Hitachi Rail has opened the doors of its Newton Aycliffe train factory to the public for the first time, marking 200 years since the world’s first passenger railway ran between Stockton and Darlington.
More than 1,500 visitors attended the sell-out event on 4 October, exploring one of the UK’s most advanced rail manufacturing facilities alongside the birthplace of modern passenger travel. Guests toured the factory, saw engineering demonstrations, and discovered innovations in battery and digital train technology.
The day also featured rides on a working replica of the pioneering Locomotion No.1, which first carried passengers in 1825, as well as access to Inspiration – Railway 200’s interactive exhibition train, currently touring the UK to highlight careers and innovation in rail. Community activities, heritage talks and family workshops rounded out the celebrations.
Jim Brewin, Hitachi Rail’s Chief Director for UK & Ireland, described the event as a “once-in-a-generation celebration,” adding: “Welcoming hundreds of families and rail enthusiasts through our doors is a wonderful way to celebrate 200 years of progress on the railway. This event is particularly special for us as it coincides with the 10th anniversary of our Newton Aycliffe factory – the moment Hitachi brought train manufacturing back to its birthplace.”
Railway 200 programme manager Emma Roberts said the occasion gave visitors “a fresh look at the railway, learning more about how it shapes people’s lives and livelihoods,” while Niccy Halifax, S&DR200 Festival Director, praised the partnership as a reminder of “why rail still matters to communities and the economy today.”
Local MP Alan Strickland noted Newton Aycliffe’s continuing role in rail innovation: “It was brilliant to see so many visitors exploring the Hitachi train factory, just a stone’s throw from Heighington station, where Locomotion No.1 was placed on the tracks for the first time.”
Ahead of the open day, Hitachi welcomed 200 local pupils for a special preview, linking the North East’s industrial heritage to the future of sustainable transport.
The factory event formed part of Hitachi Rail’s wider contributions to the Railway 200 bicentenary, which also included support for the S&DR200 Festival, involvement in Hopetown Darlington’s Steam to the Future exhibition, and a donation to help preserve Heighington Station – regarded as the world’s first passenger railway station.
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