Open Now Until 31 December
To celebrate the Queen's Diamond Jubilee, this exhibition explores the Great Western Railway's royal connections. Displays include unique material from Queen Victoria's reign, right up to the present day of Queen Elizabeth II.
For added adventure, follow the Royal Road Children's Activity Trail. The trail can be downloaded free as a PDF document from the link below. Alternatively, a glossy colour version can be purchased at STEAM's ticket desk for £0.75.
The Royal Road Activity Trail (526KB)
The Royal Road Activity Trail ANSWERS (135KB)
On now until 24 June
Discover some fascinating documents that reveal the Titanic's GWR connections in this small display about the ill-fated ship.
From decorating Diamond Jubilee cupcakes and following the Royal Road Activity trail, to climbing aboard famous locomotives and changing the signals in the interactive Signal Box, there’s something for all ages to enjoy.
2 June
10.00 am - 4.00 pm
Meet the Railway Workers
Climb aboard and step into the fascinating world of steam! STEAM volunteers who once worked for the Great Western Railway – in Swindon Works and as drivers, firemen and signalmen - will invite you to 'have a go' at the controls and learn all about how these great machines worked as the story of the railways is brought to life. This amazing experience is included in the standard admission price.
4 June
10.30 am - 5.00 pm
Jubilee Fun Crafts
Children of all ages will have endless fun making Jubilee hats and crowns and 'Great Britain' flags as they get ready for the royal celebration!
5 June
10.00 am - 4.30 pm
Jubilee Cupcake Celebration
Enjoy our special Diamond Jubilee treat as you sit down with friends or family to decorate some yummy cakes to take home! Experts from the Cupcake Passion company will be at hand to help you decorate your cake with a choice of delicious sugar toppings and decorations. Cakes are limited to one per person please! The workshops are free with standard admission.
6 June and 7 June
9.30 am - 1.00 pm
Smiley Cats Kidz Club
Characters from the Madagascar movie will be the main theme for these mornings of crafts and creative games. Suitable for children aged 5 – 11, sessions include a supervised tour of the Museum and healthy mid-morning snacks. Cost: £12.00 or £9.50 with a Swindoncard. Drop off at 9.30 am and collect by 1.00 pm. Spaces need to be booked in advance by calling Smiley Cats on 01793 700221 or 07802 537876 or visit: www.smileycats.co.uk
11 July - 31 December
In the celebratory year of 2012, this exhibition looks at the sporting achievements of the Great Western Railway. From fencing to rugby, and from fishing to athletics, the employees of the GWR took part in many successful sporting activities. The exhibiton showcases sporting artifacts and memorabilia from the many clubs and individual sportsmen and women.
7- 8 July, 2.30pm and 7.30pm
A musical journey telling an entertaining and informative human story of Swindon and its people over the past 60 years. The people of Swindon will perform this lottery funded opera to mark the Queen's Diamond Jubilee. Matinee tickets £10 and £5 for under 12s. Evening performances £10. Please click on the link for more information. www.swindontheopera.co.uk
Plenty to entertain all members of the family, including arts and crafts sessions and the Smiley Cats Kidz Club.
8 September
Specialist advice, photography, gifts, nursery furnishings and more for families expecting a baby.
15 and 16 September
Families and railway enthusiasts will love this celebration of steam and model railways!
6 and 7 October
Discover LEGO heaven, with amazing displays and a unique LEGO Shop.
26, 27 and 28 October
25th annual festival for Swindon CAMRA. Info: www.swindoncamra.org.uk
11 November
1 and 2 December
Luxury goods and fayre, plus magical live entertainment for all ages.
Please note that some events have a special admission charge and the STEAM events programme is subject to change. Please check this website again before you embark on a long journey or call us on 01793 466646 or 466637 to check details.
Please phone Ian Surtees on 01793 466619 or see Conferencing and Events for details.
Please phone Ian Surtees on 01793 466619 or see Conferencing and Events for details.
STEAM is much more than a museum - it's also a place where people come to take part in a whole range of big and small events, from themed party events, festivals and family fun weekends, to book signings, story-times and hobby shows.
With such a unique location and magical atmosphere, STEAM could be the perfect venue for your organisation or club to hold a special event. We'd love to hear your ideas! Just call Ian Surtees on 01793 466619 or e-mail isurtees@swindon.gov.uk for details.