Full steam ahead bank holiday weekend

Reporter: Jan Harwood
Date online: 24 April 2009

It’s full steam ahead bank holiday weekend as the world’s largest working mill steam engine opens its doors to the public.

Visitors to the Ellenroad Museum will be able to enjoy steam engines, learn more about the powerhouse of the industrial revolution, listen to live northern folk music, and take in a display of vintage motorbikes.

The museum recently won a grant from ITV’s People’s Millions to install and repair another steam engine and the progress on this project is also on display.

Councillor Irene Davidson, who chairs the Ellenroad Trust that supports the museum, said: “This is one of Rochdale’s hidden gems and an important piece of the borough’s heritage. For a great local and good value day out, a couple of hours here followed by a trip around nearby Hollingworth Lake should hold something for everyone.”

Bernard Rostron, Vice Chairman of the trust, added: “The museum is a real labour of love and we’re working hard, along with the council and other partners, to turn it into a vibrant and viable tourist attraction. There’s more work still to do, but with the support of people across the borough, we’ll be able to grow and grow. To have the world’s largest working steam engine on your doorstep is a huge asset and something we should all be proud of.”

The massive steam mill engine will be in steam and turning from midday on Bank Holiday Sunday 3 May.

Entrance is £3, or £8 for a family ticket of two adults and two children over 5. Under 5s get in for free.

The mill is on Elizabethan Way. Parking is free.