What's On

In 2023 we will be opening on the second Saturday of each month. We will also be open on select days for special events including re-enactment events and children's activity workshops. This replaces our 2022 opening programme.

Please note we are only open on specified days, not for general opening. Tickets must be booked in advance. Please keep an eye on our website or sign up to our newsletter to be the first to know about upcoming events.

Next:

Experience the Royal Gunpowder Mills

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/experience-the-royal-gunpowder-mills-tickets-638756105707

Saturday 10th June 2023

Price: £18

Session times:

10.30 to 2.00 - Experience the Royal Gunpowder Mills Tickets, Sat 10 Jun 2023 at 10:30 | Eventbrite

11.30 to 3.00 -   https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/experience-the-royal-gunpowder-mills-tickets-638756105707

Discover why a one-legged stool was a crucial health and safety implement, find out how the factory workforce doubled during WW1 as women came to work at the Royal Gunpowder Mills, and learn about the site's final phase as a top-secret Explosives Research and Development Establishment. 

You will see the remains of buildings used in the production of explosives including the Grand Nitrator (where nitroglycerine was manufactured), Newton’s Pool used for the testing of underwater explosives including the explosives used in the Dambusters' “bouncing bomb” and our iconic Press House with waterwheel where one of the most dangerous processes on site took place. 

Details

Your ticket includes:

• Tea, coffee and biscuits included in the price
• Welcome talk and the company of expert guides throughout your visit
• A Tractor Trailer Guided Tour of the out of bounds areas of our 170 acre site (approx 45 minutes)
• Access to our Film (15 mins), Main Exhibition, Armoury, Rocket Vault, Powder Boat and early 1900s fire alarm
• A ride on The Gunpowder Railway, a narrow gauge railway running roughly 1 km along the perimeter of the Royal Gunpowder Mills site (approx 30 minutes)

Please note that our cafe will not be open but nearby Waltham Abbey has various food outlets before or after your visit.

There will be no science shows or children's activities at this event. There will be family activities and children's workshops coming in the summer holidays, autumn half term and Christmas. 

Assistance dogs are welcome and water is available. Sorry, no other dogs allowed

Upcoming Events

Saturday 8th July 2023 - Second Saturday Opening

Details to be announced shortly

Saturday 15th and Sunday 16th July - Special Event - Re-enactment and Living History Event

A new multi-period event for all ages exploring the history associated with the Royal Gunpowder Mills and the surrounding area. Learn about firepower through the ages, social history and more! From 1450 to 1950.

Interact with our re-enactors and demonstrators, explore our fascinating site and relax in our beautiful natural surroundings shaped by centuries of manufacturing gunpowder, explosives and propellants.

Timings of the day and how to buy tickets coming very soon – please keep an eye on our social media and website for event details, schedule and updates.

Please note that parking in the area is limited so travel on foot or by public transport if you can. We have a limited number of tickets for our visitor car park. Please book this when you purchase your ticket to be sure of a space.

More to come

Our full 2023 programme of activities and events will be announced shortly including tours, talks, walks and children's activities.

Please keep an eye on our website or sign up to our newsletter to be the first to know about our programme and opening for 2023.

Other ways to visit

The site is open for Group Visits throughout the year, to book please contact [email protected]

Our Schools Programme runs throughout the year to book please contact [email protected]