TOOT THOSE WHISTLES ONE AND ALL AS STEAM ON THE DOCK CHUGS INTO ALBERT DOCK LIVERPOOL FROM MAY 6th – 8th.
Step aboard an authentic steam train and steamboat from a bygone age, and be amazed by a symphonic spectacular of live music, steam and sparks – it’s full steam ahead to the UK’s only inner-city steam rally, which takes over the North West’s most-visited free tourist attraction for a free weekend of wonder for families and steam enthusiasts alike.
A celebration of the industrial heritage of Albert Dock, Steam on the Dock marks the return of a Liverpool icon – The Daniel Adamson – a historically significant, steam-powered tug, built in 1903. Following an extensive restoration by The Daniel Adamson Preservation Society (as part of a Heritage Lottery Fund award and with support from the Mayor of Liverpool) the public will once more be able to explore her grand decks for the first time in over 30 years. Joining “The Danny” will be a fleet of coal-powered steamboats, as they power and puff their way around Liverpool’s famous waterways.
Back on dry land, visitors can step aboard the majestic Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland steam train (arriving at Albert Dock a week earlier on Thursday, April 28, in time for the Bank Holiday weekend) – and clickety-clack up and down Hartley Quay, while a cavalry of vintage steam traction engines, lorries and miniatures will be keeping their fire pits burning as they parade around Albert Dock’s quaysides throughout the day. Roger and Jack Dibnah – the sons of the late, great TV legend and steam enthusiast, Fred Dibnah – will also be in attendance.
An unmissable moment will occur on the Saturday (May 7), at 3pm, in neighbouring Salthouse Dock, called Liverpool Symphony of Steam, Sparks and Space – a thrilling live performance involving the 80-piece Katumba samba band. The symphony will build to a thunderous climax with the whistles, hooters and steam of the assembled traction engines, steamboats and train all sounding off at the same time, echoing through the waterfront and city beyond.
Clare Rawlinson, marketing manager, Albert Dock Liverpool, said: “The sound of a train’s whistle and the smoke of a boat’s funnel has real universal appeal, and Steam on the Dock promises to be an event where the whole family – from children to grandparents – can come together and relive the golden age of steam. Steam trains and traction engines are literally steaming their way to Albert Dock from all around the country, and we can’t wait to give them a warm, Liverpool welcome.
“Of course, the purpose of this event is to not only celebrate Albert Dock’s industrial heritage, but to welcome back The Daniel Adamson, which is without doubt one of the true highlights of the event. Equally exciting is Liverpool Symphony of Steam, Sparks and Space – which is going to be a unique moment and a real first for the city that spectators are unlikely to forget.
“Families are also encouraged to allow our steam attendants to ticket punch their special Steam on the Dock passport, which can be collected from all the steam attractions over the weekend. Collect as many punches as possible, and be in with the chance of winning tickets to our brand new Mattel Play! Liverpool attraction here at Albert Dock.”
Various traction engines and The Danny will be in situ from the Friday (May 6), while the main event rolls into action on the Saturday and Sunday (May 7-8), beginning 10am both days.
For more information on this and all other upcoming events at Albert Dock, visit www.albertdock.com, and join in on Twitter – @theAlbertDock #SteamDock16
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