Bressingham Steam Museum & Gardens
Museum | Diss | England | United Kingdom
Open air museum steam technology
The Bressingham Steam Museum & Gardens in Diss, Norfolk, is a unique open-air museum that combines the history of steam technology with impressive garden displays. It was founded in 1961 by Alan Bloom, a renowned gardener and plant breeder who combined his passion for steam technology with his love for garden art.
Historic steam locomotives and gardens
Collection and Exhibitions
Alan Bloom garden designs visit
The museum houses an extensive collection of steam locomotives, steam engines, and other steam vehicles that illustrate the development of steam technology in the 19th and 20th centuries. Special highlights include the three historic "Gallopers" which were originally steam-powered and are still in operation today. These carousels were built in 1897 by Frederick Savage in King's Lynn and are a central element of the museum.
Steam museum with narrow gauge railways
Garden Displays
Events at Bressingham Steam Museum
In addition to the steam technology exhibitions, the museum also offers impressive garden displays designed by Alan Bloom and his son Adrian Bloom. The gardens are divided into various areas, including the Dell Garden with its characteristic island beds and the Foggy Bottom Garden, known for its mist effects. These gardens provide visitors with a variety of colors and shapes throughout the year and are a paradise for garden lovers.
Railways
For railway enthusiasts, the museum offers three different narrow-gauge railways that run through the grounds:
Fen Railway: A 2.5-mile track that passes through meadows and along the former plantings.
Waveney Valley Railway: A 1.5-mile track that runs parallel to the Fen Railway and offers views of the surrounding landscape.
Garden Railway: A smaller track that runs through the Dell Garden and provides visitors with a unique view of the flower beds.
Events and Activities
The museum regularly hosts events, including historical reenactments, seasonal activities, and special steam days featuring various steam locomotives in operation. An example is the Victorian Christmas Family Fun Day, where visitors can immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere of the 19th century.
Facilities
A café on site offers a selection of food and drinks for visitors. A souvenir shop sells model airplanes, souvenirs, and aviation literature. The museum is fully accessible, with the exception of the aircraft cockpits, which are accessed by ladders. Accessible toilets are located in the airport café. There is ample parking available on site.
