1 / 3Locomotion
π Shildon, North West
National Railway Museum outpost in Shildon with free entry, covering horse-drawn to electrified engines, passenger carriages, freight wagons, snow ploughs, and a Royal carriage. Pram-friendly throughout with knowledgeable volunteer guides.
Absolutely brilliant attraction. Friendly staff on arrival, no problem with filming and photography for my social media content, spoke to Dave who was volunteer wandering around and gave me lots of knowledge about the displays, cafe staff very politeβ¦ overall a very enjoyable visit. Well worth a visit with free admission but donate if possible. Two large buildings with lots of locomotives on display with a vast range of mixed dieselβs, steam and some unusual stock like snow ploughs and an airport shuttle. Go and enjoy
π Family Action Verdict
Best for families with train-loving children, especially toddlers and primary-age kids who'll be captivated by the sheer scale of the locomotives. Free admission makes it an easy choice for a half-day visit.
βΉοΈ What to Know Before You Go
π¬ What Families Are Saying
View all reviews β4,554 Google reviews
M M
4 months ago
βAbsolutely brilliant attraction. Friendly staff on arrival, no problem with filming and photography for my social media content, spoke to Dave who was volunteer wandering around and gave me lots of knowledge about the displays, cafe staff very politeβ¦ overall a very enjoyable visit. Well worth a visit with free admission but donate if possible. Two large buildings with lots of locomotives on display with a vast range of mixed dieselβs, steam and some unusual stock like snow ploughs and an airport shuttle. Go and enjoyβ
David Herron
a month ago
βFantastic day out with our 2 year old who was in awe at all the trains! Free entry is a big plus! Fantastic selection of both passenger trains/carriages, working trains/carriages and even some railway snow ploughs! Really easily accessible through out. Loads to see and learn about the history of the railways, even kept our 2 year old engaged! Lovely cafe with a decent selection. We will be definitely returning!β
Simon Rolph
4 months ago
βA really good day out, brilliant exhibits with great information boards not long winded like other museums but tell you everything you need to know. For a free day out donations are welcomed it really is a great day out. We didnβt have time to see the historic buildings but we will definitely revisit and take them in next time. Not as vast as there sister museum in York but it is a great museum.β
Rik
a month ago
βLovely few hours today at Locomotion: the National Railway Museum at Shildon today with Dad. Travelling through time from hand powered and horse drawn to electrified engines, beautiful carriages and even Royal carriage. A huge range of working vehicles too, from cranes to snow ploughs and tank carriers Highly recommend if you're in the areaβ
Reviews from Google
Overview
Locomotion at Shildon is the National Railway Museum's northern collection β a large indoor and outdoor site tracing railway history from horse-drawn wagons through to electrified engines. Highlights include working vehicles, snow ploughs, tank cars, and a Royal carriage. Volunteer guides wander the site and share detailed knowledge about individual exhibits.
