This interesting location on the boundary between Wallsend and North Shields has seen continuous railway development from late in the Eighteenth Century to the present day; two lines once formed the boundaries of the Museum site and four railways in all crossed Middle Engine Lane within 100 yds of each other. Such intensive use arose from the site's position mid-way between Backworth and coal-shipping points on the Tyne. It was around Backworth that raiIways from many points in the Northumberland coalfield converged to follow a parallel route to the staiths at Hayhole Point, Whitehill Point, Northumberland Dock and Albert Edward Dock.

The railway use of the site has covered the whole spectrum of operations and all types of traffic. Development began with horse or rope-haulage of coal-traffic in chaldron wagons; ropes were replaced progressively by steam locomotive power and when the Tyne & Wear Passsenger Transport Executive took over the site in the 1970's, steam gave way to electric traction on the sections which they incorporated into their test track.

Shortly after closure of the test track & centre, in 1981 many of the large transport exhibits in the Tyne & Wear Museum Service collections were re-located from Monwearmouth Station Museum, Sunderland to the former centre.

The purpose-built railway workshop accommodation has allowed restoration work on the exhibits to proceed and the facility exists to demonstrate some in working order during Public Open Days. A large exhibition hall is open to the public but watch the local press for access days to the workshop area.

In addition to the large exhibits, the hall contains many railway artefacts such as station name boards, signalling apparatus, and equipment to help children understand the principles behind railway development. There is no admission charge for visiting the museum but a ride on the railway is chargeable. Look at the 'Timetable' link below for details of times and prices.

The Museum Hall has an adjoining Tea Room where visitors can obtain refreshments at moderate prices on steam operating days.

The tea room