Hopetown Darlington

What is Hopetown Darlington?

Hopetown Darlington is an interactive museum dedicated to Darlington’s rich railway history. You will find both indoor and outdoor activities to do here. The museum has a large play area, a cafe, a kiosk serving ice cream and drinks, and occasionally you can get drinks at the carriage works reception area, There is a large wooden play area that has ramps up to it, just be aware the gradient may mean self propelling wheelchair users need a hand to get up.

Things to do at Hopetown.

• Large wooded outdoor play area
• Cafe with outdoor seating
• Kiosk near the play area
• Gift shop
• History experience simulator
• 3 large separate buildings housing different railway memorabilia
• Small outdoor play area with giant Jenga, ride on diggers and haystack
• Antique road going steam-powered locomotives

How accessible is Hopetown Darlington?

The museum itself is spread over 3 buildings and an outdoor area, all of which is level access. They also have disabled toilets and disability/carer passes for admission to the simulator. The cafe caters for allergies with options for vegetarians, however the menu changes regularly so checking online isn’t an option. There is disabled parking available outside the venue, this is road parking however.

Disabled car parking can be found here; McNay Street, Darlington, DL3 6SW

Events at the museum

There are lots of different events and things to do here, check out the website for an updated itinerary on the events. 

• Curators Tour
• Wagon Wood
• Railway Pioneers
• Playtown on the Platform
• Home educators workshops

Things you should know when going

The carpark for Hopetown is located here:

Skerne Bridge Car Park
John Street
Darlington
DL1 1LG

Parking is not free, so bring coins/cards with you.

The Museum is FREE admission, there are paid attractions within the museum when you get there.

More ideas on what to do in Darlington.