Industrial, maritime and transport
Rides on steam railways can take you to the birthplaces of the Industrial Revolution. As the thrilling shriek of the steam engine whisks you back through the decades, stunning countryside streaks past your window. Next, explore our industrial heritage at a perfectly preserved mill town or a fascinating mining village. Discover what made our island nation great at dockyards and maritime museums, as the kids clamber over 18th-century steam ships and 19th-century tea clippers resplendent in their restored glory. Don’t miss the transport museums and military air shows that showcase staggering feats of automotive and aeronautical engineering.
Experience steam-age travel on the Nene Valley Railway
Visit one of England’s leading steam engine and locomotive attractions, based in Northamptonshire's Nene Valley.
Location: Peterborough, Cambridgeshire
Get on board at the National Railway Museum
The world's largest railway museum is home to a staggering collection of restored locomotives, including the fastest steam engine of all time.
Location: York, North Yorkshire
Experience life at sea aboard Brunel’s ss Great Britain
One of the world's most important ships brought to life for modern-day visitors.
Location: Bristol
Explore England’s industrial past on a Manchester city break
Discover Greater Manchester’s historic canals, the world’s first railway station and picturesque countryside on a city break.
Location: Manchester, Greater Manchester
Take a ride on a Victorian electric railway
Hop on board and enjoy a ride on England's oldest electric railway.
Location: Brighton & Hove, East Sussex
Uncover London’s industrial heritage at The Brunel Museum
Discover how the world's first underwater tunnel was built on a visit to the Brunel Museum.
Location: London, Greater London
Take your pick from Liverpool’s rich cultural gems
Liverpool is a thriving capital of culture with museums and galleries for every taste, many of which are free to explore. Dip in and emerge inspired.
Location: Liverpool, Merseyside
Enjoy a seafaring adventure at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard
With maritime attractions that span 800 years, there's plenty to pack into a short break to this historic waterfront city.
Location: Portsmouth, Hampshire
Discover 2,000 years of history in Gloucester
Roman ruins, an Anglo-Saxon princess, a murdered king's tomb, one of the world's most majestic cathedrals and the UK's best preserved Victorian Docks.
Location: Gloucester, Gloucestershire
Step on board HMS M.33, a small ship with a big history
Visit Portsmouth’s Historic Dockyard this summer and you'll find a new addition to its amazing maritime collection.
Location: Portsmouth, Hampshire
Plumb the depths of Plymouth's rich maritime history
Home to the Royal Navy, Royal Marines and Army, Plymouth boasts an inspiring rich maritime heritage and is steeped in military history.
Location: Plymouth, Devon
Ride a steam train on the East Lancashire Railway
This beautifully restored heritage railway puffs through stunning countryside, quaint villages and historic towns.
Location: Bury, Greater Manchester
Rainy Day Activities: Discover Sheffield’s story at Kelham Island Museum
The ‘Steel City’s’ unique industrial story is brought to life through interactive galleries at this captivating indoor museum.
Location: Kelham Island, South Yorkshire
Explore naval history at the Royal William Yard
Hop aboard the ferry and enjoy the stunning Plymouth coastline from the water to reach this cultural hotspot.
Location: Plymouth, Devon