A fascinating collection of small replica steam engines, owned and operated by local volunteer group Cheshire Live Steamers, will bring to life the golden age of steam, as enthusiasts chat to visitors and exhibit their engines around the museum site.
The engines are all exact scaled replicas of original working traction engines, which would have been a common sight on rural farms in the early 20th century, powering machines for ploughing, threshing and harvesting. These smaller versions are also powerful, capable of pulling a car or small van, with a top speed of just over 4mph.
Power Hall and historic engines
The museum’s own Power Hall, which houses a permanent collection of historic engines will also be in full working mode for the Miniature Steam Weekend. Volunteers will be on hand to explain how they work and for children, there will be a range of exciting steam-related activities, all included in the entry ticket.
Ani Sutton, visitor attractions manager with the Canal & River Trust, said: “Our Miniature Steam Weekend is the perfect start to the half term holidays for families, as well as providing a great opportunity for serious steam enthusiasts to chat to knowledgeable experts in the field.
“Many of the miniature traction engine owners built their own machines, which is an incredible achievement. The group meets monthly during the winter and attends many leading events and shows over the summer and we’re delighted to welcome them here.
Fascinating industrial heritage
“As a museum devoted to historic boats and canals, this unique group and their brilliant miniature engines are a perfect fit for anyone interested in exploring deeper into this country’s fascinating industrial heritage. Located at the junction of the Manchester Ship Canal and the Shropshire Union Canal, our large museum site will be a great place to see the mini machines in action.”
The National Waterways Museum is open 10am – 4pm every day during the half term holidays (Sat 21 – Sun 29 October) and entrance to the ‘Miniature Steam’ event is included in the standard museum price. Boat trips will also be available during the half term holiday week, with Wirral Community Narrowboat Trust running five trips a day along the Shropshire Union Canal.
Outside half term holidays, the museum is open Wednesday – Sunday. For more information, visit the museum website. Adult tickets cost £11.75, concessions £10.50, children £8.50 and families £28.50. Tickets give free entrance for a year. Boat trips are extra.
