Experience
Steam Crane Experience
Selected dates - Next: 29, 30 & 31 Aug 2026
Separately Ticketed
Steam Crane Experience
Get hands-on experience operating one of our historic steam cranes. Under the expert guidance of our volunteer engineers, you will learn the delicate art of controlling an original Locomotive Yard crane.
This is your unique opportunity to get to grips with the controls of a heritage Grafton steam crane. Your expert guide will talk you through boiler preparation and explain how we manage 100 psi of live steam. Then it’s your turn to take the levers; youโll be guided through moving the 30ft jib and testing your precision with the hoist. Can you manage to hook-a-duck?
This isn’t just a tour; itโs a hands-on experience into the world of heritage engineering.
Useful Information
| Cost | ยฃ50 (one additional spectator can be added for ยฃ20) |
| Dates | 29, 30 & 31 August 2026 26 September 2026 24 & 25 October 2026 |
| Age | Participants must be over 18 years old. |
| Fitness | Participants must be able to climb into the cab unassisted. |
| Length of Experience | 45 minutes with safety briefing. |
| Clothing | Sturdy, closed-toe footwear is a must. Wear comfortable clothing suitable for a heritage railway environment. |
| Dockyard Access | Your experience includes access to The Historic Dockyard Chatham and its galleries during the day of your visit. |
Photography: Ray Fothergill
