Sunday 2 August: I’m taking a break on the long journey north, visiting a steam railway and museum just beyond the northern exit from the Tyne Tunnel. It may be the North Tyneside Steam Railway; it may be the Stephenson Steam Railway. It seems to have been both at some stage. This may be a reflection of its history, its track laid on the route of several historic waggonways and the former Blyth and Tyne Railway, and more recently, in 1973, a test track for the Metro, then in development.

Whatever its history, the ride, though short (2 miles each way) is pleasant and surprisingly rural, lined with greenery for much of the way. Journey over, a visit to the museum proves to be very rewarding – a well set-up and well-displayed collection of unexpectedly interesting exhibits. Worth another visit, I reckon…

North Tyneside Steam Railway
Stephenson Steam Railway