Gateway to the world
A collection of nationally significant paintings will go on display together for the first time at Preston Park Museum.
Three iconic masterpieces by celebrated Victorian artist William Powell Frith will be on display at Preston Park Museum, in a landmark exhibition that brings them together for the first time.
The Railway Station, Life at the Seaside (Ramsgate Sands), and Derby Day will be displayed as part of Gateway to the World. This is a first for the North East, offering visitors a rare chance to view these nationally significant works without travelling outside the region. The paintings are on loan from celebrated national collections, with Ramsgate Sands and The Railway Station, lent by His Majesty The King from The Royal Collection and Derby Day on loan from Manchester City Galleries.
Frith's panoramic paintings are rich with life, drama, and social commentary, capturing the transformative impact of the railways on Victorian society. From bustling platforms to lively seaside resorts and racetracks, these scenes reflect a world opening up to travel, leisure, and new experiences.
This powerful exhibition will highlight the important role that the birth of the railway played in creating tourism through day trips and travel opportunities for all, regardless of class.
Booking information
This is a drop-in event. You do not need to book.
Entry for this event is included in the price of a museum admission pass.
We recommend purchasing your museum pass online before your visit, however you can buy it when you arrive.
Buy your museum admission pass
Last admission to the museum is 3:30pm.
Important information
If you already have a valid museum pass, do not forget to bring it with you.
The Tracks of Change exhibition series has been made possible thanks to funding secured through the S&DR 200 Festival Programme in partnership with:
- Darlington Borough Council
- Durham County Council
- Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council
Major funders include Arts Council England and Tees Valley Combined Authority.
IMAGE: Paintings lent by His Majesty The King from the Royal Collection: ·The Railway Station by William Powell Frith - William Powell Frith (1819-1909) - The Railway Station © Royal Collection Enterprises Limited 2025 | Royal Collection Trust
