Heritage Open Day at Crofton Beam Engines

Whatever your interest in heritage, Crofton has something for you. Our buildings are Grade I listed Georgian buildings, purpose built to house our amazing stationary steam engines. The engines themselves include the oldest Beam Engine in the world, an original 1812 Boulton & Watt, still in its original location, still capable of doing its original job. Our 1846 Harvey of Hayle Cornish Beam Engine sits side by side with the Boulton and Watt engines, so if you are interested the engineering of the industrial revolution Crofton can provide you with plenty to see.

You have the opportunity to join a one-hour tour throughout the Station, led by dedicated knowledgeable volunteers, to learn the fascinating history and engineering of the site. Of particular interest this year will be the fascinating Everyday Histories of the Crofton Families who have lived and worked at the Pumping Station.

These tours will run at 1100, 1200, 1400 and 1500

The Smithy Tea Room will be open from 1030 to 1600.

Since we are a unique, canal side site, you can also easily visit the Kennet and Avon Canal via our canal tunnel. Take a stroll along the tow path or visit Wilton Wind Mill via the footpaths alongside Wilton Water or along the Roman road (now a footpath). You can also see trains passing along Brunels Railway, taking passengers from London to Bristol and beyond, as it has for 185 years.

We will not be in steam for this event.