River Don Engine
Europe's most powerful working steam engine, fired up for visitors at Kelham Island.
Built in 1905 to drive an armour-plate rolling mill, the River Don Engine is a 12,000 horsepower three-cylinder steam engine and the most powerful working example in Europe.
It lives inside Kelham Island Museum and is run in steam on set days — an enormous, floor-shaking piece of machinery that is worth timing a visit around.
Highlights
- 12,000 horsepower
- Runs in steam on set days
- Inside Kelham Island Museum
Nearby in Sheffield
Museums & galleries
Kelham Island Museum
Industrial museum on a man-made island, home to the thundering River Don Engine.
Theatre & music
The Foundry
The students' union live venue at the University of Sheffield, open to everyone for gigs.
Landmarks
Little Kelham
A restored cluster of old works turned into low-energy homes, courtyards and small businesses.