Industrial heritage in England

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.

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Step back in time on the Severn Valley Railway

Enjoy a combination of rolling countryside views and hints of a bygone era on a superb day of steam-hauled splendour.

Location: Kidderminster, Worcestershire

Travel across Hampshire’s countryside on the Watercress Line

Witness the sights, sounds, smells and magic of steam travel from a bygone age and journey through Hampshire’s countryside on a restored steam train.

Location: Alresford, Hampshire

Fly high at RAF Museum Cosford

Here you can experience aviation life in wartime including the chance to see the world's oldest Spitfire.

Location: Cosford, Shropshire

Take a trip back to where the Industrial Revolution began

Ironbridge Gorge has World Heritage status for its unique contribution to the birth of the global Industrial Revolution in the 18th century.

Location: Ironbridge, Shropshire

Full steam ahead on a loco driven by you

Many would love the chance to drive a steam engine, well now's your chance: become a train driver for the day at Telford Steam Railway.

Location: Telford, Shropshire

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 countless attractions with one ticket at Beaulieu

Set in the heart of the New Forest, Beaulieu is an award winning day out where one ticket grants access to many of the village’s attractions.

Location: Beaulieu, Hampshire

Midland Railway - Butterley

The Railway’s Footplate Experience provides big kids with all the necessary know-how to drive a steam train.

Location: Ripley, Derbyshire

Ride with the driver on the Dartmouth Steam Railway

Enjoy a scenic steam train ride from Paignton to Dartmouth, with a twist.

Location: Paignton, Devon

Harwich Maritime Heritage Trail

Take a voyage of discovery around the old port of Harwich and discover a wealth of maritime history.

Location: Harwich, Essex

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

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

All aboard for the North Yorkshire Moors Railway

Revel in the romance of steam with a trip on the world’s most popular heritage railway line, spotting film locations and amazing scenery on the way.

Location: Pickering to Whitby via North York Moors National Park

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

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