We are conducting our popular GWR Factory History tour of the Swindon Designer Outlet Joseph Armstrong buidings to coincide with the GWR STEAM Museum’s Christmas event on the 4th & 5th of December. The tour features the history of all the ex GWR workshops contained in the Designer Outlet as well as adjacent buidings including the famous works hooter illustrated by photographs and plans of the works.

Joseph Armstrong seemed to be eclipsed in books about the Swindon factory by Sir Daniel Gooch and Churchward etc. This is despite the fact that Joseph was responsible for the major expansion of the factory when Gooch left.

The tours take approx 2 hours and give an insight into the management and workers of the factory including anecdotes of amusing practices. There will be one tour per day starting at 10.00hrs and places must be booked. The tours are free but if you wish to make a donation to the groups funds at the end of the tour please feel free.

Please contact the Secretary at secretary@rodbournehistory.org to book your place.