Visit to Scotland - Day 1

The last time I visited Scotland does not hold happy memories for me, not down to the beautiful part of the British Isles but rather down to the fact that I had to rush back home as my Dad was dying. 

This visit was far more enjoyable and we managed to visit two non-Scottish destinations on our long journey to the North and back home again.

A view of the yard with the main building in the background.

The first of these was a visit to the National Railway Museum's facility at Shildon, somewhere I have been meaning to go ever since the Great Gathering on the surviving A4 Pacific locomotives in 2013 when the museum hosted the Great Goodbye as the American and Canadian loco's went back to their respective museum's.

The museum building is an impressive train shed with lots of space for displaying the National Collection such as the Prototype Deltic, the forerunner of BR's class 55 diesel locomotive.

The Deltic prototype diesel-electric locomotive

There is also the prototype APT, a monstrous gas turbine powered beast that featured tilting coaches and ran at 150mph during its testing.

Along with several beautiful steam locomotives the museum has much interest for the enthusiast.

One slight problem for the photographer is that they are parked in lines as they would be in a traditional locomotive shed, making photography difficult. Also some items are hidden between the rows which is a shame.

Sans Pareil replica (the original is also in the museum)

The displays also include items of rolling stock plus a display of model railway items including a complete layout of OO gauge tinplate.

Outside there is a short line on which rides are available on certain days (see the official website for details).

Following the demo line out of the yard brings you past the coal drops, a large structure that requires a lot of work to make it safe. There is also a goods shed and other buildings further up the line but time was tight and I was not able to visit them.

There is also a large play area for the kids with railway themed play items.

The museum also has a well stocked shop with a large amount of model railway stock plus there is a small cafe area serving food at a decent price.

All in all it is a nice museum that has lots to offer for the family as well as the enthusiast.