Museum mapLocomotion

1. Welcome

Timothy Hackworth’s original Sans Pareil is on display in our Welcome building. This locomotive was built to compete in the famous Rainhill Trials in 1825, held to select a locmotive for the proposed railway between Manchester and Liverpool.

2. Hackworth

Over 25 years, Timothy Hackworth designed and built several pioneering locomotives. During this time Shildon developed into a railway town and its workers became highly skilled in heavy engineering. This was the foundation of an industry which would last in the town until 1984.

3. Soho

This imposing building was originally an iron merchant’s store, but later became a railway workshop.

4. Goods

Trains to our Collection Building depart from the former goods shed that served Shildon station.

Please note – our steam train operates on selected dates only, and a small charge applies. Please call the museum on 01388 777999 for more information.

4. Parcel Office

The parcel office tracked all goods - from cattle to money - coming in and out of Shildon's goods yard.

5. Junction

From here, a complicated system of railways served the collieries of the district.

6. Coal Drops

A rare survivor of an industrial structure, and gave the name to the local road 'Spout Lane'.

7. Play

Youngsters can run off steam in our outdoor play area.

8. Collection

Learn more about our railway heritage with our fun and informative interactives.

Admire our display of railway heritage vehicles from the National Collection – including the prototype Deltic; British Rail’s Advanced Passenger Train; and the iconic L.N.E.R. locomotive Green Arrow.

You can also check  the progress on our Conservation Workshop’s latest railway restoration projects from a purpose-built viewing platform.

You’ll also find an indoor picnic area, Platform Seven Café, and gift shop.

L. Light Engine

Use your mobile phone to make a display on the Light Engine interactive.