Papplewick Pumping Station fires up for 2026 season
Victorian steam engines return to life at Papplewick Pumping Station this weekend, with tours, live music, family activities, and Easter events alongside the historic machinery.
Morning briefing Nottingham
Temperature
6° to 11°C
Rain
Dry today
Wind
Gusts 30 mph
Sunset
19:45
Ride details Mixed conditions - some high gusts
Recommended gear
- Jacket
- Light layers
Best times to ride
Windy today
- 06 7°
- 09 8°
- 12 10°
- 15 10°
- 18 9°
- 21 7°
This weekend marks the first time this year that Papplewick Pumping Station is firing up its engines. Running alongside will be trading stalls, live entertainment, and tours of the historic landmark.
Papplewick is a Victorian facility that has been crucial for getting fresh water into homes for decades, from 1884 until 1969. The pumps are powered by two James Watt-style steam engines, which in 1884 were already antique technology. The design was developed over a hundred years earlier. However, whilst more modern engines could have been more efficient, this specific engine was simpler. Reliability is just what you need when powering critical infrastructure.
It's these engines that are running and on display today. The engines span multiple floors and you can get incredibly close too them - dangerously so if you're not minding your step.
Also on today is live music from Dixie Jacks, a bluegrass band. On display will be a miniature railway, model submarine demonstrations on the Cooling Pond, and children's Easter activities and a park.
For a slightly cheaper day, bringing your own lunch is recommended, but there is a small cafe with snacks and Tossed Dough will be there cooking up pizzas.
Getting to the pumping station is a little tricky, unless you're driving. The nearest tram stop is Hucknall, with a five-mile walk. The nearest bus stop is two miles from the pumping station. The accessibility notes from the team are to use A2B Cars, who can be called on 0115 9565757.
Tickets are £14.50 for adults and £13.50 for children, with under-12s getting in free. If tickets are booked online, they are 50p cheaper. Like many venues around Nottingham, tickets are valid for a year.
