In this latest pictorial article we feature images from the Tyne and Wear Metro taken in early April 2026. Ian Buck is your guide to seeing both new and old units in action on the network as it continues its transition period.
With much of the Tyne and Wear Metro network having been converted from the extensive local railway network it retains some historic stations, one of which is that at Tynemouth. That is where this image of 555 045 was captured as it pulls in with a test run. This unit was delivered on 6th February 2026 and has yet to enter passenger service. Taken 7th April 2026.
555 041 also arrives at Tynemouth on 7th April 2026 with a service to St James. Delivered on 4th September 2025 it entered service on 18th December 2025.
555 027 has now been in service for more than a year having carried its first passengers on 26th March 2025 following its arrival in the northeast on 25th October 2024. 7th April 2026 sees it at Tynemouth.
Whitley Bay is a station which has seen a lot of investment in repairing damage to the Grade II listed structure and here we see 555 019 calling bound for St James on 7th April 2026. 8th August 2025 for its delivery and 28th November 2025 for entry into service.
On 8th April 2026 we see two unidentified original Metrocars crossing Byker Bridge.
Here we see 555 041 arriving at Wallsend on its way to St James on 9th April 2026. This unit had entered service on 18th December 2025 and was delivered on 4th September 2025.
The iconic Tyne Bridge is crossed by two unidentified Metrocars on 10th April 2026. Scenes of this type of unit crossing the river have been captured many times in the past but won’t be many more times. (All Photographs by Ian Buck)