Steampunk Weekend at Hopetown
Discover Darlington's story of engineering, ideas and invention a perfect location for a Steampunk Weekend.
15th & 16th November 2025
We are excited to announce as part of the new visitor attraction Hopetown Darlington we have added a Steampunk Weekend to the calendar for you to all come and explore.
We are currently inviting exhibitors to book their space (indoor and outdoor options) at this event plus all ideas and suggestions for the programme welcome. Application link to be part of this fantastic new event: https://forms.gle/19tf6q4gyMZEW7c2A
Current Confirmed Exhibitor List:
ABYTAT - The first steam train ran from Stockton to Darlington 200 years ago and ABYTAT INDEPENDENT TRADERS are carrying on that tradition by bringing their innovative range of steampunk hats from their base in Stockton on Tees to Hopetown. With prices starting from only £20 for their hats, and from only £3 for a lively selection of bohemian jewellery, they'll be delighted to introduce festival visitors to participating in the steampunk movement - without charging them a fortune. ABYTAT
Balefire - craft their small batch hot sauce prioritising the art of fermentation to balance taste and heat. They use pro-biotic fermentation techniques to age the chilli then blend that with craft beer and a touch of artisan vinegar to create an impact of flavour, spice and acidity. As a small, family run producer consisting of chefs and craft brewers Balefire are able to experiment with sauces and vinegars marrying science and creativity to craft truly unique produce. Balefire
BBQ Steam Train - Smoked is our US style BBQ using our unique "Smoketrain" to serve a range of fresh dishes. Encased with heavy gauge steel is our smoking over and BBQ. Fired by wood and charcoal offering a variety of foods - brisket pulled cooked in Jack Daniels sauce, pork, lamb. Steak burgers cooked on hot coals with cheddar cheese, pickles, crispy onions, bacon and jalapeno.
Crafts by Chelle - selling crochet houseplants potted into recycled cups and pots, all of which are sourced from charity shops and local sales. Where possible, even the yarn is recycled or second hand, enabling me to make use of items others no longer have a need for. Each plant is uniquely paired to its pot, as different pots suit different plants, ranging from snake plants and cacti to strings of hearts and orchids. Crafts by Chelle
Crystal Flakes - I make and sell mostly have an alternative gothic and steampunk style theme. Which includes earrings and brooches. But I also make beautiful crystal and glass beaded items of jewellery like bracelets, necklaces and earrings. Crystal Flakes
Dreaded Mead - Our meads are made with all natural products. Mead is an ancient drink made with honey. We then flavour our meads with fruits, chillis and spices depending on the flavour.
Karen's Resin Krafts - bespoke handmade pieces from epoxy resin. Each piece is unique made with glitters ,mica powder colours and added extras. Karen's Resin Krafts
Le Hat Noir - by Melanie Grieve is where you’ll find unique, hand-crafted headwear for all your special occasions. With over 20 years experience as a milliner, Melanie makes custom headwear that’s tailored to individual order, across a wide range of genres and occasions. Lehatnoir
Of Vine and Thorn - I create ethically sourced curio and taxidermy pieces. Mainly working with animal bones and bugs I create one off artistic pieces. Of Vine and Thorn
Ornamentology - creates bespoke Hear wear, Journals and Goggles for your delight. Commissions positively encouraged Ornamentology
Red Robin Mixed Media & Textiles - We use locally sourced wool fibres from North Yorkshire and produce felted landscapes and floral embroidery. Botanical cast are also handmade using fresh flowers and an array of painting media. Red Robin Mixed Media & Textiles
Vox Frames - Hand-painted statues & minis from your favorite games & movies! 🎨 We display them in unique frames & baubles. 🏰✨ 3D printing services available. Let us bring your favorite characters to life! Vox Frames