Crofton Beam Engines

Crofton Beam Engines is a fabulous place to bring the little ones. One of the engines is over 200 years old and still works, fed by a coal fired Lancashire Bolier!
The grounds make a perfect spot for a picnic as they overlook the Kennet 7 Avon Canal.

The engines are operated by friendly and informative volunteers, who keep the boiler stoked with coal and supply explanations about how the engines and pumps work. Great for any budding engineers or historians.
You also get to learn about how the largest beam engines in the world pump canal water from the bottom a hill back to the top, to change the water levels in the canals. There are also smaller engines to investigate.

Please be aware that although the engines are always there to look at, they will only be working (in steam) on certain days such as Bank Holidays so it is a good idea to check the website to find out when this is. Although the engines are still worth seeing even when static, the steam days may be a bit more exciting for the kids.