Weardale Railway to launch NER Autocar in County Durham

Launched by the Auckland Project, the North East Autocar, originally built 1903, will be making its first appearance on the Weardale Railway.

The Bishop Auckland based regeneration charity said the event will officially launch their 2026 season.

A spokesperson from The Auckland Project said: “We're thrilled to welcome the North East Autocar to Weardale Railway for the first time, officially launching our 2026 season.

“With just over 100 seats, this truly unique railcar offers a one-of-a-kind journey through the Weardale countryside. A must-ride for history lovers and railway fans alike.”

The historic vehicle begins operating on Tuesday, February 25, and will run on selected dates until its final day of service on Monday, April 6.

Ticket prices start from £5.50 for travel between Stanhope and Wolsingham, and £9 between Stanhope and Bishop Auckland. Prices are for all day travel and you can board at either Stanhope or Bishop Auckland West.

Tickets can be booked through Digitickets at https://weardale-railway.digitickets.co.uk/tickets.

First introduced in 1903, the NER Autocar is recognised as the earliest passenger rail vehicle to use an internal combustion engine to generate electricity for traction motors.

Designed by engineer Vincent Raven, the autocar was more than half a century ahead of its time and is regarded as a direct forerunner of today’s diesel-electric trains.

After decades of service across the North East and North Yorkshire, the autocar’s body was later repurposed as a holiday home before being rescued and restored.

Weardale Railway runs for 18 miles between Bishop Auckland and Eastgate, operating services over 16 miles between Bishop Auckland West and Stanhope, continuing its role in connecting communities and celebrating County Durham’s rich railway heritage.

Claire Gibbons, General Manager at Weardale Railway, said: “Welcoming the NER Autocar to Weardale Railway is incredibly special and offers a rare opportunity for people to step aboard a true world-first in railway history.

“This vehicle tells an extraordinary story of innovation and ambition at a time when steam dominated the railways, and we’re thrilled to be able to share that story with our visitors here in Weardale.”

Now rebuilt to its 1923 condition, the auto car has been modernised using a diesel-electric power system to meet current safety standards, while carefully retaining its historic character, original interior layout and distinctive tram-style controls.

Full details of operating dates are available on the Weardale Railway website.