Ale By Rail 2026

 Ale By Rail 2026 was a huge hit. Thank you to all visitors who came to support our event, enjoying live music, good food and great drinks.

With the nice weather, the yard apron beer garden quickly filled up.

With all designated seating taken, some decide to bring their own.

Along with the variety of ales, beers and ciders on offer, visitors could grab a taste of Brazilian or artisan sausage street food.

Our Ale By Rail headline sponsors Vertu Hyundai Silverlink showcase 4 cars outside the museum.

Ethan, Cameron and Mark man the beer token stall, selling each token for exchange one half pint.

It's all smiles at the opening of the 'Billy Bar' at Ale By Rail 2026.

Alice, Michael and Dan takeover serving from the 'Billy Bar' going into the evening music performances.

The thirst for the wide selection of ales, beers and ciders does not stop at the 'Billy Bar'.

With live performances from local bands throughout the night, the museum is also busy with supporters.

Late into the evening Metro 4001 repurposes into a makeshift rave venue.

Preparation for Ale By Rail 2026

With our annual Ale By Rail event just around the corner, it has been all hands on deck transforming the museum into a live music space for our introductory weekend event The Engine Shed Sessions.

 

All the gear for our constructed 'Billy Bar' was collected from the guys at the Tyneside & Northumberland CAMRA (Campaign For Real Ale) Branch - a huge thank you to their volunteers for assisting in constructing the bar and making sure it all works.

Meanwhile, back at Middle Engine Lane, Michael (L), Alice (C) and Michael (R) complete decorating the museum with bunting after both museum engines and NER Parcel Van were shunted out of the museum.

Once complete, Richard can begin the final tweaks to the stage lighting and test the audio from the stage in readiness for artists performing on The Engine Shed Sessions line up.

The museum and 'Billy Bar' all set up.