Schools Programme

Choose from a range of exciting curriculum-linked topics:

Victorian Life (KS1/2)

Discover what life was like in Victorian Britain and explore how changes to work, education, leisure and transport shaped the world we live in today.

The Home Front (KS1/2)

From air raid shelters to rationing, explore how life at home changed during the Second World War.

Rocket Science (KS2/3) (on site visits only)

Explore rocketry through our interactive science show, our Rocket Vault and hands-on learning activities.

Mapping the Mills (KS3/4) (on site visits only)

Explore an industrial heritage landscape, investigate 300 years of explosive history, develop geographical skills and create an artistic map of the site.

Choose from three different ways to visit:

Virtual Visits

A performer will deliver an exciting and interactive performance in character via a live video call.

In School Visits

A performer will travel to your school and deliver an exciting and interactive performance in character.

On Site Visits (from summer term 2022 onwards)

Visit the Royal Gunpowder Mills, explore our fascinating site, experience an exciting and interactive performance, and take part in an object handling and activities workshop.

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Latest

Jobs

Come and work with us! We are seeking an experienced Project Manager to deliver the conservation of our Grade I Listed former Gunpowder Incorporating Mill.
Become a Gunpowder Railway Volunteer!

Whether you would like to develop your technical understanding of locomotives or fulfil a childhood dream of becoming a train driver, volunteering with the Gunpowder Railway is the perfect way to learn new skills whilst having fun and meeting new people.
Public Opening Days Over Winter

Our Sunday open days have now ended until Easter 2023. The site is open for special events including walking tours, wildlife safaris and group visits over winter. Our Schools Programme runs throughout the year.
Philippa Walton

Pioneering industrialist and entrepreneur who owned, managed and greatly improved the Waltham Abbey Gunpowder Mills.

Public Opening Days Over Winter

Our Sunday open days have now ended until Easter 2023. The site is open for special events including walking tours, wildlife safaris and group visits over winter. Our Schools Programme runs throughout the year.
How to get here

Find out more about where we're located and how to get here by all types of transport.
Virtual Tours

Explore our site from the comfort of home.
Visitor Map
Professor Nitrate

Experience Professor Nitrate's explosive outdoor science show.
Jobs

Come and work with us! We are seeking an experienced Project Manager to deliver the conservation of our Grade I Listed former Gunpowder Incorporating Mill.
Gunpowder Cafe

Tasty treats are being served at our Gunpowder Cafe!
Our Purpose

The purpose of the charity is to preserve, manage, research, conserve and display for the benefit of the general public and of the nation at large the historical and archaeological heritage of the Royal Gunpowder Mills, Waltham Abbey in the form of ancient monuments, listed buildings and the natural aspect features and bird, animal, tree and plant life.
Tractor Trailer Guided Tours

Take a 25 minute guided Tractor Trailer Guided Tour to the 'out of bounds' parts of the Royal Gunpowder Mills.
The Armoury

Discover how firearms changed over the centuries by visiting our collection of over 300 historic firearms.