Image: Markfield Beam Engine and Museum (CC BY 2.0 Dominic Alves)
Created earlier this year, it has been devised to allow for shared resources, expertise and governance.
Two London industrial heritage museums, Walthamstow Pumphouse Museum and Markfield Beam Engine and Museum, have merged under a new umbrella organisation.
Called the Heritage and Communities Trust, it was created in a merger finalised in January 2025.
It has been created to allow both museums to retain their identities while benefiting from shared resources, expertise and unified governance.
The partnership is said to have created the largest dedicated industrial heritage charity within Greater London in terms of public benefit and multi-site operation.
“By joining forces, we’re creating a stronger, more resilient organisation that can better preserve and celebrate our shared industrial heritage,” said Abdullah Seba, Chief Executive of the Heritage and Communities Trust. “Our visitors will benefit from enhanced programming, improved facilities, and a more comprehensive understanding of London’s industrial past.”
The two Victorian-era sewage pumping stations are located approximately 45 minutes apart on foot along the River Lea. Both will continue to offer free entry to visitors.
The newly formed trust will oversee both museums as well as two attractions at the Walthamstow Pumphouse Museum: The Tool House, a community maker space, and Supperclub.tube, a pop-up dining experience in a decommissioned Victoria Line carriage.
The Board of Trustees includes representatives from both original museums to ensure continuity and balanced governance, with plans for further growth in the future.
