What is Locomotion No.1?

Locomotion No.1 was the first steam locomotive to haul a passenger train on a public railway. Built in 1825 by George and Robert Stephenson, it played a key role in the early development of railways in the UK.

Key Facts About Locomotion No.1:

• First Public Passenger Service – On 27 September 1825, it ran on the Stockton and Darlington Railway, marking the start of modern rail travel.
• Designed by the Stephensons – Built at Stephenson’s works in Newcastle, it was an early example of a practical steam locomotive.
• Performance – It had a 4-wheel design, used a boiler and vertical cylinders, and could reach speeds of around 12 mph.
• Legacy – While quickly surpassed by more advanced locomotives, Locomotion No.1 proved that steam power was viable for public transport.

Today, the original Locomotion No.1 is preserved at the Head of Steam – Darlington Railway Museum and replicas can be seen at railway heritage sites. It remains a landmark in railway history, symbolising the birth of the railway age in Britain.