Open House Festival: Guided tours of the Engine House and Coppermill Tower

Walthamstow Wetlands Engine House and Meadow

Walthamstow Wetlands Engine House and Meadow credit Ian Phillips

Coppermill Tower and Grabber Crane

Coppermill Tower and Grabber Crane credit Penny Dixie

Open House Festival: Guided tours of the Engine House and Coppermill Tower

Location:
Join one of our experienced guides on this informative tour to discover the history and architecture of the reserve's iconic buildings.

Event details

Meeting point

Engine House visitor centre

Date

Time
Two guided tours: 10.30am - 12pm or 2pm - 3.30pm, drop -in at the Engine House Visitor centre
A static map of Open House Festival: Guided tours of the Engine House and Coppermill Tower

About the event

When and why was the Engine House built? Who was the architect who designed this magnificent Victorian building? What was the purpose of each room in the Engine House? How has the Coppermill Tower's use changed over the years since first mentioned in 1066?

As part Open City's Open House Festival 2025, come and find the answers to these questions and much more about our visitor centre and Grade II listed Coppermill Tower building, on a guided walk led by one of our knowledgeable and friendly guides.

This tour will begin in the Engine House, followed by a walk through the south side of the reserve to Coppermill Tower, and back to the visitor centre. There may be some gentle inclines, strong stout footwear recommended. It will last approximately 1.5 hours and will be fully outdoors - so dress for the weather! Please bring some water and if you have binoculars do bring them, but it’s not essential.

This event is aimed at adults aged 18+, but can be inclusive for young people aged 11 and above, who must be accompanied by a responsible adult.

Please check the Open House Festival's full programme for more events. 

Donations to London Wildlife Trust are welcome. All proceeds from this event enable our mission of Nature recovery for a thriving city.

Booking

Price

Free and donations are welcome

Suitable for

Adults

Know before you go

Dogs

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Assistance dogs only

Please be advised that trained assistance dogs on duty are welcome, but in order to protect the sensitive habitat and drinking water supply, we cannot allow other dogs or pets of any kind on-site, as the wildlife may become distressed.

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Mobility

There will be a walk between the two buildings, and some paths may have gentle inclines. 

Please contact the team via email if you have additional mobility requirements and need further information. 

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Wheelchair access

There are accessible trails around the reserve, as well as ramps leading to the café, toilets and shop area
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What to bring

Comfortable footwear and water

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Parking information

There is a paid car park on site, 9.30am - 5pm
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Bicycle parking

Next to the Engine House visitor centre and on the north side of reserve
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Facilities

Toilets
Shop
Cafe/refreshments
Picnic area
Accessible toilet
Baby changing facilities
Disabled parking
Accessible trails

Contact us

The Engagement Team