Welcome to the Unforgettable Steam Experience
The dramatic and romantic backdrop of STEAM offers a unique venue and setting to all kinds of events - from gala dinners, canapé receptions and product launches, to hobby shows, AGMs, private parties and weddings.

Our state-of-the-art event management includes high specification sound, lighting and presentation technology.
With an exceptional range of rooms and Museum spaces available, we can accommodate any event - from a small meeting for five people, to a prestigious conference for 750.
All dedicated corporate hospitality rooms are tastefully decorated - in keeping with the GWR theme - and include many special GWR features. Or if you prefer, your event can be held right next to some of our iconic steam locomotives!
So if you're looking for an event venue that really stands out in the calendar, you need look no further! 
**We have also just been accredited at Entry Level by the Meetings Industry Association. AIM is a standard that symbolises the levels of service and quality.that you can expect from an AIM accredited venue.**
Contact us now on (01793) 466619 / 466613 or email SteamEvents@swindon.gov.uk We will be happy to discuss your needs and can arrange to show you the spaces available.
Hawksworth Hall
Newly rennovated, Hawksworth Hall is a great space for corporate hire, training events, special exhibitions and private parties.
The hall offers GWR character to create an interesting and warm environment and it can be dressed to suit any occassion.
Great Western Hall
Originally the old ’20 Shop’ of the Swindon Works, Great Western Hall accommodates up to 750 guests in a glamorous state-of-the-art space that can be styled and partitioned to suit any occasion.

Furnishings and installations include the latest high-specification sound, lighting and presentation technology, a performance stage, underfloor heating, wall-to-wall carpeting and superior lightweight chairs and tables – all colour co-ordinated in gold and blue and set tastefully among the many historic GWR features of the hall.
So whether you or your company are planning a gala dinner, canapé reception, AGM, product launch, hobby show or private party, this space has all you need for a truly unforgettable event.
Sir Daniel Gooch Theatre and Balcony
 Our stylish, air-conditioned conference room on the top floor of the Museum seats up to 100 delegates theatre-style. However, the Sir Daniel Gooch Theatre can also accommodate smaller groups without feeling too large. The room is equipped with the latest communications equipment but still retains all the charm and character of the Great Western Railway.
- LCD Data Projector
- High quality surround sound
- Handheld and lapel microphones
- Infra-red hearing aid loop system
- Conferencing tables
- Black-out curtains
- Flip charts
- Projector screen and OHP
- Mineral water cooler
The adjoining balcony - just outside the Sir Daniel Gooch Theatre - is the perfect location for refreshments and affords views over the Museum’s impressive reception area.
Castle Boardroom

Our traditional-style meeting room is located on the Museum’s first floor and combines GWR architecture with modern-day presentation equipment and comfort. The boardroom table can comfortably seat up to 12 delegates.
- LCD Data Projector
- Projector screen
- Flip chart
- Whiteboard
- Mineral water cooler
Dean Boardroom
Have your meeting sat around a spacious, genuine, 100 year old GWR boardroom table! Complete with GWR chairs, this meeting room will seat up to 10 delegates and is a fabulous choice for any business meeting.
- Flip chart
- Whiteboard
- Mineral water cooler
The Ticket Office is located next door and is the perfect location for refreshments, buffet lunches and break-out space.
Room Capacities
| Location |
Theatre Style
|
Boardroom Style
|
Cabaret Style
|
Standing |
| Great Western Hall |
750 |
10 |
450 |
750 |
| Sir Daniel Gooch Theatre |
100 |
30 |
72 |
100 |
| Hawksworth Hall |
100 |
30 |
72 |
100 |
| Castle Boardroom |
N/A |
12 |
N/A |
N/A |
| Dean Boardroom |
N/A |
10 |
N/A |
N/A |
Car Parking
Free delegate car parking for corporate functions is available at the Designer Outlet North Car Park on Kemble Drive. All delegates can claim free parking by obtaining a ticket from the admission desk at STEAM. The Museum does not accept liability for vehicles parked in this car park.
How to Find us (PDF)
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