What is there to see? What else is on the site ? When are we open?

The pumping station is open several times a year to the public on a limited basis for a small charge. We must stress that the Bratch site is privately owned, by Severn Trent Water, and is a drinking water extraction site, on which there are naturally many restrictions, for hygiene, safety and security reasons.

With Severn Trent’s permission we steam the engine about twice a year, with a two-day steam gala in June, and a smaller one day steaming between Christmas and New Year. Photos of our recent steam galas can be found in the Dynapix Photo Galleries at www.dynamike.net

YOUR SAFETY
Steam is generated by using a diesel-fired boiler, since the original Lancashire coal fired boilers have been removed.

On our two open days, one of the two engines is steamed, and access to the engine itself is limited, for safety reasons, to around twenty people at a time to visit the two upper floors to examine the controls and the cylinders and valve gear. You will be very close to moving flywheels and other machinery, which is hot and may be oily. The engine is not too noisy and vibration is also minimal, but enough to be impressive. We rely on your common sense to avoid accidents, and you must observe the directions and advice of our Stewards at all times.

As a result of the limited access to the engine, queuing inside and outside the building is inevitable at busy times, and we rely on your patience and good humour should there be a delay. We keep the engine working except for a lunch break, until everyone has had an opportunity for an inspection. The first hour of opening, up to about 11:00 am is usually fairly quiet. The busiest time is between 2 and 3 in the afternoon.

Other visits
Organised, pre arranged visits to the pumping station can be arranged for corporate and special interest groups. Depending on your requirements, the engine can be available for inspection with a personal tour with the Chief Engineer, eg before or after your conference or meeting, or as a special highlight, daytime or evenings. Charges and conditions on application.

Conference facilities
We have a small conference room, formerly the boiler house, modern, heated and with an integral kitchen area with tea/coffee facilities. The conference room is used by local authorities, voluntary member groups and business groups of up to 20/25 delegates.
There are ample modern toilets including disabled facilities.

Unfortunately we cannot provide the food for buffets, but we can put you in touch with local caterers.

For bookings please contact the Secretary at admin@thebratch.org