Step into our industrial and social history
From a time when
Steam was king
Thank you!
Thank you to all our visitors and supporters for a wonderful 2021 season. We are now closed to the public until spring 2022. During the winter our volunteer team will be working hard to prepare for opening again. Please see our Boiler Appeal page to find out how you can help keep Crofton steaming into the future.
Winter Working Days
We are hoping to organise some days during the closed season for visitors to see the works being done at the pumping station. Dates to be confirmed. Please keep an eye on our social media and What’s On pages for details.
The Engineman’s Rest Café
The Café is closed until further notice.
Bring your own picnic to enjoy in the grounds!
Learning at Crofton
Whether you are a school, college or simply a steam enthusiast we can provide learning opportunities to suit your requirements. From School Tours, Talks and Tours to the general public, Steaming Events and our Personal Steam Experience, we have plenty for you to choose from.
Explore Crofton’s Engines
A team of dedicated volunteers and staff looks after the whole site. They do that to preserve this amazing landmark from the past in order that you, and future generations, can see how our great, pioneering engineers tackled early developments in motive power and pumping technology. When you visit, you will see why Crofton is regarded as such a gem in the heritage of UK engineering.
Get Involved
Crofton is powered by volunteers! Come and join our friendly team at Crofton Beam Engines, and help to show our wonderful engines and beautiful site to our visitors. We have a wide range of volunteer roles, so there is a task waiting for you whatever your background. Roles include Front of house and tour guides, Engineering, Ground work, Building Maintenance, and Visitor Services.
Latest News
Art, Heritage Open Days, September Steaming and a Boiler Appeal
Coming up to the end of the summer season and it’s busier than ever at Crofton! The August Bank Holiday steaming was one of the busiest we have known, and for once the late season weather was on our side. It was a great opportunity to spread the word among our visitors about the launch…
Read more Art, Heritage Open Days, September Steaming and a Boiler Appeal
Steaming Days in August & September 2021
Don’t miss the last steaming days of the season at Crofton! At the July steaming, the Boulton and Watt engine challenged the Crofton Beam Team by developing a hitch. Even with the attention lavished by our volunteers, things don’t always go to plan! The engine was brought to a standstill, and visitors were treated to…
Archimedes Screw Pump Conservation
A rare chance to see conservation work in progress Our example of this ingenious form of pump, from the days before steam, was recovered from the Kennet and Avon Canal at Hungerford in 1973. It arrived at Crofton during 2010 and has been on display in a custom-built shelter on site. However, time and the…
Visit by narrowboat
and stop by on the
Kennet & Avon Canal
A Word from our Patron Phil Harding
“I’ve known Crofton all my life and still enjoy visiting this special place. Crofton is important both as part of Wiltshire’s social history and internationally as a working steam pumping station”
