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RAILWAY 200 WHISTLE-UP

Quick Details

  • Ages: All Ages
  • Date: 1st Jan 2025
  • Time: 11am - 1pm (Whistle-Up at 12pm)
  • Ticket Information: Free Entry
  • Location: Marley Hill Engine Shed

Entry

Free

Join us at Tanfield Railway as we take part in the global “Railway 200 Whistle-Up” event, marking 200 years of the modern railway. This special occasion will also launch Tanfield300, celebrating 300 years of Tanfield Railway’s remarkable history dating back to 1725.

The Whistle-Up, spearheaded by the Heritage Railway Association (HRA), is set to be the largest railway mass-participation event ever, with over 65 heritage railways, 180 locomotives, and international participants joining in. At Tanfield, we’ll feature around five steam engines and three diesel locomotives to blow their whistles and horns as part of this historic moment at 12:00 pm sharp.

This is a unique opportunity to celebrate the railway’s rich heritage alongside enthusiasts, rail staff, and members of the public from around the world. The event is supported by mainline railways, train modellers like Hornby, and public contributions via social media using #Railway200 and #WhistleUp200.

Visitors are invited to explore our historic Marley Hill engine shed, which will be open from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm. Light refreshments will be available to enjoy, and entry is free of charge.

What to Expect:

  • Whistle-Up at 12pm: Hear the whistles of our steam engines and horns of diesel locomotives join in this global celebration.
  • Historic Marley Hill Engine Shed: Step back in time and experience one of the world’s oldest working engine sheds.
  • Light Refreshments: Enjoy a selection of refreshments during your visit.

David Watchman, General Manager of Tanfield Railway, says:
“It’s fantastic to be part of the Railway 200 Whistle-Up and to represent the North East’s rich industrial railway heritage. Locations like Tanfield played a pivotal role in the development of the modern railways. Starting as a wooden waggonway, Tanfield soon became one of the busiest in the world, fueling the industrial revolution. Railways changed the way we live, and this event marks a truly momentous occasion for us all to enjoy.”

This event marks the beginning of Tanfield300, a year-long celebration of Tanfield Railway’s tercentenary, with festival-style events throughout 2025.

Don’t miss this historic New Year’s Day event!