Tanfield’s Historic Locomotive Shed Gets A Fresh Look

The world’s oldest working railway has received a careful touch-up, as specialist decorators Bagnalls completed a major restoration of Tanfield Railway’s famed locomotive shed — believed to be the oldest still in use anywhere in the world.

Dating back to 1725, the shed once formed part of a pioneering network built to carry coal from the Tanfield collieries to the River Tyne. Its survival is not only a testament to early industrial engineering but also to the generations of volunteers and staff who have kept it operational.

Today, it stands as a proud symbol of Britain’s transport heritage.

To preserve that legacy, Bagnalls undertook a painstaking limewashing of 500 square metres of the structure, applying Earle’s Traditional Limewash by hand to maintain the building’s historical authenticity. The aim was not to modernise, but to revive — allowing the shed’s character and centuries-old craftsmanship to shine through.

“This was a wonderful project to work on,” said Contracts Manager Roy Flowdy.

“We needed to complete all the works before the museum’s busy festive period. With the support of the museum’s staff we were able to plan our works and ensure all the redecoration was completed on time."

“Our team of painters took great pride in completing this project, knowing that their small contribution was adding to the upkeep of a local historic attraction. It’s projects like these that remind us how craftsmanship and heritage go hand in hand.”

As Tanfield Railway prepares for its seasonal events, the rejuvenated shed stands ready to welcome visitors exploring its locomotives, vintage steam memorabilia, and steam-hauled journeys across six miles of wooded valleys and countryside. The restoration serves as a tribute to the many people who work tirelessly to safeguard this remarkable piece of living history.