London Museum of Water and Steam

Based in a Victorian water pumping station in South West London, The London Museum of Water and Steam tells the story of London’s water supply. The free, family trails guide you through the buildings, with ten stamper stations to find and fun facts about the waterworks.

What is there to do at the London Museum of Water and Steam?

Get hands-on in the Waterworks gallery, trying different types of water pumps and clambering into child-size pipes. A favourite with kids is the three doll houses, showing how people have used and disposed of water over the centuries – look out for the figure emptying their potty out the window!

In the Steam Hall, you can dress up like a water-carrying maid or steam train driver, or play Duplo trains. Outside is a miniature steam train – rides are included with your ticket, although it only runs on certain days. Bring a change of clothes for the large water tables in the Splash Zone, where kids use pumps, levers, pipes, gears and wheels to move water.

The historic ‘monster’ engines are impressive relics of our industrial past – children over 1.2 metres can take the giddying stairs to the top. For younger children, there is a discovery toy box in one of the engine rooms. The museum runs special events, in school holidays, such as science shows and storytelling, which are included with your entrance ticket. Keep an eye out for their special steaming days, when all the working engines are put into steam. Your ticket is valid for a year, and under 18s are free.

Further Information

Is there food and drink available?

There is the Birdies Cafe which offers home-cooked British classics and children’s meals. High chairs are available.

What are the main things to do?

Victorian water pumping station with a family trail, hands-on exhibits, miniature steam train, splash zone for kids, engine rooms and school holiday events. There are toilets on-site and a choice of places to eat.

What are the ticket prices?

Once you’ve purchased your ticket you can return it all year for free and Kids go free.
An adult ticket costs £17.00 but if you can return it is great value for money.
Prices are subject to change and/or discounts online.

Is there parking?

There is parking, this can fill up at busier times.

When are they open?

London Museum of Water and Steam is open almost all year round, except for Mondays and Tuesdays (it does open on bank holidays Mondays and Mondays and Tuesdays during school holidays). For up-to-date opening times and dates please visit their website.