Upcoming events.
February Open Day
Aycliffe Bus Museum Open Day – The Story of The Newtonian
Date: February 21st, 2026 | Time: 10:00 – 14:00
Entry: Free Entry - Donations Appreciated
Step back in time and discover the fascinating history of NDL 769G, The Newtonian, at the Aycliffe Bus Museum Open Day! Explore the story of our iconic Bristol LH, which served countless journeys with United after being lovingly brought over from the Isle of Wight.
This is more than just a museum visit – it’s a full day of fun and discovery for all ages! Enjoy:
Free bus rides around the museum grounds
Hands-on experiences – get on board vehicles and explore up close
Exclusive access to our archives and historic exhibits
Meet & chat with passionate museum members and volunteers
Plus, we’ll have special guests, stalls, and refreshments to make your visit even more memorable. Whether you’re a bus enthusiast, history lover, or just looking for a fantastic day out, this event is not to be missed!
Join us on February 21st and be part of the story of The Newtonian – an experience that promises fun, fascination, and unforgettable memories.
Kirkby Stephen Rally Weekend
Aycliffe and District Bus Preservation Society on Tour over Easter Weekend 2026. Join us for an unforgettable journey to the world-famous Bus Rally at Kirkby Stephen and Brough in beautiful Cumbria.
The Cumbria Easter Rally, based in Kirkby Stephen and the surrounding villages, offers something for everyone. Hop aboard a classic bus for a scenic run from Kirkby Stephen to Brough and other nearby villages, including rides to The Fat Lamb, Ravenstonedale, and even meet trains arriving at Kirkby Stephen Station on the iconic Settle-Carlisle railway line.
Saturday Highlights:
Road Run at 4 PM from Brough: Take part in a convoy of classic vehicles touring the picturesque local countryside before returning to Brough.
Along the route, enjoy local shops, hospitality, side stalls, and entertainment at various stops.
Explore the stunning Eden Valley, soak up the atmosphere, and celebrate classic buses and vehicles in this family-friendly Easter event. Don’t miss out on this unique chance to combine a love of buses, countryside, and community!
Tees Cottage Pumping Station
We can’t wait to see our friends at Tees Cottage Pumping Station again throughout 2026! This historic gem has been keeping history alive for decades. Did you know? In 1849, Tees Cottage revolutionised Darlington’s water supply, providing cleaner, piped water to homes and businesses that had previously relied on contaminated wells, rivers, and rainwater tubs. By 1851, the clean water service extended to Stockton, Middlesbrough, and Yarm, thanks to its clear health benefits.
Visitors can explore some incredible machinery, including Lancashire Boilers from 1902, a 1904 steam-powered Beam Engine, and a 1914 Gas Engine, all still in operation and pumping water from the River Tees (though no longer supplying the town’s water!).
There’s plenty more to enjoy:
Blacksmith’s Shop demonstrations
Miniature Railway rides with the Cleveland Association of Model Engineers (small additional charge)
Refreshments in the Tea Room, or bring a picnic to enjoy on the beautiful grounds
Mark your calendars – we’ll be back in 2026 to enjoy a day of history, steam, and community fun!
Darlington & Durham Running Day 2026
Darlington & Durham Running Day 2026 — a fantastic celebration of classic and modern buses, transport heritage, and community fun!
Join us for a full day of activity featuring:
A varied line-up of guest and home fleet vehicles
Free bus rides throughout the day — including special surprise journeys!
Stalls, traders, and refreshments
Aycliffe Bus Museum open with a special exhibition and archive display
Whether you're a dedicated transport enthusiast, a family looking for a great day out, or simply someone who loves buses, this event has something for everyone.
If you’d like to bring a vehicle or host a stall, we’d love to hear from you!
Contact us via:
Facebook Messenger
Email: aycliffe-bus@hotmail.com
We can’t wait to welcome you for what promises to be an amazing day!
Leyland National 54
In May, We will be heading to Leyland National 54 for the Workington Transport Event.
Visitors can look forward to an excellent selection of locally built Leyland Nationals, alongside many other historic buses dating back to the 1930s. Vehicles will be on static display as well as operating a range of local tours in and around Whitehaven. These will include trips to the beach and St Bees, a run to Cockermouth for the newly re-opened Jennings Brewery, and a route taking in the recently upgraded Workington Bus Station. Notably, this is the first purpose-built, covered bus station in Britain and will celebrate its centenary in 2026.
The event will also celebrate the Leyland Titan, the double-deck successor to the National, which first entered service on the streets of London in 1976. While early examples were assembled at the Park Royal works in London, production later moved to the Leyland National factory at Lillyhall.
Tees Cottage Pumping Station
We can’t wait to see our friends at Tees Cottage Pumping Station again throughout 2026! This historic gem has been keeping history alive for decades. Did you know? In 1849, Tees Cottage revolutionised Darlington’s water supply, providing cleaner, piped water to homes and businesses that had previously relied on contaminated wells, rivers, and rainwater tubs. By 1851, the clean water service extended to Stockton, Middlesbrough, and Yarm, thanks to its clear health benefits.
Visitors can explore some incredible machinery, including Lancashire Boilers from 1902, a 1904 steam-powered Beam Engine, and a 1914 Gas Engine, all still in operation and pumping water from the River Tees (though no longer supplying the town’s water!).
There’s plenty more to enjoy:
Blacksmith’s Shop demonstrations
Miniature Railway rides with the Cleveland Association of Model Engineers (small additional charge)
Refreshments in the Tea Room, or bring a picnic to enjoy on the beautiful grounds
Mark your calendars – we’ll be back in 2026 to enjoy a day of history, steam, and community fun!
May OPEN DAY
Aycliffe Bus Museum Open Day – The Story of LHN 860
Date: May 30th, 2026 | Time: 10:00 – 14:00
Entry: Free Entry - Donations Appreciated
Step back in time and discover the fascinating history of Bristol L-Type, LHN 860, at the Aycliffe Bus Museum Open Day! Explore the story of our iconic Bristol L, which served countless journeys with United, and on TV.
This is more than just a museum visit – it’s a full day of fun and discovery for all ages! Enjoy:
Free bus rides around the museum grounds
Hands-on experiences – get on board vehicles and explore up close
Exclusive access to our archives and historic exhibits
Meet & chat with passionate museum members and volunteers
Plus, we’ll have special guests, stalls, and refreshments to make your visit even more memorable. Whether you’re a bus enthusiast, history lover, or just looking for a fantastic day out, this event is not to be missed!
Join us on May 30th and be part of the story of LHN 860 – an experience that promises fun, fascination, and unforgettable memories.
Tees Cottage Pumping Station
We can’t wait to see our friends at Tees Cottage Pumping Station again throughout 2026! This historic gem has been keeping history alive for decades. Did you know? In 1849, Tees Cottage revolutionised Darlington’s water supply, providing cleaner, piped water to homes and businesses that had previously relied on contaminated wells, rivers, and rainwater tubs. By 1851, the clean water service extended to Stockton, Middlesbrough, and Yarm, thanks to its clear health benefits.
Visitors can explore some incredible machinery, including Lancashire Boilers from 1902, a 1904 steam-powered Beam Engine, and a 1914 Gas Engine, all still in operation and pumping water from the River Tees (though no longer supplying the town’s water!).
There’s plenty more to enjoy:
Blacksmith’s Shop demonstrations
Miniature Railway rides with the Cleveland Association of Model Engineers (small additional charge)
Refreshments in the Tea Room, or bring a picnic to enjoy on the beautiful grounds
Mark your calendars – we’ll be back in 2026 to enjoy a day of history, steam, and community fun!
July Open Day
Aycliffe Bus Museum Open Day – The Story of United
Date: July 25th, 2026 | Time: 10:00 – 14:00
Entry: Free Entry - Donations Appreciated
Step back in time and discover the fascinating history of United, at the Aycliffe Bus Museum Open Day! E
This is more than just a museum visit – it’s a full day of fun and discovery for all ages! Enjoy:
Free bus rides around the museum grounds
Classic Vehicle Show - We will have special Guests at the museum
Hands-on experiences – get on board vehicles and explore up close
Exclusive access to our archives and historic exhibits
Meet & chat with passionate museum members and volunteers
Plus, we’ll have special guests, stalls, and refreshments to make your visit even more memorable. Whether you’re a bus enthusiast, history lover, or just looking for a fantastic day out, this event is not to be missed!
Join us on July 25th and be part of the story of United – an experience that promises fun, fascination, and unforgettable memories.
Aycliffe Running Day 2026
Get ready for another fantastic transport celebration as we bring you Aycliffe Running Day 2026! Join us for a full day of classic vehicles, heritage rides, and museum attractions—perfect for enthusiasts, families, and anyone with a passion for buses.
Enjoy a brilliant line-up of activities, including:
A range of visiting and home fleet vehicles on display
Free bus journeys across the day, including special themed runs
Stalls, traders, and refreshments
Aycliffe Bus Museum open with exclusive displays and archive material
With plenty to see, ride, and explore, Aycliffe Running Day promises a fun and memorable experience for all ages.
If you’d like to enter a vehicle or book a stall, we’d love to hear from you:
Facebook Messenger
Email: aycliffe-bus@hotmail.com
We can’t wait to see you there for another brilliant day at the museum!
August Open Day
Aycliffe Bus Museum Open Day – The Story of The Newtonian
Date: August 22nd, 2026 | Time: 10:00 – 14:00
Entry: Free Entry - Donations Appreciated
Step back in time and discover the fascinating history of NDL 769G, The Newtonian, at the Aycliffe Bus Museum Open Day! Explore the story of our iconic Bristol LH, which served countless journeys with United after being lovingly brought over from the Isle of Wight.
This is more than just a museum visit – it’s a full day of fun and discovery for all ages! Enjoy:
Free bus rides around the museum grounds
Hands-on experiences – get on board vehicles and explore up close
Exclusive access to our archives and historic exhibits
Meet & chat with passionate museum members and volunteers
Plus, we’ll have special guests, stalls, and refreshments to make your visit even more memorable. Whether you’re a bus enthusiast, history lover, or just looking for a fantastic day out, this event is not to be missed!
Join us on August 22nd and be part of the story of The Newtonian – an experience that promises fun, fascination, and unforgettable memories.
Tees Cottage Pumping Station
We can’t wait to see our friends at Tees Cottage Pumping Station again throughout 2026! This historic gem has been keeping history alive for decades. Did you know? In 1849, Tees Cottage revolutionised Darlington’s water supply, providing cleaner, piped water to homes and businesses that had previously relied on contaminated wells, rivers, and rainwater tubs. By 1851, the clean water service extended to Stockton, Middlesbrough, and Yarm, thanks to its clear health benefits.
Visitors can explore some incredible machinery, including Lancashire Boilers from 1902, a 1904 steam-powered Beam Engine, and a 1914 Gas Engine, all still in operation and pumping water from the River Tees (though no longer supplying the town’s water!).
There’s plenty more to enjoy:
Blacksmith’s Shop demonstrations
Miniature Railway rides with the Cleveland Association of Model Engineers (small additional charge)
Refreshments in the Tea Room, or bring a picnic to enjoy on the beautiful grounds
Mark your calendars – we’ll be back in 2026 to enjoy a day of history, steam, and community fun!
Christmas Open Day
Get into the festive spirit at the Aycliffe Bus Museum Christmas Open Day! Join us on Saturday 12th December 2026, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM for a day full of holiday fun for all the family.
Meet Santa and share your Christmas wishes
Ride free buses around the museum grounds
Explore festive stalls with unique gifts, treats, and crafts
Enjoy family-friendly activities and much more!
Bring the whole family and make magical memories this Christmas at Aycliffe Bus Museum!
Hopetown Museum
We’re excited to announce that we’ll be heading to Hopetown on December 20th, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM for their magical Christmas celebration!
Step into the story of Christmas past with a family-friendly interactive tour of North Road Station Museum, where history, mystery, and festive cheer come together for a truly unique experience. Once your tour ends, linger and soak up the festive buzz across Ho-Ho-Hopetown. Explore the beautifully lit heritage railway site by night, perfect for creating lasting holiday memories.
Indulge in delicious festive food and drink from pop-up stalls—hot chocolate, mince pies, and other winter warmers await as you enjoy the sights, sounds, and smells of the season. Don’t miss A Hopetown Christmas Carol, the perfect way to get into the true spirit of the season.
Hop on with us for a day full of nostalgia, festive fun, and community cheer—we can’t wait to celebrate Christmas with you!
Christmas at Beamish
We’re delighted to announce that our 1964 Daimler bus will be returning to Beamish Museum to take part in the Beamish Christmas Evenings this December!
Dates & Times:
4th, 5th, 11th, 12th, 18th & 19th December 2025
5:00pm – 9:30pm
Immerse yourself in an extra-special enchanting evening at Beamish, where the museum transforms into a festive wonderland. Wander under twinkling lights, enjoy merry music and delightful decorations, and indulge in seasonal treats as you create magical Christmas memories with your loved ones. Explore the Edwardian town street, discover traditionally decorated homes and shops, and soak up the festive atmosphere.
During the daytime, our Darlington No7 will also be at Beamish as part of Christmas at Beamish, on display for visitors to admire—but please note it will not be running around the site.
Don’t miss the chance to see our classic buses helping to bring the magic of Christmas to life!
Museum Open Day (Christmas)
Christmas Open Day – Saturday, November 29th, 2025 | 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Hosted by Aycliffe & District Bus Preservation Society
Kick off the festive season with us at our Christmas Open Day! Join us on Saturday, November 29th, from 10am to 3pm for a fun-filled day the whole family will enjoy.
Hop aboard for vintage bus rides
Explore our historic vehicles up close
Festive activities and family-friendly fun throughout the day
Meet our friendly volunteers and dedicated museum team
Discover the history behind the museum and how you can get involved
Find out how to become a volunteer and help preserve local transport heritage
Whether you're a lifelong transport enthusiast or just looking for a unique way to get into the Christmas spirit, there’s something for everyone.
It’s a festive day not to be missed – we can’t wait to welcome you!
Museum Open Day
Halloween Open Day – Saturday, October 25th, 2025 | 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Hosted by Aycliffe & District Bus Preservation Society
Join us for a spook-tacular day of heritage, fun, and family-friendly activities at our Halloween Open Day! Running from 10am to 3pm, this action-packed event is perfect for all ages.
Enjoy free vintage bus rides
Get up close with our historic vehicle exhibits
Meet our passionate volunteers and museum team
Learn about the history of the museum and how we preserve transport heritage
Find out how you can get involved and become a volunteer
Whether you're a transport enthusiast, a curious visitor, or just looking for a fun day out, there’s something for everyone. Costumes welcome – and don’t forget your camera!
Bridgeton Bus Garage
Aycliffe and District Bus Preservation Society will be heading north once again this October with a special journey to the Glasgow Vintage Vehicle Trust’s Running Day at Bridgeton Bus Garage!
Date: Saturday, 11th October 2025
Destination: Bridgeton Bus Garage – a must-visit for any transport enthusiast
Suggested Donation: £25 (to help cover fuel costs)
Everyone is welcome to join us for this exciting day out celebrating vintage buses, transport heritage, and a great community atmosphere. Don’t miss your seat on this nostalgic journey!
Aycliffe Food Market
Friday 3rd October | 3pm – 8pm | Newton Aycliffe Town Centre
Expect food from around the world, sweet treats, and plenty of local favourites.
South West Durham Heritage Festival will also be brining
A heritage dig-pit for young explorers
Roaming historical characters
Community storytelling and activities
It’s set to be a fantastic evening of food, fun and heritage.
We will see you there!