At GemLife we run regular get-togethers and day trips for our residents and potential residents so that they can really understand the fabulous community aspect of our resorts and the area surrounding Highfields. There really are so many hidden gems in the Highfields region, and the latest one that we would like to shed a light on, is the magnificent Downs Steam museum.
Located just 25 minutes from GemLife Highfields, the Downs Steam museum offers an exceptional journey through history by allowing visitors to see their stunning feats of technical engineering.
The entire premise of the Downs Steam museum is to raise funds to get these beautiful machines back on the line, restore the old carriages, and have them working as a tourism exercise – even taking runs to local areas. The museum is run exclusively by volunteers who are true enthusiasts, along with gratis work from skilled workers who help with the welding, engines, cabinetry, electrics and upholstery – essentially any donations they can possibly source.
To raise funds, Downs Steam often run functions that take place in their 30-seat restaurant carriage – and if that’s not big enough, they extend on to the platform that can hold 170 people along with managing the catering themselves through the use of volunteer chefs.
Getting these magnificent beasts back to their former glory is an incredibly difficult and expensive task and it is only through the dedication of passionate people giving their time to do something they enjoy that it is even possible. Visitors and enthusiasts alike will be reaping the benefits from this wonderful museum for many years to come.
If you’d like to see more photos from the day and hear more about GemLife Highfields’ fantastic outing, check out the Let’s Get Excited spread in our newsletter!
