For several centuries, London has shaped its status as one of the world’s most renowned economic, scientific, educational, and financial centres. Many are familiar with its main symbols, which most often include its stunning architecture. However, a large number of tourists discover a completely different side to the capital of Great Britain. Firstly, the nature here is remarkable. The government and the city’s residents do a great deal to protect the environment and enhance the city’s green spaces. Strolling away from the centre, one can stumble upon beautiful walking trails, incredible waterfalls, and amazing parks. Secondly, London has numerous industrial sites that have been transformed into arts centres or tourist locations. So, where can one find the most interesting of these, and what makes them special? More at londoname.
Incredible Transformations
As mentioned above, many of London’s industrial sites have been transformed into fascinating locations that attract not only the city’s residents but also tourists. One of the most striking examples of such a transformation is the London Museum of Water & Steam. The history of this location began back in the 19th century with the founding of the Kew Bridge Pumping Station. It has had an exceptionally eventful history, linked to both cholera epidemics and war. The waterworks reflected the development and improvement of numerous engines. During its existence, it saw changes in filtration processes, the installation of one of the world’s largest engines (made by Harvey & Co), and a major transition from steam to diesel engines.
Eventually, rapid industrial development led to the station’s closure. However, this marked the beginning of a new chapter in its history. In 1975, the building became a museum. This allowed for the preservation of a large number of unique engines. The London Museum of Water & Steam is located on the site of the old station, near Kew Bridge, and houses a collection of original steam pumping engines, diesel engines, electric pumps, and other equipment. It is now one of London’s most popular industrial heritage sites.
A similar example is the Peek Freans Museum. It showcases the fragrant and sweet history of the Peek Frean’s Biscuit Factory, which was founded back in 1866. For several centuries, it produced incredible biscuits that won the hearts of many. However, after a fire, the building was almost completely destroyed, and the factory moved to another area. Nevertheless, in the museum that opened on the site of the old factory, one can delve into the amazing history of biscuit production.
Industrial Beauty
Besides the sites transformed into museums or arts centres, London offers many opportunities to visit operational businesses. Tours of pubs and distilleries are popular, where one can learn about the history and production processes whilst sampling the product. For instance, a visit to the Bombay Sapphire Gin Distillery allows guests to trace the history of the famous gin brand and, at the end of the tour, taste the embodiment of traditional techniques. Camden Brewery, Brixton Brewery, and Five Points & Taproom hold interesting histories of beer making and also offer craft beverages. All in all, it’s a fine way to explore the city’s heritage.
Some large industrial sites have fallen into disuse but continue to attract people’s attention. Notably, Beckton Gasworks became famous as a filming location for a number of films and television programmes. This gasworks opened in 1870 and was the largest in Europe. After it ceased operation, the old structures and gloomy atmosphere became an ideal backdrop for the action film “Brannigan” and several scenes from the film “1984”. In 1986, the works were used in the film “Biggles: Adventures in Time,” where its structures served as a site for weapons testing. All this encourages intrepid tourists to see these locations with their own eyes.