Weardale Railway welcomes rare 1903 NER Autocar to Stanhope

Weardale Railway welcomes rare 1903 NER Autocar to Stanhope

Weardale Railway will host a remarkable piece of railway history this winter by welcoming the iconic North Eastern Railway (NER) Petrol-Electric Autocar to Stanhope for a limited time.

The NER Autocar will run passenger services between Stanhope and Bishop Auckland in February and March, then headline special Easter events. Visitors have a rare opportunity to ride this significant historic train during these dates.

The NER Autocar debuted in 1903 as a world-first—the earliest passenger rail vehicle to use an internal combustion engine generating electricity for traction motors. Visionary engineer Vincent Raven designed it, placing it over half a century ahead of its time and making it a direct forerunner of today’s diesel-electric trains.

At a time when steam ruled the railways, Raven drew inspiration from emerging electric tram technology, combining electric traction with a self-contained petrol engine and generator. The result was a pioneering railcar that delivered superior acceleration and hill-climbing ability – and introduced railway firsts, including electric track brakes.

After serving the North East and North Yorkshire for decades, the autocar body became a holiday home before rescuers meticulously restored it. Now rebuilt to its 1923 condition, teams have sensitively modernised it with a diesel-electric power system to meet current safety standards, all while retaining its historic character, interior layout, and tram-style controls.

Ahead of its first public journey, Weardale Railway staff — including guards and drivers — will undertake four weeks of specialist training to ensure the vehicle is operated safely and authentically.

Claire Gibbons, General Manager at Weardale Railway, said: “Welcoming the NER Autocar to Weardale Railway is incredibly special, and is 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.”

Spanning 18 miles from Bishop Auckland to Eastgate, and operating 16 miles between Bishop Auckland West and Stanhope, Weardale Railway is a heritage line that connects communities while celebrating County Durham’s rich railway history.

The Auckland Project rescued the railway from administration in 2020 and has invested significantly, funding essential repairs and infrastructure improvements. The Weardale Railway now offers revived operational heritage services and events—including afternoon teas, wine and cheese trains, and the popular Santa Express.

The Weardale Railway is part of The Auckland Project, a regeneration charity transforming Bishop Auckland into a leading visitor destination through its unique collection of heritage attractions, galleries, and gardens.

Visitors can explore Auckland Palace, the Spanish Gallery, the Mining Art Gallery, Faith Museum, along with extensive gardens and Deer Park.

Find out more here: https://aucklandproject.org/unlimited-pass/ and https://www.weardale-railway.org.uk/

Full details of operating dates are available on the Weardale Railway website. To book your place on the Autocar, please visit: https://weardale-railway.digitickets.co.uk/event-tickets/73920?catID=69264&