London Museum of Water & Steam
Explore the world’s largest collection of working steam engines and discover the Victorian story of London’s water supply in a historic industrial setting.
Located on Green Dragon Lane in Brentford, West London, the London Museum of Water & Steam showcases the history of London's water supply through an extensive collection of rare working steam engines. Set on the site of the old Kew Bridge Pumping Station, the museum features the world’s largest collection of Cornish beam engines, historic engine houses, interactive exhibits, and a narrow-gauge steam railway. Visitors can explore Victorian engineering marvels and enjoy family-friendly activities in a unique industrial heritage setting.
A brief summary to London Museum of Water & Steam
- Green Dragon Ln, Brentford, TW8 0EN, GB
- +442085684757
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit on a steam-up weekend to see the magnificent Cornish beam engines in operation.
- Use public transport where possible; Kew Bridge station is a 5-minute walk away.
- Allow 1 to 2 hours to fully explore the museum and enjoy the interactive exhibits.
- Families should not miss the Splash Zone, perfect for children to engage with water play.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Train
The nearest mainline station is Kew Bridge, approximately a 5-minute walk from the museum. Trains run frequently from London Waterloo via Clapham Junction, with tickets costing around £5-£10 depending on time and ticket type.
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Bus
Several bus routes serve the museum area, including the 65 (Ealing to Kingston), 237 (Hounslow to White City), 267 (Fulwell to Hammersmith), and 391 (Richmond to Fulham). Bus fares typically range from £1.75 to £2.00 with an Oyster or contactless card. Bus stops are within 150 meters of the entrance.
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Car
Limited onsite parking is available but often fills quickly, especially on weekends. Parking is closed during Brentford FC home matches and private events. Alternative parking can be found nearby, with paid options costing approximately £5-£10 per day.
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Bicycle
Cycle racks are available in front of the museum for visitors arriving by bike. The area is accessible via local cycling routes and is a convenient eco-friendly option.
London Museum of Water & Steam location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about London Museum of Water & Steam
A Heritage of Victorian Engineering Excellence
The London Museum of Water & Steam is housed on the historic site of the Kew Bridge Pumping Station in Brentford, West London. Founded in 1975 as the Kew Bridge Steam Museum and rebranded in 2014, it preserves a remarkable collection of stationary steam pumping engines dating from 1820 to 1910. Central to the museum’s appeal are the Cornish beam engines, including the Grand Junction 90 inch and the 100 inch engine, the largest surviving single-cylinder beam engine worldwide. These engines were pivotal in pumping Thames water to West London homes and businesses, shaping the city’s modern water supply system.Architectural and Industrial Significance
The museum complex occupies several Grade I and Grade II listed buildings, including the original Engine House (1837) and the Great Engine House (1845 and 1869), which house the museum’s most iconic engines. The site also features the Victorian Boiler Houses and the striking 200-foot high Italianate stand-pipe tower built in 1867, a rare and impressive industrial landmark that once regulated water pressure. These structures offer a vivid glimpse into 19th-century industrial architecture and engineering innovation.Immersive Exhibits and Interactive Experiences
Visitors can journey through the evolution of London’s water supply, from Roman times to the present day, with engaging displays such as models of historic brick sewers and a walk-through tunnel simulating London’s underground water infrastructure. The museum’s outdoor Splash Zone provides hands-on water play for children, while the narrow-gauge steam railway offers scenic rides around the grounds on select days. Regular steam-up events bring the engines to life, accompanied by stories from historical figures like Charles Dickens, who famously described the 90 Inch engine as a "monster."Community and Accessibility
The museum is committed to inclusivity, featuring accessible facilities including lifts and ramps, and a café that supports young people with learning disabilities. Its tranquil garden space invites visitors to relax amidst flowers and greenery. Located near Kew Bridge station and served by several bus routes, the museum encourages visitors to use public transport or cycle, with limited parking available onsite.Educational and Cultural Importance
As an anchor point on the European Route of Industrial Heritage, the museum plays a vital role in preserving and interpreting London’s industrial past. It highlights the Victorian era’s transformative impact on urban sanitation and public health, demonstrating how steam technology revolutionized water supply systems. The museum also hosts events and educational programs that deepen understanding of engineering, environmental history, and heritage conservation.A Living Legacy of Steam Power
The London Museum of Water & Steam is not just a static collection but a living museum where historic steam engines are regularly steamed and operated, offering visitors a sensory experience of power, sound, and movement. This dynamic approach brings history vividly to life, making it a unique destination for enthusiasts, families, and anyone interested in the story of London’s water and industrial heritage.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Location Audience
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