Fakenham Museum of Gas and Local History
Overview
Fakenham Museum of Gas and Local History preserves Fakenham's complete nineteenth-century town gasworks, opened in 1846. It is the only surviving complete town gasworks in England and makes a once-common urban service understandable.
What this place is
preserves Fakenham's complete nineteenth-century town gasworks, opened in 1846.
People and events
Gas workers heated coal, cleaned the gas and maintained supply for streets, homes and businesses.
How it was used
The works produced gas until 1965 before volunteers saved the machinery and opened the museum.
What survives
Retorts, purifiers, meters, engines, workshops, records and a gas holder survive.
Why it mattered
It is the only surviving complete town gasworks in England and makes a once-common urban service understandable.
History checked 16 August 2026 against the named sources below.
A heritage record does not grant access or permission to enter, climb, collect or disturb anything. Check current paths, ownership, opening arrangements and protection before visiting.