Royal Gunpowder Mills in Essex | days out

Royal Gunpowder Mills

Beaulieu Drive
Waltham Abbey
Essex
EN9 1JY

T: 01992 707370
F: 01992 710341

Related Waterways:

River Lee

Set in 175 acres of natural parkland and boasting 21 buildings of major historic importance, the site mixes fascinating history, exciting science and beautiful surroundings to produce a magical day out for all.

Established in the 17th century and acquired by the Crown in 1787, the Royal Gunpowder Mills has a very important place in both the history of Great Britain and in its home town of Waltham Abbey. The site has an award winning interactive exhibition showing the history of the manufacturing of gunpowder, the role of women during wartime, and its role as a research establishment in the development of rockets and missiles.

Of particular interest to canal enthusiasts, the Mills has a network of disused canals used for transporting gunpowder around the site and onwards on the Lee to Woolwich and other destinations. The canal system is on two levels and the remains of locks and aqueducts can be seen. Visitors can also see a restored powder barge and six sunken barges, kept below water for preservation purposes.

The site also has interest for rail enthusiasts as narrow gauge took over from canals as the method of transporting the highly dangerous goods around the site.

For nature lovers, the site is designated as one of Special Scientific Interest and is home to a large colony of heron, herds of both fallow and muntjac deer, badgers and a variety of butterflies and dragonflies.

Opening hours
Saturday, Sunday and Bank Holiday Mondays 11am to 5pm (Last entry 3.30pm). Open Wednesdays during school summer holidays for children's activities in addition to the usual attractions.

Adults £6, children 5 to 16 £3.25, concessions (students and over 60's
£5), under 5s free.

Royal Gunpowder Mills

Boating

Fishing

Cycling

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