Hopetown Darlington's Heritage Weekends take place on the first full weekend of each month. Saturdays are family days and Sundays are railway enthusiast days. Visitors can access Darlington Locomotive Works and the 1861 Shed, see locomotives under restoration, speak with volunteers, explore ongoing locomotive construction and take part in changing railway-themed activities, demonstrations and talks. The remaining verified 2026 dates are Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 November, and Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 December, from 10am to 3pm. Admission is free. A separate free ticket is needed for each day if attending both Saturday and Sunday, and tickets can be booked online or obtained in person at Hopetown's Welcome Desk.