Visitor Information

Coronavirus / COVID-19

We are following Government guidance for visitor attractions to protect your safety, and that of our volunteers and staff. 

Main Gate

Please note that the only access to the site is via the main gate opposite the car park. No access from the lower canal entrance at lock 60 due to ongoing works by the Canal and River Trust.

Car Park Charges – the car park is closed when the site is closed

There is a tarmacked and bay-marked chargeable Pay and Display car park at Crofton Beam Engines with 32 spaces for cars, 2 accessible spaces and a bay for motorcycles.

All car park charges go directly to supporting the charitable work of the Kennet & Avon Trust and support our conservation and care for Crofton as a unique part of the nation’s industrial heritage.

No overnight parking is allowed in the car park except when there are special evening events.

On large steaming and other event days ample additional parking is available in the adjacent field, accessible via the short track to opposite the main gate. The grass surface of this parking area may not be suitable for all vehicles and use is at the driver’s discretion and risk.

Coach Parking: there is normally space for 1 x full size coach by prior arrangement for specific directions and assistance. Alternatively, for passenger drop offs, we can provide details of parking areas in the neighbouring area which again can be arranged in advance.

Refreshments and Picnics

You are welcome to bring your own picnic and enjoy it in our extensive grounds, where new picnic tables have been installed. The picnic area is not under cover.  Please note that the only access to the site is via the main gate opposite the car park. No access from the lower canal entrance at lock 60 due to ongoing works by the Canal and River Trust.

Dogs Policy

We welcome Assistance Dogs throughout the site without restriction. We welcome all dogs on leads in the grounds, but not inside the Boiler and Engine Houses. There is a designated area to tether dogs outside the Boiler House and water bowls are provided.

Guidebooks

We have two guidebooks: The Crofton Pumping Station Guide which is a 38-page visitor guide providing a succinct history and information about the site and the engines. The Crofton Story by Ian Broom is the definitive history and guide to Crofton Beam Engines providing a complete and authoritative history. Both are perfect companions to a visit. They are on sale in the shop and with tickets, and can also be purchased by mail order by contacting the Site Office.

Public Entrances

Please note that the only access to the site is via the main gate opposite the car park. No access from the lower canal entrance at lock 60 due to ongoing works by the Canal and River Trust.

Toilets

We have modern, accessible unisex visitor toilet facilities. There is a baby changing table and nappy bin within the accessible facility.

Visitor Feedback

We welcome visitor feedback. Visitors may provide feedback online using our social media channels (Facebook, Twitter and Instagram) and TripAdvisor . Visitors are invited to complete a survey form.