General information

Did you know... over the years Stockton has produced some great stars and some big names have passed through the town and left a lasting impression.

London's famous 'Big Ben Bell' was transported from West Hartlepool in 1855 after being cast in the Norton Iron Works.

The world's first passenger railway ran between Stockton and Darlington. George Stephenson manned the Locomotion No. 1 engine on its' first journey in 1825. The original train can be seen at Darlington Railway Museum.

Star Trek's "to boldly go where no man has gone before..." is based on one of Captain Cook's logs

Cliff Richard and the Shadows wrote the lyrics to Summer Holiday whilst performing at The Globe Theatre, Stockton.

Ivy Close, Britain's first ever beauty contest winner was born in Stockton in 1890. She later went on to become a prominent silent movie star

In 1826, Stockton chemist, John Walker was responsible for the invention of the 'Lucifer' or friction match. A specialist in explosives he discovered the formula after accidentally striking his mixing stick against his hearth and creating fire. However he never patented his invention and it was later copied by a London chemist. A bronze bust in John Walker Square commemorates his achievement and a 3ft high match can be found on the roundabout at the junction of Church Road and Portrack Lane

Preston Hall Museum's most famous exhibit is 'The Diceplayers' painted in 17th century by Georges de la Tour.

‘Peg Powler – a HAG from old English folklore is said to inhabit the River Tees’