Stephenson Railway Museum in North Tyneside is presently closed to the public but will reopen in 2012 for the local schools February half term.

Visitors will be able to see the fascinating collection of steam, electric and diesel locomotives, including George Stephenson’s ‘Billy’, a forerunner of the world-famous ‘Rocket’. There will also be passenger train rides available on Sundays and most Bank Holidays from the 20th February, hauled by a Pecket 0-6-0 steam engine (as photo above) or heritage 08 or 03 diesel when the steam engine is undergoing routine maintenance.

From April 2012, Stephenson Railway Museum will also be open from 11am to 4pm on weekends and Bank Holiday Mondays, as well as during the school holidays.

Santa Specials will be steam hauled by the Peckett locomotive during weekends in December (bookings taken from September).

Geoff Woodward, manager of North Tyneside Museums, says:

“Entry to the Museum is free and it is a great place to visit and find out about the history of train travel.” 

Stephenson Railway Museum is managed by Tyne & Wear Archives & Museums on behalf of North Tyneside Council. 

For more information call (0191) 200 7146.