Forncett Industrial Steam Museum — Attraction in South Norfolk

Each Steam Up in Forncett is a unique Festival of Steam. Enthusiasts invariably bring something distinctive to each event. Highlights have included everything from lovingly restored models to a classic steam roller. Inside, a small army of volunteers beaver away to stoke the boiler and showcase the stunning collection of engines - all in a highly interactive and engaging manner.

Personal favourites include the near silent (and very efficient) operation of "Spruce" and of the Sleaford Engine... but also the mesmerising, percussive rattle of the Corliss Valve gear on the Hick Hargreaves Engine and the Watt Parallel Motion system on the Roall engine - both of which have a fascinating place in the history of steam.

In operation, the size and majesty of the 85 ton Dover Engine defies written description. At the other end of the spectrum, the Jessop and Appleby Engine has a simplicity which is itself quite remarkable - though that's now eclipsed by the remarkable Pulsometer Pump.

All of this should satisfy any enthusiast, but even these fine engines are eclipsed by the recently added Victorian Engineers' Workshop. This fully operational machine shop is powered by steam, through line shafts, and includes lathes, drills and much more.

Whilst most of the engines have been in place for many years, the museum has come together as a whole with recent finishing touches at almost every turn. To cap everything, the cafe (upstairs) offers great cake... and the entire museum is located in the finest valley in all of Norfolk!

Highly recommended - and having witnessed some extraordinary concerts and receptions upstairs, I can't recommend it enough as an event venue:...

Brilliant place, started by a young enthusiast, now run by that (older) enthusiast and a team of dedicated steam engine buffs. Fascinating history, Dr Rowan and the volunteers will talk to you (at length) about the engines but when you have one that used to open Tower Bridge then it's really something to talk about. Interesting video about the beginnings of the museum, it's just a proper British quirky place that will easily fill several hours. There's also snacks, aga-roasted pork rolls and cheese toasties when we went, plus tea & coffee and ice creams in the small shop. They steam up first Sunday of the month but it's really interesting even when not steaming. A very enjoyable afternoon had by all; we will return. Big thanks to Dr Rowan and the team for the talks. Great atmosphere...

What an absolute delight to visit if you love industrial history. I visited expecting to be there for an hour, and was there for three. The first Sunday of the month the engines are in steam, and I mean that 9 or 10 of the steam engines were started, not just one or two like at other museums. Three of the engines are the size of a small house and three others nearly as large. Most of the large engines are historically significant in some way, and in particular the tower bridge steam engine. Toilets were modern and clean and there was a great cafe. All the volunteers were enthusiastic. The only thing that baffles me is why this museum isn't better known, maybe its because it is anonymously tucked away in a tiny Norfolk village rather than a big town? Highly...