Locomotion New Hall

Railway enthusiasts will find themselves in familiar territory at Locomotion, the National Railway Museum's outpost just outside Shildon. This isn't a small local affair - it's a proper museum housed in a Victorian railway works, packed with historic locomotives and rolling stock that tell the story of Britain's rail heritage. You'll see everything from early steam engines to carriages that actually ran passenger services, many of them you can get close to without glass barriers getting in the way.

The museum works best for anyone with even a passing interest in railways, though families with young trainspotters will spend a good two to three hours here easily. It's free to wander around, which is refreshing, though donations are encouraged. The building itself is worth seeing - there's real atmosphere in exploring a working Victorian railway complex. Don't expect theme-park theatrics; this is straightforward, genuine museum work.

Shildon itself isn't the prettiest town, but staying at one of the nearby parks like Eden Grange Glamping puts you within easy striking distance. The area suits a railway-focused trip rather than a general holiday destination, unless you're combining it with walks along the River Wear or exploring Durham's wider attractions. Go on a weekday if you can - weekends pull in school groups and it gets properly rammed. Allow a good half-day minimum, longer if you're the type who reads every caption.