AS THE birthplace of the modern railway Darlington is set to mark a pivotal anniversary next year – an achievement boosted by a win in the Visitor Economy Award for its new visitor attraction, Hopetown Darlington.
Built on the rich heritage of the original Stockton & Darlington Railway, this 7.5-acre site celebrates Darlington’s role in revolutionising global transport with fascinating and interactive exhibits.
The centrepiece of Hopetown Darlington is the historic North Road Station, originally opened in 1842 as part of the Stockton & Darlington Railway. Now a grade II* listed building, it served as Darlington’s sole railway hub until 1887. By the mid-20th century its importance had faded, but it was preserved and transformed into a museum in 1975 thanks to the efforts of local authorities and businesses. Renamed Head of Steam – Darlington Railway Museum in 2008, the site has undergone an extensive refurbishment to evolve into Hopetown Darlington.
Resounding cheers filled the hall when Hopetown Darlington was announced as the winner and Natalie Collins and development director Leona White-Hannant stepped up to collect the award.
“We opened in July and since then have had over 30,000 visitors. It’s so important to tell the story of our heritage but it’s even more important to be a centre for our community as well,” Leona said. “We’re over the moon with the response we’ve had.”
This award comes with Darlington set to mark 200 years of the Stockton & Darlington Railway next year – and the winners promised it will be celebrated with gusto.
Natalie added: “You come to Darlington because it’s the home of rail – and we will be singing it from the rooftops, so just prepare yourselves. It’s going to be amazing.
“Everyone along the line, all communities, are going to get together to celebrate our heritage. It’s an internationally important festival, never mind locally. We’ve already had interest from all over the world.”