Hopetown Darlington gets 94% VisitEngland score after visit

Hopetown in Darlington has been awarded 94% by VisitEngland’s Quality Assured Visitor Attraction Scheme in an inspection that took place two weeks after it opened.

The scheme, which accredits attractions including museums, safari parks and art galleries, praised the £37m development which celebrates the town's proud 200-year history of railway heritage.

Hopetown, Darlington. (Image: NORTHERN ECHO)

Amongst its appraisals was North Road Station Museum, which they deemed "superb" and said historic buildings had been "lovingly restored". 

Hopetown can now boast an 'attraction marque' from the board - and those running the site say it's a "fantastic" achievement.

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Hopetown, Darlington. (Image: NORTHERN ECHO)

Leona White-Hannant, Development Director said: “Given that we have only been open for two weeks at the time of the visit, it is a fantastic achievement and testament to everyone’s hard work.”

Councillor Libby McCollom, Cabinet Member for Local Services, added: “The feedback from visitors has been incredibly positive in our first few weeks of operation.

“I am delighted that the high quality of experience, and the work of everyone involved, is being recognised by VisitEngland and hope that more people will visit and enjoy Hopetown Darlington as we build towards our 2025 celebrations.”