Bowes Railway

About

The Bowes Railway is the only operational and preserved standard gauge cable railway system in the world. Dating from 1826 and designed in part by George Stephenson, it was one of the world’s first modern railways. It was originally built to carry coal from pits in north west Durham to the river Tyne.  By 1855, the line has been extended to Dipton and was 15 miles in length.  The line worked with a locomotive at each end with six inclines that were gravity worked or powered. 

A section of the railway has been preserved and visitors are given a unique insight into a colliery railway that in its heyday carried over 1 million tonnes of coal per year.  Steam engines, diesel locomotives, and old colliery wagons, and regular workshops make for a fascinating family day out. Run by a team of dedicated and knowledgeable volunteers, the museum has open days throughout the year where visitors can take a guided tour and grab a bite to eat at the ‘Kip and Dish’ café.  10 miles of the route can still be walked with the museum at the mid-point of the Bowes Railway path.

Opening times are every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday between 10am and 4pm with open days on the first weekend of each month. Visitors are encouraged to check the website for open days and times.  The museum is at the mid-point of the Bowes Railway path