Papplewick Pumping Station

Papplewick Pumping Station is one of the best preserved water Pumping Stations in the British Isles and is protected as a Scheduled Ancient Monument.

It may not sound exciting, but imagine a pair of gargantuan see-saws, which are decorated with beautiful images of birds, flowers, fish and scroll work!

The Victorians were under budget when they built the station, so they used the surplus for decoration, even though they were never expected to be seen by the public!

If you would like to see the station in action, check online for ‘steaming day' events that are held monthly, and which also offer guided tours of the underground reservoir, definitely worth a look. On these days, the steam boilers are lit and the pumps are working. Kids will marvel at the noise, heat, and smell of coal and oil that surrounds them as they discover the working engines over 3 different levels.

There is a great collection of small steam engines to enjoy, plus a steam mini railway, which you can ride for a reasonable price. The grounds are lovely, with trees and flowers to see, plus a lake full of hungry fish to feed! Nom nom nom.

Please note the limited opening times during the year and plan ahead.

Dogs welcome but must remain on a lead and cannot enter the Engine House, cafe or reservoir. You must clean up after your dog!

Partial access for disabled visitors. Accessible toilets on site. See website through the link for the full Access Statement.

Please note we are not in Papplewick village!

Toilets

Two accessible toilets both with baby changing facilities are provided. Standard toilet block also.

Gift shop

Items relating to the Pumping Station plus children's pocket money items are for sale here.

Eating information

Papplewick Pumping Station has a cafe serving teas, coffees and sandwiches/snacks.