Crofton Beam Engines in Steam July 26th and 27th

About

Come and see our magnificent beam engines at work pumping water from the lower level of the Kennet and Avon Canal to the summit of the canal, just as they have done for over 200 years. Crofton is one of the most important Industrial Heritage sites in Britain and was crucial to the operation of the Kennet and Avon Canal. Watch our Lancashire boiler being fuelled, our engines being driven and our beams operating the pumps to raise water 40 feet to feed the canal at its highest point and keep the canal locks full of water.

Our highly knowledgeable volunteers will be very happy to show you how the pumping station works and to answer questions you may have about Crofton.

Children find our engines fascinating, as well as learning about Crofton they can use our play area and take part in free craft activities.

Our Smithy Tea Room will be open, offering hot and cold drinks, cake and savoury snacks. Visitors are welcome to bring a picnic, enjoy our beautiful site, the wildlife and to watch boats and trains pass by.

Crofton and the canal are teaming with wildlife, particularly birds, see our resident Kite and Rook populations and maybe catch a flash of blue as the kingfisher speeds by.

Visitors can get to Crofton by road or via the canal. We have a pay car park with disabled parking. Those who walk or cycle along the canal towpath can reach the site across canal bridge 101 and a short walk East along the lane or via the tunnel under the railway at the Crofton Pumping Station Lock.

We welcome well behaved dogs on leads on site, however, because of the nature of our buildings and machines, only assistance dogs are allowed in the pumping station.