See steam engines roar into life at Crofton Beam Engines this August bank holiday

Historic steam engines, family activities and a celebration of the Kennet & Avon Canal Trust’s 75th anniversary make Crofton Beam Engines a fascinating August bank holiday day out.

One of Britain’s most remarkable industrial heritage sites will burst into life this August bank holiday as Crofton Beam Engines celebrates the 75th anniversary of the Kennet & Avon Canal Trust.

Taking place on Sunday 30 and Monday 31 August, the annual steaming weekend offers visitors the rare opportunity to see Crofton’s famous beam engines operating in their original home near Marlborough.

Built to pump water to the summit of the Kennet & Avon Canal, the engines worked continuously for 145 years before the pumping station closed in 1959. Their future was secured just a few years later when a dedicated group of steam enthusiasts, supported by the newly formed Kennet & Avon Canal Association – now the Kennet & Avon Canal Trust – launched an ambitious restoration project.

The trust purchased the pumping station in 1968 for just £75, beginning decades of work to restore both the building and its extraordinary machinery. Today, Crofton is believed to be home to the oldest working steam-powered pumping engines still operating in their original location anywhere in the world.

To mark the trust’s milestone anniversary, visitors can explore a special exhibition celebrating 75 years of restoring and protecting the Kennet & Avon Canal. The display looks back at the trust’s achievements while highlighting current conservation projects, future plans and opportunities for people to volunteer or become involved.

The exhibition also showcases the trust’s visitor experiences, including canal boat trips and specially adapted accessible boats designed for wheelchair users and visitors with additional needs.

Families will find plenty to keep younger visitors entertained too. Children can follow a themed trail, enjoy self-guided craft activities and discover the fascinating workings of canal locks through interactive demonstrations.

The Smithy Tea Room will be serving refreshments throughout the weekend, while visitors are also welcome to bring a picnic and enjoy the picturesque canal-side setting.

The site is open from 10am to 5pm, with access to the Engine House between 10.30am and 4.30pm. Visitors can arrive by road, bicycle, canal or on foot along the towpath, with free parking available during steaming days.

Find out more at croftonbeamengines.org.

Share