Bolton Steam Museum

About this activity

The Bolton Steam Museum showcases the largest collection of working mill engines in Europe. It's run entirely by colunteers for 20 years and shows lots of manufacturers that powered the North, including Greater Manchester. 

Visit the museum to find out more about how Lancashire produced more than half the world's supply of cotton textiles over 120 years ago! Hundreds of mills were busy spinning, but the industry declines by the late 1960's and closures were announced more than every week.Now, the museum represents one of the largest collections of steam engines. 

There are so many steam engines to see. One being the iconic Dee Mill engine, which the museum society was involved in the restoration and running of the mill engine and represents the finest example of a Lancashire mill engine. As well as this, you'll see Diamond Rope Works, Wasp Mill Tandem and so many more. Remember to snap a photo as you go round! There's over 30 engines to look at! 

See the machines up close and appreciate how they once provided the power for the Industrial Revolution. The larger engines included the 40-ton McNaughted beam engine and small engine Caroline that used to drive Fred Dibnah's workshop and they can all be seen in motion on the steam days. 

On steam days you'll see them in motion, but if you're visiting on any other day, they're static. Make sure you check the website before you visit, so you know when the Steam Days are as it's a great chance to see them in action and working!