About Locomotion
Explore centuries of railway heritage at this Shildon museum, featuring historic locomotives and hands-on exhibits. Kids can enjoy the outdoor play area while families discover the fascinating story of Britain's railway pioneers.
What's nearby
- Eden Grange Fishery 500m away
- Perfect Home & Garden 500m away
Distances as the crow flies, via Google
Good to know
Parking
- ✓Free car park
- ✓Free street
Accessibility
- ✓Accessible parking
- ✓Accessible entrance
- ✓Accessible toilet
- ✓Accessible seating
Payment
- ✓Contactless
Details via Google — worth confirming with the attraction before you travel, especially for access needs.
Photos
Photos via Google
Opening hours
- Monday
- 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Tuesday
- 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Wednesday
- 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Thursday
- 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Friday
- 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday
- 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday
- 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Current hours may differ from the usual schedule above (e.g. holidays) — check Google Maps for today's hours.
What visitors say
Birthday day out. Brilliant place. Trains trains and more trains. Not to be missed. Not the crowds of York NRM. Great staff. Informative well laid out sheds. Free parking. Free entry but please make a donation as this place doesnt run on fresh air.
· via Google
Had an absolutely fantastic time at the during the Festival of Steam! The atmosphere was incredible—full of energy, history, and excitement for all ages. Seeing the beautifully preserved locomotives up close and watching them come to life was something special. The event was really well organised, with plenty to see and do throughout the day. Staff and volunteers were friendly, knowledgeable, and clearly passionate about what they do, which made the experience even better. One thing I’d highly recommend: pay the extra for the train ride. It’s 100% worth it! Riding behind a steam locomotive adds a whole new level to the visit and makes it truly unforgettable. A special mention has to go to the wagon with the sensor-activated mooing cow—honestly one of the funniest things for children (and adults too!). Little touches like that really make the visit memorable. Adding even more interactive elements for kids would make it even better. The only other small improvement I’d suggest is the restaurant—while the food was decent, a wider variety of meal options would make the experience even better. If you’re even slightly interested in trains, history, or just a great day out—this is a must-visit. Already looking forward to going again in two weeks time for Magnificent models weekend!!!
· via Google
Fantastic Museum. Not dog Friendly though. I would suggest if you are walking the Amazing Historic S&DR Heritage Trail with the family and dogs. The Only refreshments on the Trail between Shildon and Toft hill is Broom Mill Farm which shows as a Green Bench. Fantastic food and great VFM plenty of outdoor benches on the terrace and a covered area as well. Honestly fantastic place. I stop here 2 or 3 times a week. Farm shop is great too
· via Google
A really lovely day out! Free entry, but you can donate. The cafe is lovely, and the Victoria sponge was great. Loads of really interesting exhibits from all eras of British railways. ☆☆☆☆☆
· via Google
Visitors say this railway museum offers a vast collection of historic locomotives and rolling stock, with many interactive exhibits and activities for children. They also highlight the free entry and ample parking, making it a great value day out for families. Others mention the friendly and knowledgeable staff, as well as the clean and well-maintained facilities.
Summary via Google
At a glance
- Address
- Dale Road Industrial Estate, Shildon, DL4 2RE Get directions
- Category
- Museums & Galleries
- Guest rating
- 4.7 / 5 (4,786 reviews)
- Suitable for
- All Ages
- Setting
- Indoor & outdoor
- Good for children
- Yes
- Toilets on site
- Yes
- Destination
- Shildon