Stephenson Railway Museum
Step back in time on a vintage steam train and explore a rich collection of historic locomotives.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the crowds & get the best scones!
Stephenson Railway Museum
Best Time
Beat the crowds & get the best scones!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time on a vintage steam train and explore a rich collection of historic locomotives.
"A bargain for the price, great for young and old. Definitely will go again."
🚂 Unlimited Train Rides!
Your ticket includes unlimited steam train rides for the day. Ride twice for double the fun!
♿ Accessible for All
The museum and train rides are wheelchair and pushchair accessible. Great for little legs!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Steam Train Rides
North Tyneside
Experience a nostalgic 30-minute journey on a vintage steam locomotive, reliving the golden age of rail.
Killingworth Billy
Museum Hall
Marvel at the third oldest surviving locomotive globally, built in 1816, predating Stephenson's Rocket.
Model Railway Displays
Museum Hall
Explore intricate model railways, a treat for enthusiasts and a fun interactive element for all ages.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Train Tickets in Advance
Arrive Early for Cream Teas
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚂 Unlimited Train Rides!
Your ticket includes unlimited steam train rides for the day. Ride twice for double the fun!
♿ Accessible for All
The museum and train rides are wheelchair and pushchair accessible. Great for little legs!
☕ Cafe Delights
Enjoy hot drinks and cakes at the cafe, or bring your own picnic. Arrive early for cream teas!
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture stunning photos of vintage locomotives and scenic routes. Snow days are magical!
Tips
from all over the internet
🚂 Unlimited Train Rides!
Your ticket includes unlimited steam train rides for the day. Ride twice for double the fun!
♿ Accessible for All
The museum and train rides are wheelchair and pushchair accessible. Great for little legs!
☕ Cafe Delights
Enjoy hot drinks and cakes at the cafe, or bring your own picnic. Arrive early for cream teas!
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture stunning photos of vintage locomotives and scenic routes. Snow days are magical!
🚗 Free Parking Available
Ample free parking on-site, including spaces for longer vehicles and parent/toddler spots.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Stephenson Steam Railway Museum for its authentic steam train rides and the historical significance of its locomotive collection, particularly 'Killingworth Billy'. The friendly staff and volunteers create a welcoming atmosphere, and the accessibility makes it enjoyable for all. While the museum itself is compact, the overall experience, especially the train journey, is considered excellent value for money.
"We had a lovely stop off here for a heritage steam train journey up and down the line on a Sunday. It took about half an hour and we got to see the engine uncoupling and re-coupling at the end of the line. Staff were very friendly. There was live music for an event in the museum section so didn't really take a look round there as it was a bit loud for our kids. But they did enjoy the table with colouring pictures of trains and we also had a delicious strawberry and chocolate scone in the café. It was very reasonably priced though the cream tea had run out so I'd say if you want one of those, go early. There were toilets there too but didn't use them so can't comment on those.
There was lots of parking with some parent and toddler spaces. There were some other spaces that would have been suitable for longer vehicles too.
Overall we spent a lovely hour or so there and the kids enjoyed themselves."
R P
"As an exhibitor at the recent Model Railway weekend I sing the praises enough of all the volunteers who made us feel so welcome and organised a fantastic event. The museum is a brilliant little gem with some excellent rolling stock. Well worth a visit"
Josh Swales
"Great place for kids. Wheel chair and pushchair accessible!! Not too big either so their legs won’t get too tired.
Free parking in car park.
Tickets available on arrival, include access to the indoor museum and unlimited steam train rides. The journey is about 30 mins in total.
There’s a small cafe too able to take your own food or buy hot drinks and cakes.
Mini sit on train ride for extra cost too for the little ones."
Chloe Watson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located in North Shields. It offers ample free parking on-site, including spaces suitable for longer vehicles and parent/toddler spots. Public transport options are also available, with local bus routes serving the area. Check local transport schedules for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, there is plenty of free parking available at the museum, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Absolutely! You're welcome to bring your own food and enjoy a picnic. The cafe also offers hot drinks and cakes if you prefer to purchase refreshments.
Yes, the museum and its train rides are fully accessible for wheelchairs and pushchairs, ensuring a comfortable experience for all visitors.
The museum is typically open on weekends for steam train rides and museum access. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most current operating days and times, especially for special events.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets can be purchased on arrival and typically include access to the indoor museum and unlimited steam train rides for the day. It's considered a bargain for the experience offered.
Yes, tickets are available for purchase upon arrival at the museum.
Your ticket generally covers entry to the museum and unlimited rides on the steam train throughout the day.
While specific discount details aren't always highlighted, the overall pricing is considered very reasonable for families. It's always a good idea to check their website or inquire directly for any current offers.
While tickets are available on arrival, booking in advance is recommended, especially for weekend rides and during special events, to guarantee your spot.
🎫 🚂 Onsite Experience
The heritage steam train journey is about 30 minutes in total, offering a delightful round trip along the historic route.
You can explore a collection of 19th and 20th-century locomotives, including the historic 'Killingworth Billy',
Yes, children can enjoy colouring pictures of trains and there's a mini sit-on train ride available for an extra cost.
Visitors often get to see the engine uncoupling and re-coupling at the end of the line during the train journey.
The museum hosts various special events throughout the year, such as 'ghost trains'
📸 📸 Photography
The museum grounds offer excellent opportunities to photograph the vintage locomotives, especially during the train rides. The route itself provides scenic backdrops.
Yes, photography is encouraged! You can capture great shots of the engines up close in the museum and during the train journeys.
Generally, there are no major restrictions on personal photography. However, always be mindful of other visitors and operational areas.
Daylight hours provide good natural light for photography. Weekend mornings can be particularly atmospheric.
The museum's historic locomotives, like 'Killingworth Billy', offer unique photographic subjects. Special events can also provide memorable photo moments.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The museum is also wheelchair and pushchair accessible, making it easy to navigate with little ones. 🚂 Railway Enthusiasts
The opportunity to ride behind a working steam engine is an unparalleled experience. 📸 Photography Buffs
The steam train rides offer dynamic angles and the chance to capture the romance of rail travel. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Stephenson
One of the museum's most prized possessions is the 'Killingworth Billy', built in 1816. This locomotive is the third oldest surviving in the world and predates the famous 'Stephenson's Rocket' by 13 years.
Its presence offers a tangible connection to the very beginnings of steam locomotion, showcasing the evolution of railway technology. The museum also features animations that bring this history to life, making it engaging for all ages. Experiencing the Steam Train Ride
You'll travel in a classic 1950s passenger carriage, pulled by a magnificent steam locomotive, offering a truly immersive step back in time. During the ride, you might witness the engine being uncoupled and re-coupled at the end of the line, adding to the authentic railway experience.
It's a fantastic opportunity to capture unique photos and create lasting memories. A Community Hub for Railway Enthusiasts
The museum also serves as a vibrant community space, hosting events like Model Railway Weekends
These events draw enthusiasts and families alike, fostering a shared appreciation for railway history and offering unique entertainment options. The friendly atmosphere and the passion of the staff and volunteers make it a truly special place to visit. 
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