Norfolk is home to several fascinating steam museums that showcase the region’s rich industrial heritage. These museums offer a glimpse into the past, allowing visitors to step back in time and explore the history of steam power and its impact on society.
Join us as we explore some of Norfolk’s most popular steam museums and find out what makes them such a great visit for history lovers and curious minds alike.
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Steam Museums to Visit in Norfolk
From restored steam engines and locomotives to interactive exhibits and demonstrations, Norfolk’s steam museums offer a unique and immersive experience for all ages. Let’s take a detailed look at the different options.
Thursford Collection
Thursford Collection is more than just a steam museum. In addition to steam engines, you will be able to see organs, fairground rides, and silent movies. George T.H. Cushing MBE, was inspired to create this museum after experiencing the sights and sounds of the fairground as a child.
This museum boasts the world’s largest collection of steam engines and organs, and visitors can experience the thrill of riding on fairground carousels and the gondola, and watch silent movies. Robert Wolfe, one of the world’s leading theatre organists, performs daily on the Mighty Wurlitzer, the centrepiece of the collection.
The Thursford Collection is also home to the Thursford Christmas Spectacular so the museum is not open all year. It best to check the website here to confirm opening dates. Also, keep in mind fairground rides are subject to availability and are not included in the admission price.
Charles Burrell Museum
Step into the world of Charles Burrell, one of the leading industrialists of the golden age of engineering and agriculture. Located in Thetford, the Charles Burrell Museum is housed in the original paint shop of the Burrell Works, once the town’s largest employer until its closure in 1928. Run by volunteers, the museum offers free entry, with donations always appreciated.
Inside, you’ll learn about the history of Burrell Works and see three working Burrell engines, which are fired up during special events. When it’s time for a break, Steamers’ Café serves cheese or bacon toasties, homemade cakes, and hot and cold drinks, with gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options available.
Keep in mind the Charles Burrell Museum is typically only open on Tuesdays and Saturdays from Easter through October. It’s best to confirm on the website here.
Forncett Steam Museum
Experience the power of the Industrial Revolution at Forncett Industrial Steam Museum, home to an award-winning collection of stationary steam engines in the peaceful South Norfolk countryside. The museum is the lifelong work of Dr Rowan Francis and a team of dedicated volunteers. It features 14 steam engines, including the one that once opened Tower Bridge, plus a fully operational Victorian machine shop with lathes, drills, a shaper, and more.
For the full experience, visit on a Steam Day (first Sunday of the month from May to October) when everything is fired up, and you can enjoy homemade cakes and hot pork rolls. On Wednesdays and Sundays throughout the year, you can explore the collection on static display. Admission on static days is free, with donations always welcome.
Get more information here.
Strumpshaw Hall Steam Museum
Step back in time at Strumpshaw Hall Steam Museum, where you’ll find steam engines, 100-ton working beam engines, a narrow-gauge railway, a 1930s fairground, mechanical organs, and vintage memorabilia.
Founded in 1964, the museum’s history dates back to 1908 when William Charles Flower Holmes brought electricity to Strumpshaw with his own generator. Today, the collection showcases steam engines and farm machinery that helped shape the past, preserving the Holmes family’s legacy.
Take a break with a picnic in the paddock, visit the gift shop for souvenirs, or relax in the newly refurbished café with tea, coffee, soft drinks, cakes, and pastries. Dogs on leads are welcome in the museum.
Open only on Sundays and bank holidays, the museum charges a small entry fee, but parking is free. For a longer stay, book a spot at the on-site campsite, open year-round for tents, caravans, and motorhomes.
Get more information here.
More Steam Attractions in Norfolk
If you enjoyed these steam museums, you should also visit the steam railways in Norfolk which are sure to delight steam and train enthusiasts of all ages.
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