Crofton Beam Engines
Step into our industrial and social history from a time when steam was king
75th anniversary of the creation of the Kennet & Avon Canal Trust 2026 marks the 75th anniversary of the creation of the Kennet & Avon Canal Trust, which led the fight to save this remarkable waterway from oblivion. Crofton Beam Engines is a branch of the Kennet and Avon Canal Trust and we will be …
The Jet Pioneer Crofton Beam Engines in conjunction with the Kennet Valley Hall is very pleased to have the opportunity invite you to an evening talk to hear about the pioneering engineer Sir Frank Whittle, inventor of the modern jet engine. We all take it for granted that flying in jet aircraft for a holiday …
During the winter months, Crofton volunteers undertake essential maintenance repairs to our Grade One listed industrial heritage site. Unfortunately the guttering on the corner of the Engine House had been loosened by recent high winds. Scaffolding to get to the guttering has to be very high, this is not a job for the faint hearted! …
Side Boiler House Wall Renovations Winter works this week at Crofton Beam Engines saw the removal of panelling that was covering the back wall of the side boiler house. This revealed the original brick work. The aim is to restore these walls back to their original period look. However the first task will be to …
Crofton Beam Engines Heritage Open Day September 14th 2025 Free entry to Crofton Beam Engines to celebrate Heritage Open Day. Our engines will be resting but you can join one of our guided tours to learn more about them and this fascinating site, the history of Crofton and its importance for the Kennet and Avon …
Crofton Beam Engines – Trials an alternative to coal. For over 200 years Crofton Beam Engines has always burnt coal as the fuel for heating water in the boiler to produce steam to drive the beam engines. Crofton Beam Engines did another steam test earlier this year using a bio fuel made from rape seed …
Annual Teddy Bears Picnic on Sunday 8th June. Crofton Beam Engines will be hosting their annual Teddy Bears Picnic on Sunday 8th June. Bring a picnic lunch, your favourite stuffed animal and the family to Crofton for lawn games, stories, a teddy bear trail and crafts. Join one of our two 20-minute Story Sessions in …
The ladies have control. During our recent Early May Steaming Weekend. Two of our Crofton lady volunteers had control of the driving platform on the Harveys of Hale 1846 beam engine. They both Demonstrated their driving skills with great confidence, and had fun at the same time. If you missed them, they will be back …
Crofton Beam Engines and the renovation of “The Smithy” The Trust purchased a small stone and brick-built building that sits on the Crofton site in November 2023. The building was almost certainly the old Smith’s shop during most of Crofton’s life and has obviously been used as a workshop for a very long time. When …
The clock is ticking down to our first public steaming of the 2025 summer season. Crofton Beam Engines will be open and in Steam to celebrate Easter and our great industrial heritage. Come along to see our steam engines working as they have done since 1813. There is plenty to entertain everyone, adults and children …
Ensuring Safety and Efficiency in Heritage Engineering Crofton Beam Engines, an iconic piece of British industrial heritage. Had its annual boiler safety steam test inspection on March 25th. It ensures our continued operation and upholds the highest standards of safety. This rigorous process is crucial for maintaining the integrity of our historic steam engines and …
Georgian Lantern window & Engine House windows damaged by weather. Crofton’s unique Georgian lantern window, situated on the roof of our boiler house, built in 1809, needs restoration. At the same time, the windows on the Engine House are also being repaired and repainted as necessary. Crofton Beam Engines sits on a promontory and is …
