Bowes Railway at Springwell Village, Gateshead is a great place to visit for those family days out and attractions in the area

Bowes Railway's origins were as a colliery railway. The earliest sections were designed by George Stephenson and when it was complete in 1855 it carried coal from the pits in the north and west Durham for transport to the Tyne at Jarrow. It was acquired by Tyne & Wear County Council for preservation in 1976 and is now the only working standard gauge rope hauled railway in the world and on the doorstep of all Gateshead residents. Now owned by Sunderland City Council and Gateshead Council

Days Out and Attractions

There are many things to do at Bowes Railway and you will find it a great day out with plenty of family entertainment. You can also take a virtual tour by visiting the website link above

Bowes Railway, including its machinery, rolling stock and buildings is now a Scheduled Ancient Monument. So for a great day out and attraction where you can learn more about Rope Haulage, Locomotives, Rolling Stock and some of the industrial history of Gateshead, Bowes Railway is a must for family entertainment

Open Days and Special Events

There are many open days published on the Bowes Railway website at www.bowesrailway.co.uk and in addition, there are a host of special events, including Santa Specials in December to delight Gateshead youngsters

Features of recent events have been:

• Air/Sea Rescue Helicopters
• RAF and USAF Helicopters
• Police and Fire Brigade
• Mines Rescue
• Steam Traction Engines
• House of Fun and Bouncy Castles
• Face Painting, Clowns and Fairground Organ
• NRM 'Play Train'
• Live music from Local Pop Group and Brass Bands

Advanced booking is essential for these special days out and you can book by calling Gateshead 0191 416 1847

Bespoke Events can be catered for by arrangement, with Bowes Railway being a popular choice for private photographic charters, TV documentaries, educational visits and period drama filming

If you are looking for things to do, family entertainment or days out and attractions, Bowes Railway will be sure to delight

 Please mention The Best Of Gateshead when contacting Bowes Railway for your family entertainment