Crofton in Steam over the Bank Holiday
24 May @ 10:00 am – 4:30 pm
Crofton Beam Engines are a remarkable feat of engineering from the early nineteenth century, with two huge beam engines, powered by a Lancashire Boiler, that can lift a tonne of water a stroke to feed the highest point of the Kennet and Avon Canal.
Our steaming days are a chance for the public to see these historic engines working. They once played a significant role in the operation of the Kennet and Avon Canal, helping to supply water to the highest point of the canal network.
Something for all the family.
As well as seeing our magnificent engines at work using steam generated by our vary large Lancashire boiler there will be plenty for a family to take part in.
We will have our famous Duck Race at 12:15. Participants can watch their chosen duck race along our artificial stream from the giant pump to the bridge. A prize for the first and last duck.
Celebrating the 75th Anniversary of the Kennet and Avon Canal Trust founding we will have a special colouring in competition running on all four days.
A special springtime trail will be available for children to complete and receive a prize for correct entries.
Families can have fun in our self-guided crafting area where we provide the material for children and adults to paint, colour in, and make pictures.
All activities are charged at £1 each. In our beautiful grounds, children can also play on a seesaw and imagine what it is like to be a beam engine. They can play with our miniature lock system, pump water from the top to the bottom and raise the lock gates to see the water flow downhill.
Our Smithy Tea Room will be open serving a wide range of teas, coffee, hot chocolate, cakes and some savoury snacks.
We have beautiful grounds where you can see Wilton Water, the Kennet and Avon Canal and the modern Great Western Railway which follows the track of Brunel’s original railway.
Crofton Beam Engines offer a chance for everyone to see, hear and watch two mighty behemoths of the Industrial Revolution at work. Whether you are interested in Industrial Heritage, heavy engineering, or are looking for a great place to visit for all the family, Crofton has something for you.
