Bishop Line tracks and view of old coal store

Family fun

History and heritage

Bishop Line

Darlington – Bishop Auckland

Travel along part of the historic Stockton and Darlington Railway, the birthplace of the modern railway.

The Bishop Line is bursting with history, it follows the route of the historic Stockton and Darlington Railway, the first public passenger route still in use today.

History & heritage and family fun

Along the way you’ll pass over Skerne Bridge, opened in 1825 it’s the oldest railway bridge still being used by rail. See the locomotive that hauled the first train along the line at Hopetown Darlington and see up close a wide range of engines at Locomotion – The National Railway Museum at Shildon, before grabbing refreshments and sitting in real train seats at the on-site café.

Visit Bishop Auckland and discover the history of this fascinating market town when you explore The Auckland Project. Here you can learn more about the palace, museum, deer park and gardens.

The Bishop Line are a big part of the national Railway 200 celebration in 2025. This celebration commemorates 200 years of innovation, creativity and development of the railways. Find out more.

About this line

Route

Darlington – Bishop Auckland

Journey time

30 mins

Cost

Off-peak day return from £4.90

Distance

17 miles | 27 km

This line is supported by:

Stations on this line:

  • Darlington
  • North Road (Darlington)
  • Heighington
  • Newton Aycliffe
  • Shildon
  • Bishop Auckland

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