Raily Fab Ways to Explore Durham

If the sound of a steam whistle sets your heart racing or you love nothing more than relaxing on a scenic train journey, Durham is calling your name. From heritage railways to hands-on museums and special celebrations, Durham is a dream for railway fans.

Here’s your ultimate guide to unforgettable railway experiences in Durham.

🚂 Step Back in Time at Weardale Railway

Nestled in the heart of the Durham Dales, Weardale Railway is a 16-mile heritage line that runs along the stunning Wear Valley. Hop aboard a lovingly restored train and take in the rolling Durham Dales countryside from Stanhope to Bishop Auckland.

You’ll find 6 stations along the route, including Stanhope, Frosterley, Kingfisher Halt, Wolsingham, Witton-Le-Wear and Bishop Auckland, making the Weardale Railway a great option for exploring the Durham Dales by foot, and The Auckland Project attractions in Bishop Auckland.

Special events throughout the year like family fun days, afternoon tea train and Santa Express make it a must-visit for all ages.

🛤️ Ride the Oldest Railway at Tanfield

A living legend in railway history, Tanfield Railway proudly holds the title of the world’s oldest railway still in operation, with origins dating back to 1725. Offering a truly nostalgic experience, visitors can enjoy a unique journey through time as you climb onboard a vintage steam train and stop for a cup of tea in the station cafe. It’s a heritage journey like no other.

In 2025, Tanfield Railway marks a significant milestone, its 300th anniversary with the Great North Festival of Railways, a month-long celebration held every weekend in May. This festival is a highlight of the Tanfield300 celebrations, featuring a rich program of events that cater to railway enthusiasts, history buffs, and families alike.  

Don’t miss the nearby Causey Arch, a true marvel of industrial engineering and a key part of the Tanfield Railway experience. Built in 1725, this stunning stone bridge is the oldest surviving railway bridge in the world! 

Originally constructed to carry horse-drawn coal wagons from the collieries to the River Tyne, the Causey Arch played a vital role in the early development of the region’s coal and railway industries. At the time, it was the longest single-span railway bridge ever built, an incredible feat of engineering for its day.

Today, visitors can walk under the arch, taking in beautiful views of the surrounding gorge, and reflect on the legacy it represents. Information boards along the route bring its story to life, making it an essential stop for history lovers.

🚉 Hop on The Bishop Line

Connecting Bishop Auckland with Darlington, The Bishop Line is a scenic and convenient way to explore Durham’s market towns. Whether you're heading to Bishop Auckland for history and culture, or Darlington to explore its railway roots, this line is a practical and peaceful way to travel.

There are six stations along the Bishop Line, making it a great choice for visiting the many close by attractions. Starting in Bishop Auckland; home of The Auckland Project and Kynren, the line takes in the beautiful historic scenery of Shildon, passing alongside Locomotion Museum, through Newton Aycliffe, Heighington and the Hitachi Rail site, North Road Station with the North East’s newest railway attraction Hopetown Darlington, over the famous Skerne Bridge then on to Darlington station.

Keep an eye out for community-run events and quirky art at the stations too!

🏭 Step into History at Beamish Museum

Beamish, The Living Museum of the North, offers a full immersion into Britain’s past and its working railway is a huge part of that. Hop on a steam train or explore the recreated station platforms, where costumed staff and vintage carriages bring the age of steam to life. It’s a brilliant day out for families and history lovers alike.

Rowley Station, originally from Rowley near Consett and dating back to 1867, has been meticulously reconstructed at Beamish to reflect its Edwardian-era charm. Visitors can explore the signal box, waiting rooms, and goods yard, all preserved to showcase the station's historical significance. The station, lit by oil lamps as it was in its heyday, offers a glimpse into the early days of railway travel.  

In 2025, Rowley Station will come alive during the Festival of Transport, running from 24 May to 1 June. For the first time since 2020, visitors can enjoy short steam train rides, explore the signal box, and witness the station in full operation. 

At the Pockerley Waggonway, visitors can ride behind "Puffing Billy," a replica of the 1813 locomotive by William Hedley. This experience offers a unique opportunity to understand the early innovations in steam-powered transportation. 

The museum's Colliery Railway showcases the industrial side of railway history, featuring working narrow and standard gauge locomotives. Visitors can witness the operation of historic engines like Glyder and Samson, providing insight into the role of railways in industrial settings.  

🚆 Get Up Close with Railway Icons at Locomotion

At Locomotion, a free to visit museum, you’ll discover why Shildon is known as the “Cradle of the Railways,”. Home to over 70 railway vehicles, from Victorian locomotives to modern engineering marvels, it’s a must-visit for serious trainspotters and curious newcomers. The museum is currently undergoing an exciting transformation as part of the National Railway Museum’s Vision 2025 project and is at the heart of the 2025 bicentenary celebrations of the Stockton & Darlington Railway.  

Starting from February half-term, the museum will feature the "Railway Firsts" exhibition, highlighting pivotal moments and innovations in railway history. The exhibition will showcase stories and artifacts that have shaped the development of rail transport.

Throughout 2025, Locomotion will host a series of events, including talks and lectures, family activities and Iconic Locomotive line-ups - featuring legendary engines that have defined railway eras. 

🎉 Celebrate at the SDR200 Festival

2025 marks a very special milestone, the 200th anniversary of the Stockton & Darlington Railway - the world’s first passenger railway. This historic line helped change the world, and Durham and Teesside is at the heart of the celebrations. The SDR200 Festival will include exhibitions, community events, railway experiences and more. Whether you’re a seasoned rail enthusiast or just looking for something fun and different, this is your year to get on board.

🚄 Getting Here is Half the Fun

Thanks to train operators like LNER and TransPennine Express, reaching Durham by train is a breeze. Hop on a direct service to Durham from London, York, Newcastle, Manchester, Edinburgh and more! Plus it’s sustainable, scenic, and sets the tone for a train-filled adventure.

So whether you’re in it for the steam engines, the station cafes, the history or the views, Durham has a railway experience waiting for you. Pack your bags, grab your railcard, and get ready to roll! All aboard for Durham!