1 / 2London Museum of Water & Steam
📍 Brentford, Greater London
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The historic Kew Bridge Waterworks houses the world's largest collection of stationary steam engines. On steam-up days all machinery operates - a genuinely spectacular sight for children and adults fascinated by how things work.
🏆 Funzaroo Verdict
Best for children who love big machines and understanding how things work. Steam-up days are the headline event - plan your visit around them. Volunteers are deeply knowledgeable and actively engage with children. The underground areas reveal additional hidden exhibits that reward thorough exploration.
ℹ️ What to Know Before You Go
💬 What Families Are Saying
View all reviews →1,099 Google reviews
G Reviews from Google
Michael Rauch
11 months ago
“Fantastic museum! I enjoyed it very much to see and hear these beautiful machines on a steam up day (check website for these special dates). Very friendly and knowledgable staff 🤓”
Juliet Faraj
a year ago
“Absolute gem! We loved our visit here! The day we visited was a 'steam up' day so all the incredible engines and pumps were working, including a steam melody maker! Little steam train running for the kiddies too. All the volunteer staff very knowledgeable and happy to answer questions. Great displays educating about water supply, disease, greedy utility owners ... all very thought provoking”
kostadin ivanov
a year ago
“It is a great place to see working history. Staff members were amazing and very helpful. There is something for every age, and if you are with your little one outside, it is a perfect spot for kids to learn how the water flows are working( just look for a sunny day, it's wet and fun). Also, i will recommend checking in advance the website for additional information on the steam train.”
📊 Commonly mentioned in Google reviews
Based on Google review tagsSteam engines
77 reviews
Outdoor play area
29 reviews
Interactive exhibits
26 reviews
Machinery
9 reviews
Working engines
7 reviews
Overview
Seven Victorian-era pump engines fill the Kew Bridge Waterworks, including massive Cornish beam engines that once pushed London's water supply. On steam-up days every engine runs simultaneously - the noise, scale, and movement are unforgettable. Interactive exhibits trace London's water history, knowledgeable volunteers answer every question, and a dedicated children's steam train runs on event days. An outdoor water play area operates on warm days.
