Amberley Museum, which is located in the heart of the South Downs National Park, will be taken over by miniature steam and traction engines over the weekend of Saturday, 9 and Sunday, 10 September when it will be transformed into a world of steam, smiles, and whistles.

While they are smaller than their full-size counterparts, miniature steam engines are still very powerful.

Over the weekend, visitors will be able to compare the museum’s full-size engines with the visiting miniature examples side by side as they trundle around the 36-acre site.

Visitors can be sure of not missing any of the engines as on both days there will be a parade of all engines which ends with them going on display in one place.

One of the questions that people ask “What were miniature traction engines used for and did they have a purpose?’ One answer is that miniature traction engines are generally very capable toys. They are also large-scale, contemporary models of late-19th and early-20th century designs, with just as much character as their full-size counterparts, and need the same amount of care and dedication from their owners.

Many of the miniature engines operate in the same way as their full-size counterparts but have the advantage that people can get up close to see their operation.

As well as miniature steam engines, during the weekend a vintage bus and Peter the narrow-gauge steam locomotive will be giving rides around the Museum.

Besides the steam attractions, the museum has historic buildings and two nature trails, and there will be demonstrations of traditional crafts so that visitors of all ages will find lots of things around the Museum to keep them interested.

Tickets for the weekend should be booked in advance over on their website at https://www.amberleymuseum.co.uk/whats-on/miniature-steam-weekend/

The museum has a special offer for visitors travelling by train, with a Get 2 for 1 offer on General Admission prices. To take advantage of this offer, a valid voucher should be downloaded or printed from https://www.daysoutguide.co.uk/amberley-museum and presented at the time of entry. This special offer does not apply to Halloween Evening and Meet Father Christmas events, which are add-on specials.

Further information about miniature traction engines can be found at https://www.berrybrooksteam.co.uk/blog/faqs-about-traction-engines/

As well as the Miniature Steam Event, the museum is open to the public from Wednesday to Sunday between 10 am and 4:30 pm all year round. Hot and cold food can be obtained from the Limeburners Café, and dogs are welcome on a lead.

Further details about the museum is online at www.amberleymuseum.co.uk

The museum is often referred to as multiple museums in one, as there are over 20 areas with exhibitions covering a host of interests, including vintage vehicles, communications, electrical goods, crafts, and nature trails, as well as offering rides on a narrow-gauge railway and historic buses.

Regular events are held throughout the year, and there is a team of active volunteers who help to look after the exhibits and chat with visitors.