Tuesday 14th - A rare treat

[Ian Bull]

Hullo everyone,

Could Sydenham have been developed without sewers? Probably not. Our Victorian forebears realised that and sent a main drainage network Eastwards, making today's South London possible in its wake. At the sewer's end they had to build an almighty steam pumping station capable of lifting almost half a million tons of sewerage each day. Virtually forgotten, it's still there.

Between 10.30 and 16.00 on Tuesday 14th there's a rare open day at that almost unknown building and it leaves the visitor gasping for words.

Crossness pumping station contains the finest decorative iron interior in Southern England and four of the largest steam engines built in the Victorian period. On Tuesday one of them, the largest of its type ever constructed, will be working.

A visit on Tuesday would be particularly worthwhile as very few are expected to attend. The 'atmosphere' of the structure when one is near solitary is something to behold.

You can get a 'taster' by clicking this .

http://www.flickr.com/search/?q=crossne ... ation&f=hp

General information here...

http://www.crossness.org.uk/

It's not easy to get to but If you can visit, it will be a day you'll not forget rapidly!

All the best

Ian Bull

[Ian Bull]

I didn't mention the address or the steam railway connection. Sorry! All below...

The Crossness Engines Trust
The Old Works
Thames Water S.T.W.
Belvedere Road
Abbey Wood
London
SE2 9AQ

Tel: 0208 311 3711

I should point out that there will be a £5 admission charge but I assure you, you won't regret a penny.

Railway enthusiasts may like to know that the ex Royal Arsenal steam locomotive 'Woolwich' is under restoration at Crossness and visitors are welcome to inspect the components and meet the friendly team who are working on her.

All the best

Ian