Discover Shildon: Railway History and Locomotion

Shildon's railway history is reflected in several themes: Locomotion conveys the town's role in British railway history, while the Brusselton Inclines preserve structural traces of the early railway. If you are looking for a hotel for a stay in Shildon, these themes can help guide your travel planning. Highlights range from historic vehicles and places commemorating Timothy Hackworth to activities in Hackworth Park.

Locomotion and the Town's History

Locomotion's Main Hall houses more than 50 historic railway vehicles. The museum's interpretation of its collection conveys Shildon's role in the development of Britain's railways. Hackworth House is now part of Locomotion; its contemporary exhibitions show the role Timothy Hackworth played in the development of the railways and of Shildon. Shildon railway station was rebuilt as part of the museum's construction and is located within the museum.

Guided tours at Locomotion explore the stories behind the exhibits. If you are planning a tour, check the dates in advance. Locomotion's historic buildings numbered 3–9 can currently only be viewed from the outside; check the latest access information before your visit.

Preserved Railway Remains and Hackworth

Timothy Hackworth moved to Shildon in 1825 to work as resident engineer for the Stockton & Darlington Railway, which was then close to opening. His story is also reflected in several named places in Shildon. The Hackworth Monument was erected in Hackworth Park in 1925; the current statue is a modern replacement for the original. Timothy Hackworth's grave is beside the path in the churchyard of St John's Church.

The Stockton & Darlington Railway: Brusselton Inclines comprise surviving above-ground, earthwork and buried remains of the summit and the eastern and western inclines. These remains formed part of George Stephenson's main line of 1825. Exposed sleeper stones preserved in situ extend for more than 100 metres. The eastern Brusselton Incline led to what is now Hackworth Industrial Park, an industrial estate that grew out of Shildon's railway works of the late 19th century.

Another Grade II listed structure is the Drinking Fountain, 30 Metres South-east of Entrance to Recreation Ground. Together, these places show different aspects of railway history: work on the line, its structural remains and the remembrance of Timothy Hackworth.

Paths, Park and Activities

Shildon has numerous walking and cycling routes that run away from roads. Hackworth Park features Parkletics, a free fitness and health initiative. It combines the park's natural outdoor fitness equipment with an app. If you would like to take part, check the local arrangements in advance.

Hackworth parkrun was established in 2015 and now has a large group of regular participants. If you would like to include Hackworth parkrun in your day's plans, check the latest dates beforehand. This lets you choose a focus for your stay from among railway exhibitions, preserved railway structures and outdoor activities.

Discover more destinations: Hunwick, Evenwood, Staindrop, Bishop Middleham, Wycliffe, Shincliffe, Sedgefield, Consett

For the wider travel guide: Durham.