A week-long visit by the nationally touring Inspiration Train is set to bring additional visitors to Weardale Railway, with a programme of community events planned to coincide with its stay in County Durham.

The train will be based at Stanhope Station between 8 and 14 June, as part of the nationwide Rail 200 celebrations, commemorating 200 years since the birth of the modern railway. During its visit, members of the public will be able to board the attraction free of charge between 9:30 am and 4:30 pm daily, with general admission from midday.

To mark the final weekend of the train’s stay, Weardale Railway will stage its Community BIG Weekend on 13 and 14 June. The event will feature heritage services between Stanhope and Wolsingham, family entertainment, food vendors and a craft market.

A live music evening on Saturday 13 June will see Stanhope Silver Band perform from 6 pm until 9:30 pm, supported by late-running train services, including an additional 8:45 pm departure. Tickets cost £5.

The celebrations will conclude on Sunday, 14 June, with a free Teddy Bears’ Picnic from 12:30 pm to 2:30 pm, offering children’s activities and entertainment.

“Welcoming the Inspiration Train to Stanhope is a fantastic opportunity for Weardale Railway and the wider community to be part of a national celebration marking 200 years of the modern railway.

“We’re proud to be hosting a full weekend of activities that brings together heritage rail travel, local entertainment and family fun, while also showcasing everything Weardale has to offer to visitors from across the region.”

Claire Gibbons, General Manager at Weardale Railway.