Big game of the steam variety in Greater Manchester
On Sunday 23 January 2011 I went with a couple of friends to take some photographs and see some decent stationary steam engines in the Greater Manchester area.
We had a quick journey from the West Midlands via the M6 and were soon in Wigan where we parked up near the Pier area . The former heritage centre is now closed and the signage is faded. We were to start at Trencherfield Mill but as we were early we concentrated on a few photographs of items in the vicinity - .
At 11:00 hours Trencherfield Mill opened its doors and we were able to go in and see the magnificent mill engine in steam . Despite any claims to the contrary, I do not believe this is the largest preserved mill engine (that honour falling to Ellenroad engine ) and its designed power was 2100 horsepower although I've seen 2500 quoted.
We had an excellent 'fix' of engine in steam then went on to explore the adjoining Western Mills complex where we found 'his and hers' dining rooms . There was then a very frustrating interlude while we tried mightily, and failed, to find a decent view of the large Gidlow Mills complex in Wigan .
A trip to Atherton to photograph Ena Mill and Howe Bridge Mills was much more fruitful.
We then had a short trip to Astley Green Colliery to see the country's largest preserved steam winding engine dating from 1912 and rated at 3300 horsepower.
It was now getting dark and time to head back home. This had been a very largely successful day both for large steam engines and for industrial architecture.
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