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House

Stephenson's Historic House is a 19th-century house and garden in County Durham, England. Situated south of Newcastle and next to the town of Darlington, it was the home of the railways pioneer George Stephenson and now considered one of the most important historic houses in the region.

Explore over 12 rooms in the house including the office room, library, workshop, dining room and find out more about the history of the man that changed the way we travel today.

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Garden

Explore Stephenson's Gardens, the ever-evolving garden surrounding one of the most popular country houses in County Durham. The 30-acre garden is the product of nearly 200 years of careful cultivation and includes a park, lake, fountains, sculptures and more.

Marvel at the beauty of flora and fauna found in these gardens, discover the pond at the lake or find your own favourite spot - the historic garden has something for everyone.

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Maze

The maze has been a favourite day out for children since 1973. It can be found next to the house and stretches for over 4 acres, making it one of the biggest and most beautiful maze gardens in the North-East.

Our maze offers hours of adventures and excitement for all ages, with tunnels, secret doors, water-fountains and hidden treasures that can be taken home as souvenirs if they are found.

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Picture presenting a blue and white cup of tea on a table with food and milk jar in the background

Café

The café is one of the new features of Stephenson's Historic House and it first opened in 2009. It can host up to 100 people and is a great place to rest in between visiting the numerous attractions of our estate or to dine.

Savor a coup of coffee or tea while also enjoying our many delicacies such as cookies, cakes, appetizers and even breakfast, brunch or dinner, specially prepared by our chefs.

Find out more about the café

George Stephenson (9 June 1781 - 12 August 1848) was an English civil engineer and mechanical engineer. Renowned as the "Father of Railways", Stephenson was considered by the Victorians a great example of diligent application and thirst for improvement. Self-help advocate Samuel Smiles particularly praised his achievements. His chosen rail gauge, sometimes called 'Stephenson gauge', was the basis for the 4 feet 8+1/2 inches (1.435 m) standard gauge used by most of the world's railways.