Abbey Pumping Station is Leicester's Museum of Science and Technology, and has exhibits showing Leicester's industrial, technological and scientific heritage.

The Pumping Station is a remarkable example of Victorian architecture and engineering and houses four massive beam engines that were used to pump sewerage from 1891 to 1964 when it closed.

Entry to the pumping station is free, except on certain days (when the engines are in steam etc) when there is a very small charge. When we went there was an exhibition of meccano and steam toys, and the small steam train was running around the perimeter of the site. Even without these additional attractions, there is lots for children to see and do.

The four main beam engines are truly impressive pieces of Victorian engineering, and can only really be appreciated in real life. They were not actually turning when we were there, but they do so several times a year.

There was steam coming out of the engines, but apparently this was because the same boilers are used to heat the building.

The massive flywheels are 21 feet in diameter and are ornately decorated, as are all of the pillars and the inside of the station. Apparently this site is the only one in the world where four such engines can be seen together.

We happened to visit when the annual steam toy exhibition was running, and many of the other engines were also in operation. One of the most attractive exhibits for the children is a working toilet with clear pipes which they can flush and then "chase the poo" to see where it goes!

(see video below)

We had a great afternoon at Abbey Pumping Station and would thoroughly recommend it, particularly as the free entry means that you can visit regularly for a short period of time.

The video below shows footage of the train ride, more of the exhibits and a snowman being squashed by a steam roller! - click below to watch.