Gunpowder Mills

11/06/2026

Looking ahead to the summer?
We are charging into the holidays in a collaborative event with our Gunpowder Railway team, followed by a family-fun swashbuckling adventure in August.
For tickets:
https://www.gunpowdermills.com/whats-on-events

10/06/2026

🌿🦜 A splash of green in an industrial past! 🦜🌿

We spotted some unexpected guests this morning—bright green parakeets perched on one of our historic cordite presses!

These striking birds, now a familiar sight across parts of the UK, create a fascinating contrast against the weathered machinery that once powered Britain’s munitions industry. Nature has a wonderful way of reclaiming even the most industrial of spaces, blending history with wildlife in the most beautiful way.

Next time you visit, keep your eyes (and ears!) open—you never know what you might see or hear among the relics of the past. 👀

📸 Have you spotted wildlife at the Mills? Share your photos with us!

08/06/2026

With lots happening in the school summer holidays, like the
Big-Trains-Little-Trains Railway Event and the Pirate Adventure weekend, treat yourself to a relaxed family day out now. Pick up an annual pass (£15 adults, £10 children, with concession prices) and you return to the other events for FREE!

Our weekends offer:
Tractor Trailer Tours of the site- with wildlife spotting
Rocket making and firing
Gunpowder Railway or Mini Railway rides
Exhibitions...and more

07/06/2026

Missed our last walking tour?
Don't worry, we are running them once a month through the summer on these dates:
SATURDAY 20 JUNE
SATURDAY 25 JULY
SATURDAY 22 AUGUST
10am-12.30pm

Join us for a fascinating journey through our unique industrial heritage site. Explore the grounds of the historic Gunpowder Mills as our knowledgeable guides take you on a 2.5-hour tour filled with great stories and insights. Why not treat yourself to lunch in our cafe on your return?
£25, adults only (includes free drink and biscuits on arrival)

Tickets are limited so book in advance to avoid disappointment:
https://www.gunpowdermills.com/whats-on-events

🌿 ❤️

06/06/2026

Looking ahead to our next event?
=======RAILWAY WEEKEND =======🚂==
11am - 4pm Saturday 18th and Sunday 19th July
🚂 Gunpowder Railway & mini railway
🛤 Special displays from local model railway exhibitors and traders
✏ Train themed children's activities and Thomas the Tank train sets to play with
✨Our usual programme of tours, exhibitions and exploration
Our cafe and shop will be open for refreshments too.

Annual pass tickets £15 adult, £10 child, concessions available
Remember, existing annual pass holders get in FREE...just come along on the day!
https://www.gunpowdermills.com/whats-on-events

🇬🇧

05/06/2026

Discover the Gunpowder Mills, secreted away in the Lee Valley. A hidden history of gunpowder manufacture, wartime research and narrow-gauge railways, where fascinating industrial archaeology has now been reclaimed by nature.
Get yourself an annual pass and visit any Saturday or Sunday until the end of September.
Tickets: https://www.ticketsource.com/whats-on/essex/the-royal-gunpowder-mills

04/06/2026

In celebration of National Volunteer Week we want to say a special thank you to all our volunteers - we certainly couldn't do it without you!

We are grateful for the time, efforts, skills and knowledge shared by the dedicated people making this amazing place the success it is. Thank you

03/06/2026

🦌 Wildlife Wednesday 🦌

A patient queue at the Gunpowder Mills! These curious fallow deer were eagerly waiting for their apple treats, proving that word travels fast within this herd 🍎

Keep an eye out on your next visit—how many deer can you spot?

02/06/2026

"Like Bletchley Park... but with guns!"

That's how one recent group described their visit to the Gunpowder Mills.

Looking for an interesting day out for your U3A, history society, social club or community group? Join us in the beautiful Lea Valley and discover fascinating wartime history, explosive science, hidden stories and stunning natural landscapes.

Our private weekday group visits include:
✅ A bespoke timetable tailored to your group
✅ Expert guides bringing the site's remarkable history to life
✅ Exclusive access with no other visitors on site

Just £25 per person.

If you're a member of a local club or know someone who organises group outings, tag them below or share this post with them!

To find out more, email [email protected]

Group Visits Visiting as part of a group? Our friendly staff and volunteers can tailor a group visit to your requirements, welcoming your guests to the Gunpowder Mills and ensuring that the visit is a great one. Ideal for a one-day or half-day visit, you can immerse yourself in history and nature fo...