About The Brickworks Museum
Bricks are Brilliant! This is what our visitors tell us. Have you ever wondered about the bricks that built your house? Why not come and find out more about these little marvels.
History of the Bursledon brickworks
Originally built in 1897, the Bursledon brickworks played a vital role in brick production, going on to produce more than 20 million bricks every year! Clay was initially dug manually from expansive claypits near the brickworks and transported using railway wagons.
The process was revitalised in the 1930s to use mechanised digging and an overhead cable system ensuring a more effective turnaround. The brickworks ceased operation in 1974 and lay dormant until the creation of the Brickworks Museum in 2014.
The Victorian Museum
The Brickworks Museum is set in the last remaining steam-driven Victorian brickworks in the country. You can follow in the footsteps of the brickmakers to see how bricks were once made here by the million and experience what a Victorian factory with its huge machinery was like – full of authentic sights, sounds and smells – it’s the real thing.
There really is something for everyone, lots of hands-on activities for children of all ages. Plenty of space inside if the weather is poor and well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome.
Once a month the machinery is steamed up and the place hums with life again. There are three stationary engines, a miniature railway, and resident traction engines which help put on a memorable event.
Other reasons to visit
An inexpensive family visit, with lots of brick related activities and family trails. Enjoy free parking, a coffee shop, and a small gift shop. In addition, the museum houses a nostalgic penny arcade with more than 30 machines dating back to the early 1900’s.
Location
The Brickworks Museum is located in Swanwick, just off the A27 between Southampton and Portsmouth. It’s near the River Hamble with lovely riverside walks, with Manor Farm and Bursledon Windmill close by. Why not make a day of it?
11th March – 1st November 2026: Wednesdays, Thursdays & Sundays only, 11am – 4pm (last entry 3pm).
| Ticket Type | Gift Aid* | Standard | Annual Membership |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adult | £8.00 | £7.00 | £22.00 |
| Child (5-16) | £6.00 | £5.00 | – |
| Over 65/Student** | £7.00 | £6.00 | – |
| Family (2 adults/3 children)*** | £32.00 | £21.00 | £53.00 |
