Christmas opening hours

Normal operating hours (Tuesday to Sunday, 10am-5pm) will resume from Tuesday 6th January. Thank you.

Have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

A Christmas Night at the Museum

A Christmas Night at the Museum

As night falls, Ho-Ho-Hopetown transforms into a glowing Christmas wonderland... 

– and you’re invited to explore it all! From twinkling lights and glowing streetlamps to the scent of festive food in the air, our magical Christmas evening is packed with festive cheer, perfect for a family night out or a cosy evening with friends.

Wander through our historic railway heritage site brought to life with the sparkle of Christmas. Enjoy a night inside North Road Station Museum where you can jump aboard the immersive-experience ride Experiment!.

Children can let off steam in the fully illuminated Wagon Woods play area, while grown-ups take in the sights and savour the atmosphere. The whole site is buzzing with activity – a perfect blend of history and Christmas magic.

The grandeur of the The Elves' Giftworks comes alive in the night time. Step into a twinkling world of festive fun as the elves prepare for the busiest time of the year. Peek inside the hustle and bustle of the sorting room, where letters from around the world are magically sorted and sent to Santa. Take a moment to pen your own letter then post it straight into the North Pole mailbox! Who knows, you might just get a response.

Be one of the first to visit the Victorian Carousel for a traditional ride from times gone by. Will you choose to ride the horse, the cockerel or the sleigh?

A popular feature of our previous Night at the Museum - the silent disco will be back! Fancy a festive fandango? Don a pair of headphones at the Jingle Bell Ball and let your body move and your voice belt out some of the Christmas classics.

The doors to Darlington Locomotive Works will swing wide open with a jingle and a cheer so you can marvel at the locomotive Tornado which is transformed into a dazzling winter wonder on rails.

Make sure to grab a mulled wine or a creamy hot chocolate and indulge in festive treats from Clocktower Café. 

Whether you come for the lights, the laughter, or the late-night mince pies, a magical Christmas evening at Ho-Ho-Hopetown promises to be a night to remember.

  • 20 December 2025 - 20 December 2025
  • 18:00-20:30
  • Christmas at Hopetown
  • Prices from: Free

Ticketing information

Saturday 20 December, 6pm-8.30pm

Free for ages 0-17

£5 for ages 18+

Tickets can be booked online or in person at the Welcome Desk in the Goods Shed.

If booking tickets online, make sure to create an account. This way, you can amend your booking with ease. You can access your account here.

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