A fantastic museum and well worth a visit but only open two days a week at present due to a lack of volunteers . Friendly welcome and lots to see on site with a great display of mining memorabilia from the Durham coal-field as well as locomotives and rolling-stock . You need to visit.......

Really great first time visit to this fascinating site. Enthusiastic and very friendly volunteers are happy to tell you anything you want to know as they take you around. Will be returning to take more photos very soon!

Went a few years back for the 1940s weekend I believe. There was loads on that day including WW2 displays and stalls, was a lovely day out. The museum side to Bowes was nice and very interesting. I would give 5 stars but unfortunately there's just not enough events on at Bowes and only open certain days.

Lovely little train museum that I brought my classes of 5-7 year old and they all had a great time. The staff were very accomadting and helped to keep the children entertained throughout the whole day. The children got to go inside old trains, learn about the history golf the trains being used with the Cole mines, have a little go at blacksmithing and plant flowers in the allotment. Really recommend this place for anyone who has a interest or/and are teaching about trains, coal mines or George Stephenson.

Great place to visit if you are interested in history and the industrial north east, guide was very informative, lots to see, locomotives, workshops, forges, theres a cafe selling hot and cold drinks , cake and snacks, very pleasant staff , large car park and parking for disabled, run entirely by volunteers who have a passion for what they do .

Very interesting, you can early 1900 coal mine and railway work shops, engine shed. Photos from 1940s war weekend. Good fun but educational too!