost Waves (Sunday) and the Cogkneys (Sunday).

Welcome to the new Heritage Open weekends at Hopetown Darlington. On the first weekend of every month, we open the doors to Darlington Locomotive Works and the 1861 Shed for you to engage with Darlington’s pioneering and ongoing railway engineering. They’re free to visit and each month will engage with a different railwayrelated theme. The theme for January is BOILERS. Here’s what you can expect at the first Heritage Weekend: Saturday: Family Fun Day Bring the whole family for a lively day of railwaythemed adventures. Set off on a special treasurehunt style trail beginning in North Road Station Museum and guiding young explorers to the Viewing Gallery, into the Darlington Locomotive Workshop and, weather permitting, up to the historic 1861 Shed. Expect plenty of handson fun as you uncover clues and discover the history of locomotives. Join us at 11am or 1pm for Terry’s Talks an engaging, familyfriendly introduction to Darlington’s railway history, featuring the stories of the iconic locomotive Tornado and the Uks newest steam locomotive Prince of Wales. Throughout the day, enjoy interactive demonstrations, including practical activities inspired by boilers and nameplates. Explore the workshops, chat with friendly volunteers, and stop by the merchandise stand for souvenirs to take home. Sunday: Railway Heritage Day Sunday offers a deeper dive for those with a passion for engineering, locomotive history, and heritage railway preservation. Attend Terry’s Talks at 11am or 1pm for a detailed lecture exploring the development of the P2 boiler, with insights into its relationship with the A1 design. Each session includes time for Q&A with the Terry, project manager for the P2 Class No.2007 Prince of Wales. Discover handson demonstrations centred around the newly delivered boiler for the Class P2 and take the opportunity to explore the workshops at your own pace. Knowledgeable volunteers will be on hand throughout the day to discuss current projects and answer questions. Visitors can also browse the merchandise stand, pick up information leaflets, and learn more about how to get involved through volunteer signup opportunities.

Welcome... to Jurassic Town. Get ready to have a TRexcellent time at Hopetown Darlington with some very special visitors! Experience the excitement of meeting (almost) real dinosaurs! RentaDinosaur is a theatre company who puppeteer extraordinarily realisticlooking dinosaurs, and perform enchanting theatrical shows guaranteed to amaze and delight. Watch the interactive, comedic and educational show How To Train Your Dinosaur, meet and greet the walkabout dinosaurs (if you dare!),and enjoy feeding time with the Dino Babies! Prehysteric laughter guaranteed! This event is suitable for the whole family. The day will run as follows: 10.30am Dino Walkabout 11.30am Dino Theatre Show 1.00pm Dino Walkabout 2.00pm Dino Theatre Show

Join Hopetown Darlington's popular Railway Coffee Morning. The coffee morning is a men's group open to former railway employees or those with an association with the railways in Darlington and wider area. It's a chance to reminisce about their time on the railways, talk about what's going on in their lives, and to take part in railwaythemed activities together such as regular visits to the 1861 Shed and Darlington Locomotive Works. The group is aimed at men with a former connection with the railways and who may be experiencing social isolation, depression and anxiety and simply just need someone to talk to and a place to meet their mates and make new friends. Railway Coffee Morning is on the last Thursday between 11am12pm and takes place in Clocktower Cafe in the Goods Shed. You can book a site admission ticket if you wish but there’s no need to, you can just turn up. Hope to see you there! p.s. your first drink every week is on the house.

We're thrilled to welcome the Spectre Detectors for a night of paranormal discovery. North Road Station Museum at night will be the backdrop for an eerie evening with the spirits as the team of Spectre Detectors lead you through a ghosthunting experience. The museum has a history of paranormal stories as a result of reallife events. Paranormal investigators for over 15 years, Elaine Kelly and her team have gathered evidence of hauntings up and down and country and are now heading to our nearly 200 year old museum to discover what lies within. Discover the methods of ghosthunting, including tabletipping, Victorian seance, spirit photography, kinetic SLS camera, automatic writing, spirit box and much more. Spectre Detectors do not use ouji board. This event is for over16s. Please note than spirits and 'spirits' do not mix anyone wishing to participate but are under the influence of drugs or alcohol will be asked to leave and no refund given.

Hopetown Darlington presents Comic Con in collaboration with Cute Fox Events. Hopetown comic con promises to be a great value day out for all the family offering attractions such as photo opportunities, walkabout characters, traders and lots more – including celebrity guest appearances. Confirmed guests include Phil Fletcher and Hacker T Dog from CBBC, and Saracen from the original Gladiators TV series. Dene Michael, former singer of the band Black Lace will be joining us at Hopetown Comic Con in February! More names will be confirmed soon! Attractions at Comic Con include walkabout characters, Tyne Tees Ghostbusters, R2D2, Dalek Dominic, Star Warsthemed North East Legion and their green screen photo opportunity, face painting, Ray Philips (sculptor and modeller), local comic artists Dan Walls and Gary Whitlock, L&P Paranormal investigators and a cosplay competition. The star attraction will be the DeLorean DMC car. Made famous by the Back To The Future filmseries, sit in the car for the ultimate photo opportunity. "Great Scott!" Come dressed up! We want to see as many of you in your awesome outfits and costumes as possible.

All aboard for a wonderfully heart‑warming Summer Family Fun Day out! This July, Hopetown Darlington invites you to celebrate the start of the school holidays with a meet and greet with Britain’s favourite bear – Paddington™! Bring the whole family for a day packed with pawsome activities from charming photo opportunities to outdoor screenings of Paddington 2 on our Screen on the Green, and of course the Meet and Greet with Paddington. The fun never stops. Whether you’re young, old, or simply fond of Britain’s most beloved bear in his blue duffle coat, this family fun day promises a spectacular celebration filled with laughter and adventure. WHAT’S ON: Meet & greet with Paddington™ Screen on the green – outdoor cinema Tornado in the spotlight Creative workshop Picnic spots aplenty

Pop on down to Hopetown Darlington's Dementia Café Our Dementia Café is a safe and welcoming space for those living with dementia, their friends and family, and anybody who has been impacted by dementia to have a cup of tea and chat with others who understand. The café gives the perfect opportunity to chat (even if that's about a dementia diagnosis and what that means for the future),take part in mindful activities, keep active, make new friends and feel more confident. There'll be crafts and games too.

A new destination. A global adventure. One unforgettable day. Darlington’s muchloved Community Carnival arrives at Hopetown Darlington for the very first time and it’s set to be an epic adventure! Inspired by Around the World in 80 Days and rooted in Darlington’s powerful railway heritage, this vibrant celebration invites you to travel across continents through colour, creativity, music and performance, all from Hopetown’s historic Foundry Green. What to expect at this year’s Carnival: Live music and performances across multiple stages. Community showcases, family activities and games. Carnival rides. Tipples for the adults. An ‘Around the World in 80 Days’ display created local schools and community groups. An exhibition showcasing the life of Arthur Wharton, Darlington’s sporting legend. A miniexhibition on the history of Darlington Carnival. Brilliant traders, food, drink and carnival atmosphere. Announcements on performers (inc. performance times) and a schedule of the day will be available on the DARLINGTON COMMUNITY CARNIVAL FACEBOOK PAGE [https://www.facebook.com/darlingtoncommunitycarnival]. The famous Carnival Parade will wind its way from North Lodge Park before steaming into Hopetown, and the parade is free for everyone to watch – you do not need a ticket for the parade. THE PARADE IS DUE TO ARRIVE AT HOPETOWN DARLINGTON AT 11.30AM. Darlington Carnival also proudly supports the Arthur Wharton Foundation, celebrating equality, inclusion and Darlington’s sporting heritage that links closely with the railways. And finally just so you know yes, this is the very Carnival that formerly called Stanhope Park its home. The Carnival has moved to Hopetown and marks an exciting new chapter in the Carnival’s long, proud history. Photo image credit Blench Photography. Subject to copyright.

Step into the remarkable story of Arthur Wharton – a true trailblazer of british sport Born in the Gold Coast (modernday Ghana) in 1865 and widely recognised as both the world’s first professional black footballer and the world's first recorded fastest man, Wharton arrived in Britain and quickly made his mark as an exceptional athlete. A man of extraordinary speed and strength, he first rose to prominence as a sprinter, setting records in athletics before turning his talents to the football field, alongside cricket and rugby. In an era when opportunities were limited and barriers were high, Wharton carved out a place in sporting history. His professional sporting roots began in Darlington before playing for clubs including Preston North End, Rotherham Town and Sheffield United, competing at the highest levels of the early professional game. His powerful presence, athleticism, and fearless style earned him widespread admiration, yet his pioneering role has only received the recognition it deserves in recent years. But Wharton’s story is not just one of sporting achievement. Like many athletes of his time, he balanced his career with working life, and his journey connects closely with the industrial and railway heritage of Britain. The growth of organised sport in the late 19th century was deeply rooted in working communities and railway networks, which carried teams and supporters across the country, helping football flourish into a national passion. This exhibition explores: • Wharton’s groundbreaking sporting career • The social and cultural challenges he overcame • The vital links between sport, industry, and the railways Through photographs, stories, and historical context, discover how Arthur Wharton’s legacy helped shape modern sport, and how the railways played a part in connecting communities, teams, and traditions. Test your speed on our timed racetrack and try the interactive ball wall – free additions for you to enjoy inspired by Wharton’s athleticism and sporting legacy. Join us in celebrating a pioneer whose impact still resonates today. Delivered in partnership with the Arthur Wharton Foundation and supported using public funding by the National Lottery through Arts Council England.

All aboard for a sidesplitting farcical ride! It's the 1980s. The Leeds sleeper train is pulling out of Kings Cross and one very unfortunate junior minister is on board, clutching his resignation speech with absolutely no idea that his career is about to go spectacularly off the rails. Travelling with the hapless minister is his domineering wife, a furious rail executive, a lovesick catering manager, a flamboyant train manager and a Yorkshire honeymooning couple three whiskies in. A reckless latenight fling with a conductor triggers a hilarious chain of mistaken identities, slamming doors, faked deaths and frantic coverups that spiral wildly out of control. Explosive, outrageous and silly, Off and On is a highspeed comedy that sends classic farce hurtling into the modern age. Off and On is a brandnew farce by Ben Cawood, brought to life by Right Track Theatre a company of early career artists celebrating the glorious chaos of farce with a fresh take. Get your tickets, it's going to be a bumpy ride! Running time: Approx. 85 minutes Age Guidance: 12+ for best enjoyment Contains mild innuendo. PLEASE NOTE, THIS IS A SEATED OUTDOOR PERFORMANCE. IT WILL BE COVERED IN THE CASE OF RAIN, BUT PLEASE DRESS WARMLY IN INCLEMENT WEATHER!

Join us at Hopetown Darlington for a special first as we host our very first outdoor cinema evening! And it’s one you won’t want to miss. To mark the 50th anniversary of Aardman, we’re bringing Wallace & Gromit to the tracks. Enjoy a screening of Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl, the latest featurelength adventure involving the iconic pair, in a relaxed openair setting that’s perfect for families. It’s the ideal way to spend a summer evening with plenty of charm, humour and just a hint of mischief from a certain penguin. This is your ticket to unwind. Bring along picnic blankets or camping chairs, settle in on Foundry Green and make the most of the evening. You’re welcome to bring your own food and drink, or you can pick up something tasty from our onsite kiosk. Make sure to read the below before booking: WHAT TIME DOES IT START? We'll open our doors at 5pm and the film will begin at 6pm sharp! Runtime is one hour and fifteen minutes, so you will start to leave the site from 7.15pm. CAN I BRING MY OWN FOOD AND DRINK? Of course, feel free to bring your own picnic there will be refreshments on sale from the Kiosk as well! WHAT HAPPENS IF IT RAINS? In the event of a little drizzle the show will go on as scheduled! Bring your raincoats and embrace the great British summer weather! If, however, the weather looks particularly severe, you will be notified via text message by 1pm on the day if cancellation is necessary. This is the only instance in which refunds will be issued. CAN I SMOKE? We are a smokefree and vapefree site. If you want to light up, you will need to completely leave the site. WILL THERE BE TOILETS? There are toilet facilities located by the Kiosk. CAN I BRING MY DOG? Wellbehaved dogs may attend providing they are closely supervised and on a lead at all times. We ask that dogs who may bark or be upset by loud noises or sudden movements are left at home for evening. IS SEATING AVAILABLE? Picnic benches are available on a firstcome firstserved basis. Otherwise visitors are welcome to bring their own blankets and camping chairs. We ask that those guests setting up camping chairs are considerate of other visitors. IS THIS EVENT ACCESSIBLE? This event will be on Foundry Green which is a grassed area. There will be accessible matting for wheelchair access, and accessible toilet facilities. The film will not be shown with BSL interpretation, audio description or subtitles. WHERE CAN I PARK? Please use our John Street Carpark (DL1 1LG),which is just a short walk to our entrance (fully signposted). Parking charges apply until 6pm. There is limited Blue Badge parking available on McNay Street (DL3 6SW) directly in front of the entrace. IS IT CHILDFRIENDLY? Absolutely, this is a family experience and we welcome children of all ages! This film is certified U, please be mindful that the film contains some very mild peril and a rather menacing penguin. Ready? Climb aboard for an evening of film, fresh air and family time at Hopetown Darlington.

This summer, as the excitement of the World Cup builds around the globe, GAME ON! at Hopetown Darlington brings the action closer to home with a programme of energetic, outdoor sports sessions for children and families. Set in a place where the railways once transformed how people connected with sport, these activities celebrate the same spirit of teamwork, movement and shared experience. Inspired by the legacy of Arthur Wharton Darlington’s sporting pioneer and the world’s first professional Black footballer GAME ON! encourages young people to get involved, try new activities and build confidence through sport. His story continues to show how determination and talent can open doors and inspire future generations. Across the summer holidays, Football Fun, Cricket Champions and MultiSports Explorers sessions offer something for everyone, helping children stay active, develop new skills and enjoy time outdoors. More than just play, these sessions connect sport with local heritage, showing how Darlington helped shape the games we know today while supporting healthy, active lifestyles. Game on! With Darlington Football Club Foundation All ages and abilities are welcome! Children will be split into groups with other children of similar age.

Step aboard a fascinating journey through time and innovation, as this brand-new talk at Hopetown Darlington reveals how electricity revolutionised the railways. From the earliest experiments to today’s cutting-edge Azuma trains, discover the breakthroughs that powered a transport transformation. Explore the stories of the visionary engineers who drove progress, including the remarkable Sir Vincent Raven. Learn how his pioneering work to electrify the Shildon to Middlesbrough line helped shape the modern railway network we rely on today. Delivered by Colin Hatton a retired mechanical engineer with a lifelong passion for railway history this talk brings decades of knowledge and insight to life. Having studied engineering in the late 1950s and early 1960s, Colin has spent years researching and writing about the railways, contributing articles and serving as a contributing editor for Now and Then magazine, including work during the S&DR bicentenary. Whether you’re a railway enthusiast or simply curious about the power behind Britain’s rail network, this is a talk not to be missed.

Witness majestic birds of prey including kestrels, kites and hawks in a safe, managed and controlled environment with professional bird keepers and trainers. Meet these fascinating birds over the course of the day and learn about their habits, habitats, food chains, life cycles and conservation. Stick around long enough and you'll also get to see a majestic flying demonstration at 4pm. All ticket holders for the workshops are welcome to attend the flying show. These workshops are aimed at children aged 5+, but younger children are welcome to participate providing their parent/carer is confident they can be calm and gentle around animals. All children can get involved when the birds are flying. Please be assured that the welfare of the birds always comes first.

Can you believe it? We're turning TWO this summer! In just two years, we’ve packed in incredible heritage, unforgettable events and plenty of surprises. From marking the 200th anniversary of the first passenger railway journey to welcoming a royal visit, winning 10 major awards, and hosting over 360,000 visitors, it’s been quite a journey! Now it’s time to celebrate the start of our THIRD year in style. Join us for a day full of fun, laughter and hands-on activities for all ages. What’s On: - Climbing Wall - Bubbleologist - Miniature Train Rides (additional small charge prices TBC) So come on down, grab some cake and join in the party.

Step back in time to 1925 for an unforgettable interactive murder mystery aboard the golden age of the railway. Secrets lurk in the station shadows, tensions rise among passengers and staff, and a shocking crime threatens to derail the evening. As the mystery unfolds, guests will have the rare opportunity to explore Hopetown after hours, searching for clues and interrogating suspicious characters hidden throughout the museum’s atmospheric railway buildings and exhibits. Question suspects, uncover secrets and piece together the evidence in this immersive night of suspense, scandal and vintage railway glamour. Dress in your 1920s finest, bring your sense of adventure and prepare for an evening of intrigue and entertainment! Your evening will begin in the Goods Shed, and your ticket includes drinks and canapes.