This May, Tanfield Railway, the world’s oldest railway, will host a once-in-a-lifetime meeting of railway legends as Furness Railway No. 20, Britain’s oldest working standard gauge steam locomotive, steams into County Durham for the Great North Festival of Railways.
Built in 1863, the 0-4-0 tender engine will run passenger services on 3rd, 4th, 6th, 10th and 11th May. Visiting courtesy of the Furness Railway Trust, No.20 will appear alongside Tanfield’s own historic fleet, including Twizell, freshly returned to service after major restoration, and Stanley, unveiled with a striking new repaint especially for the celebrations.
Visitors can ride behind Furness No. 20, tour Marley Hill engine shed — the oldest in the world — explore Causey Arch, and soak up the festival atmosphere. Across the site, there’ll be heritage and craft stands, and live music performances bringing the story of Britain’s industrial railways to life.
David Watchman, General Manager of Tanfield Railway, said: “Furness No. 20’s visit is a historic moment for Tanfield and a fitting way to mark 300 years of railway innovation. We’re thrilled to combine steam trains, live music, model railways and hands-on heritage displays to create an unmissable event for enthusiasts and families alike.”
Tanfield Railway, located in Gateshead and County Durham, operates a three-mile heritage railway running steam and diesel trains throughout the year. Dating back to 1725, the railway was originally built to transport coal from North East England’s rich coalfields to the River Tyne. Today, it is a volunteer-run heritage attraction, preserving and showcasing North East industrial railway history.
Tanfield Railway’s Tanfield300 celebrations will continue throughout 2025, with events including the Legends of Industry Gala in June, showcasing the best of Britain’s industrial railway heritage.
Tickets for the Great North Festival of Railways are on sale now at www.tanfield-railway.co.uk. Advance booking is strongly recommended.