How is it that brickworkers were paid less when it rained? What is a green brick? And why was it crucial to handle wet bricks with the flat of one's hand only? Find the answers to these questions at Bursledon Brickworks in Southampton. The site which is now an industrial museum tells the whole story from the digging of the clay to the firing of the bricks. The most exciting parts are dealing with the people who worked here: the men sitting astride the hopper of the brick making machine and sticking their necks out by picking stones out of the clay; the boys that helped to run the brick press; and the barrow men who moved tons of bricks every day. Once a month the factory comes to life again, with the amazing machinery being steamed up and operated as in former times – a spectacular experience for visitors since this is the only surviving steam-driven brickworks in the country. Furthermore steam days provide the opportunity to ride a narrow gauge railway that once connected the clay depots to the factory. Not least the industrial heritage site boasts a large collection of brick making technology as well as bricks, tiles, land drains and other clay building materials.
Bursledon Brickworks Industrial Museum
Swanwick Lane
SO31 7HB Southampton
Hampshire
United Kingdom
+44 (0) 1489 - 576248
Homepage
Recommended duration of visit: | 2-3 Hours |
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Duration of a guided tour: | 45 Minutes |
Admission: | Charge |
Access for persons with disabilities: | For details see website |
Infrastructure for children: | |
Catering: | |
Visitor centre on site: | yes |
Gift and book shop on site: | yes |
April to October:
Wednesday, Thursday, Sundays 11am–4pm