Set in the heart of the Tees Valley, the Borough of Stockton-on-Tees consists of the four main towns; Stockton, Yarm, Thornaby and Billingham, with many smaller but equally delightful, villages set in surrounding, rural countryside.
In the 1700's Stockton became a major river port. Lead from the Pennines and farm produce from the region, was carried to the quayside by horse and cart, to be shipped to London and overseas.
Yarm was also a prosperous river port as far back as the 1300's, trading in wine, flax and sheepskins to tanneries along the riverbanks.
In 1822 Stockton hosted an event, which changed the face of the world for ever, and heralded a new era in trade, industry and travel.
The first rail of the Stockton & Darlington railway was laid three years later on 27th September 1825.
The world famous engineer George Stephenson manned Locomotion No 1, with his great friend, and rival engineer Timothy Hackworth acting as guard.
The opening of the world's first modern railway in 1825 encouraged the growth of industry, although it was the discovery of Ironstone in the Cleveland hills in the 1850's, which transformed the town from a market town, into one noted for its industry.
This section is packed full of things to do, places to see, where to stay and whats on in and around Stockton on Tees.
