Darlington
Our first destination on the North Eastern Express is Darlington – The Birthplace of Railways.
With the enthusiasm and support from wealthy local Quaker benefactors, engineer George Stephenson was able to realise the dream of the golden age of steam. Stephenson built the world’s first passenger-pulling steam engine, Locomotion Number One, which is on display at Darlington’s atmospheric Railway Museum, The Head of Steam.
At nearby Shildon is FREE ENTRY Locomotion - the National Railway Museum - named after Darlington’s claim to fame, the Stephenson engine - here you can continue to explore the railway heritage of the pioneering north east region.
In the heart of the town centre, Darlington has a wonderful blend of Quaker Victorian architecture by Waterhouse and GG Hoskins. Waterhouse’s masterpieces include the Victorian Market Hall and Clock Tower and Backhouse’s (now Barclay’s) Bank. As his fame grew, Waterhouse went on to design bigger projects including Manchester Town Hall and the Natural History Museum in London.
Today, Darlington has a relaxed and contemporary feel. It enjoys a new, fresh pedestrian heart and has more independent small businesses, shops and boutiques than any other North East town. Enhanced by great restaurants, award-winning floral displays and pavement cafés, Darlington is a cosmopolitan destination and a great place to spend time exploring.
Click here for more information about Darlington - The Birthplace of Railways.
* Images courtesy One North East
