Papplewick Pumping Station makes a fantastic day out for all the family. We have had several great days visiting, especially on the Steam Days that they hold. These are our photos from Our day out at Papplewick Pumping Station.
Background
Papplewick Pumping Station is Britain’s Victorian Water pumping station situated in Ravenshead, Nottingham. The pumping station had an extensive restoration between 2003-2005 and displays spectacular Victorian craftsmanship.
At the site of the Pumping Station there is the Engine House, Ornamental Cooling Pool and a Boiler House. All this is set in extensive grounds that are formally landscaped.
In the main Engine House there is the original twin beam engines which were originally built by James Watt and Co. in 1884. It displays outstanding combinations of artistic design and Victorian Engineering. The Engine House also displays beautiful stained glass windows, polished mahogany and brass work as well as outstandingly decorated columns.
Steaming Days
On the steaming days you get to see the Pumping Station in full working order. It really is a great day to visit, the boys also love the play area. If the weather is nice there is plenty of seating in the picnic area to eat your picnics or you can visit the tea rooms if you prefer. The miniature railway is a big hit with the boys too. We all enjoy the pumping days and there are also volunteers there that are ready to answer any of your questions.
Fish
The cooling pool is home to hundreds of fish. The little shop sells fish food for 50p a bag. I think feeding the fish is one of the highlights of the trip for the boys. They just love to see them all and see them all jumping over each other and jumping out of the water. There really does seen to be hundreds of fish. There are also activities for children to take part in. Children of all ages are welcome.
Occasionally when we have visited there have been model boats being driven around the cooling pond which the boys love to watch.
As well as the Main house and the Engine House there is a woodland area for children to play on, along with a picnic area and tea rooms.
On streaming days there is a miniature railway that runs that you are able to ride on for a small charge per person. There is also a working blacksmiths that you are able to pop in and have a look at which is free.
Prices
If you do chose to visit on Steaming day and pay the full price of £10.00 per adult/£8.50 per student or senior citizen ( all children up to the age of 16 are free of charge) then you will be give a ticket for unlimited entry for the next 12 months. Non steaming day prices are £4.00 per adult/student and senior citizen.
For more information please feel free to visit the website of Papplewick Pumping Station.
