The second phase of the Hopetown Darlington project, set to open in late 2025, is an immersive motion-based time travel ride called “Experiment!”. Figment developed a 9-minute family-friendly and accessible pre-show and ride film where visitors meet Georgie and Stephen in their steampunk lab, before embarking on an adventure exploring Darlington’s impact throughout the world. Visitors sit in a themed ride carriage and journey through time, exploring the physical and social impacts of Darlington on passenger railways. The experience includes live-action filming, animation, and archive newsreels, immersing guests in historical events such as women working on the railways during WWI and evacuees being transported during WWII. Seasonal versions for Christmas and Halloween were also created, totalling 45 minutes of 11K resolution immersive content, with a 5.1 surround sound mix and 4DFX effects including wind and rumble seats to enhance the experience.

For more information visit the official website.