Sandfields Pumping Station in Lichfield will open its doors to the public on Saturday 14th March from 10am until 4pm, inviting families, young people’s groups and curious minds to explore one of the city’s most impressive Victorian landmarks and its completely free of charge.
The Open Day forms part of National Lottery Open Week (7th–15th March) and celebrates not only the site’s remarkable history, but the vital role water continues to play in our everyday lives. Visitors presenting a valid National Lottery ticket will also receive a special refreshment offer on the day.
Celebrating Engineering Past and Future
The event also marks the legacy of renowned engineer John Robinson McClean CB FRS FRSA FRAS, whose work helped shape the region’s water supply. Looking forward, the day aligns with UN World Water Day 2026, which highlights water and gender equality — encouraging young people to consider careers in STEM and the water industry.
By connecting historic engineering achievements with modern-day innovation, organisers hope to inspire the next generation of engineers.
A Hands-On Family Day Out
There will be activities for all ages throughout the day:
For younger children:
- Free art activities including colouring the Pumping Station
- Sticker decorating
- Simple engineering-inspired crafts
For older children and teens:
- Hands-on filtration experiments
- Microscopes to explore water samples
- Interactive cog demonstrations showing how water is kept clean
Visitors can also join a guided tour of the Beam Engine House, learning how the impressive machinery once pumped life-giving water from Lichfield to the Black Country. Tours can be pre-booked here
Inside the building, the Archive Team — now based in a newly renovated space thanks to a National Lottery Community Fund grant will showcase historic photographs and stories explaining how water purification worked more than 100 years ago.
Games, Engines and Refreshments
The day will also include:
- Traditional fundraising games such as Splat the Rat and Guess the Weight of the Spanner
- A Pre-Loved Book Stall
- A working portable engine demonstration
- A chance to try the historic hand pump
Refreshments will be available throughout the day, offering visitors the chance to relax and enjoy the atmosphere.
Donations are welcome, with proceeds split equally between Lichfield Waterworks Trust and WaterAid, supporting both local heritage preservation and global efforts to provide clean water to communities in need.
The event promises to be a fun, educational and inspiring day out — celebrating history, supporting the future of engineering and reminding us how clean water connects us all.
