Opening The Doors To Crossness Pumping Station

The fascinating Crossness Pumping Station, in south London, opened it’s doors to the public this weekend.

The Grade I listed building, was built by Sir Joseph Bazalgette and opened in 1856.

   

Duncan went inside for a look into this fascinating place.

The building houses working machinery and as there are gaps between the floors, hard hats have to be worn.  Safety first!

The pumping station was opened to help improve the sanitation in London, where for years, sewerage had literally poured into the River Thames.

   

At Crossness, the incoming waste liquid from the sewers was raised some 30-40 feet by four large steam driven pumps. The engines were of enormous size and power.

The Crossness Engines Trust have restored one of these engines, The Prince Consort and are working to restore the others.

   

Sadly, no longer in use today, The Crossness Engines Trust open the pumping station to visitors several times each year.  If you’re lucky, you’ll get to see them wearing the costumes of the day the pumping station was opened!  Often visitors travel from all over the world to visit the pumping station.

The trust relies on donations, so don’t forget to spend a penny if you visit!

Find out more about Crossness Pumping Station on their website.