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Take a look at what they have in store.

A Grade II Bronze Statue of Robert Stephenson

While preparations for HS2 are underway, a 150 year-old memorial statue of Robert Stephenson has been loaned from Euston Station to the Locomotion Museum. Son of ‘father of railways’ George Stephenson, Robert was an engineer and designed the early steam-powered locomotive: the ‘Rocket.’

You can learn more about his competition-winning invention and how it rose to prominence here.

A ride in the ‘Rocket’ replica - various dates from July-October 2025

An incredible replica of the Rocket is on display at the Locomotion museum, and on certain dates, you’ll have the chance to take a ride in it. Taking you along the original line of the Stockton & Darlington Railway, past the museum's main hall and back towards the coal drops, it’s a great way to take in the sights and experience the power of the ‘Rocket’ locomotive.

A host of rail trail walks

As the first railway town in the world, Shildon has some interesting rail trails you can explore, visiting important landmarks such as the Timothy Hackworth monument. Timothy Hackworth was the first superintendent of the Stockton and Darlington Railway. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a day out with the family, or to enjoy on your own.

You can learn more about the rail trails and download the free PDF maps by visiting locomotion.org.uk/whats-on/shildon-rail-trails.

An exhibition train called Inspiration - 20 September - 1 October 2025

As part of celebrating 200 years of rail, you'll be able to visit Inspiration, a touring train with exhibitions inside. Expected to visit 60 locations across Britain over 12 months up to summer 2026, Inspiration will be displayed outside the Locomotion museum entrance. You'll be able to explore the interactive carriages that have been curated in partnership with the National Railway Museum.

They include: 

Visit locomotion.org.uk to see their full programme of events.