Great Engine Demonstration - 15 October 12pm

Exterior of the Newcomen Beam Engine and pump - a label says it was for dewatering mine workings. Installed and working 1798 and decommissioned 1920s.

Join our expert guides for an exciting demonstration of The Earls' Great Engine. The first practical steam engine invented to pump water out of coal mines in 1712 by Thomas Newcomen, the engine at Elsecar stands proudly in its original location, as one of the world’s most important monuments to the Industrial Revolution. Restored in 2014, the engine now runs using hydraulics. 

Make sure you book your place by contacting the Visitor Centre on 01226 740203. The tour costs £6 and lasts for approximately 45 minutes.  

Please note the majority of the Newcomen Engine Demonstration takes place inside the building. The building is not accessible to wheelchair users as it has a deep step into the building and narrow stairs to get to the top floors. For visitors with some mobility issues you can carefully step into the building onto ground level. However, if you find you are unable to ascend the stairs you are welcome to sit on a bench on the ground floor for the duration of the demonstration.

We can organise separate accessible sessions for visitors if you would like to see the engine running from the outside and are unable to access the building. Please contact the Visitor Centre to discuss and book your place. If you have any questions contact our friendly staff in the Visitor Centre who will be able to help you further.