If so, then a day programme Experience Steam at Papplewick Pumping Station is just for you.

As well as helping to stoke the hand fired Lancashire boilers, you will also get the opportunity to drive one of the original twin beam engines, built by James Watt & Co. in 1884.

You will also enjoy a guided tour around the Pumping Station including a behind the scenes view of areas not generally accessible to the public.
Lunch and refreshments will be provided and you will receive complimentary membership of the Papplewick Association - giving you free unlimited access on weekly open days and to weekend steaming events for a whole year.

Outline Programme & Timetable

The aim of the Workshop activities is to afford you the opportunity to enjoy a unique hands on experience.

All workshop activities are led by experienced volunteers.

The hands-on nature of the day requires all participants to heed carefully instructions of our volunteers at all times to ensure safety.

You are advised to wear comfortable old clothing and stout shoes. (Boiler suit recommended.)

Participants must be over 18 years of age and moderately fit to take part.

Tuition will be in small groups. Each group will work on a carousel basis to enable all participants to cover the three main workshop activities and enjoy the broadest range of experience possible on the day.

Timetable - Actual timings may vary slightly on the day

9.00 Coffee, welcome & safety briefing

9.30 Introductory Tour

10.15 Workshop 1

11.30 Coffee

11.45 Workshop 2

13.00 Lunch

14.00 Workshop 3

15.00 Tea

15.15 Visit to reservoir

16.45 Presentation of Certificates

17.00 Departure

Workshop 1- Lancashire Boilers Learn the skills of stoking and control of the fire.

Workshop 2 - Steam Beam Engines Tenting* - preparation, driving and supervision of our James Watt engines.

Workshop 3 - The Linby Winder Prepare, drive and supervise the 900hp steam colliery winding engine.

Family & Friends Family and friends of participants are welcome too and can photograph or video the days proceedings or enjoy a stroll around our landscaped gardens and join participants for lunch.

We are only a short drive from The Longdale Craft Centre or Newstead Abbey.

We ask that they follow the instructions of our volunteers and site staff at all times to ensure safety.

For more details please contact:

Papplewick Pumping Station
Off Longdale Lane
Ravenshead
NG15 9AJ
Tel: 0115 963 2938

E-mail: learning@papplewickpumpingstation.org.uk