Steam power changed the world. From the Industrial Revolution to the golden age of railways, steam technology shaped economies, connected nations, and built industries. And while its role has evolved over time, the passion for steam remains very much alive – not just in the UK, but across the globe.
At NTET, we believe in celebrating and preserving steam heritage worldwide. That’s why we are building a global network of like-minded organisations – sharing news, insights, events, and best practices to keep the spirit of steam alive for future generations. Whether you’re an enthusiast, an engineer, or simply curious, this is your gateway to discovering steam heritage across continents.
While the United Kingdom boasts a rich heritage of steam-powered road vehicles, the passion for preserving these magnificent machines transcends borders. Across continents, dedicated organizations work tirelessly to restore, maintain, and showcase steam traction engines, road rollers, and other steam-powered vehicles, ensuring that this pivotal aspect of industrial history remains alive for future generations.
Recognized as the world's premier steam traction preservation organization, the NTET represents owners and enthusiasts alike, promoting the preservation and operation of steam-powered road vehicles.
Established in 1937, this UK-based society provides a forum for exchanging information about steam road vehicles in all their forms, emphasizing historical and academic aspects.
Founded in 1965, this club focuses on preserving road steam vehicles and advancing public education about historic steam and mechanically propelled vehicles.
Dedicated to the preservation of all things vintage, this club welcomes new members passionate about steam heritage.
Based in Pennsylvania, USA, this association hosts the annual Threshermen’s Reunion, showcasing one of the world's best collections of old traction engines and antique farm machinery.
Located in Oregon, USA, this park is home to multiple museums dedicated to the preservation and demonstration of steam-powered equipment and antique machinery.
A volunteer-run club in Victoria, Australia, MSTEC is dedicated to preserving industrial, agricultural, and maritime mechanical heritage, operating a vintage engine museum.
Located in Oregon, USA, this park is home to multiple museums dedicated to the preservation and demonstration of steam-powered equipment and antique machinery.
Located in Western Australia, this club maintains and operates vintage machinery, including a 1904 Clayton and Shuttleworth steam traction engine.
While specific road steam preservation societies are less prominent in other regions, enthusiasts and organizations still work to preserve steam heritage:
In South Africa, groups like the Umgeni Steam Railway focus on railway preservation, but there is a growing interest in broader steam heritage.
Preservation efforts are emerging, with enthusiasts in countries like India and Japan maintaining steam vehicles and organizing events to celebrate steam history.
The UK has one of the world’s most vibrant steam communities, with dozens of heritage railways, traction engine societies, and preservation trusts. Our rich steam history continues to thrive thanks to dedicated enthusiasts, volunteers, and engineers.
Represents and supports heritage railways across the UK.
The leading voice for steam traction preservation in the UK.
The UK’s only double-track heritage railway.
West Midlands
Operates heritage steam trains between Bridgnorth, Shropshire, and Kidderminster, Worcestershire
Offers steam train rides through Staffordshire's picturesque landscapes
Operates heritage steam trains between Bridgnorth, Shropshire, and Kidderminster, Worcestershire
South West
The longest heritage railway in England, running through the Quantock Hills
Offers heritage steam and diesel train services through Dorset
A seven-mile former Great Western Railway branch line
North East
A heritage railway running through the North York Moors National Park
The world's oldest railway, located in County Durham
North West
Runs steam and diesel services through the Irwell Valley
A heritage railway in the Lake District
South East
One of the first preserved heritage lines in the UK
A preserved rural light railway
East of England
Also known as the "Poppy Line," offering coastal views
A standard gauge heritage railway in Norfolk
London and South East
The closest heritage railway to central London
East Midlands
The UK's only double-track heritage railway
A heritage railway that offers steam and diesel train rides
West Midlands
Operates steam and diesel trains in Staffordshire
A preserved standard gauge line in Staffordshire
Yorkshire and the Humber
A heritage railway in West Yorkshire
A preserved heritage railway in North Yorkshire
North West
A narrow gauge heritage railway in Cumbria
A heritage railway in the Lake District
Scotland
A preserved steam railway in the Scottish Highlands
Operated by the Scottish Railway Preservation Society
Wales
Historic narrow gauge railways in Snowdonia
A narrow gauge steam railway in South Wales
Northern Ireland
The only full-sized heritage railway in Northern Ireland
From historic locomotives in Germany to grand steam festivals in France, Europe is home to some of the world’s best-preserved steam railways and traction engine societies.
A leading organisation restoring Austrian steam locomotives
One of France’s most scenic steam railway experiences
A breathtaking steam-powered railway through the Swiss Alps
A historical steam train operation in Switzerland
The USA and Canada were built on steam. Today, from preserved mainline locomotives to specialist heritage societies, North America continues to keep steam alive through museums, excursions, and ambitious restoration projects.
Famous for restoring "Big Boy" No. 4014
America’s oldest operating railroad with regular steam services
Dedicated to preserving steam heritage in Kentucky
Home to Canada’s largest collection of heritage railway equipment
From the legendary Darjeeling Himalayan Railway to New Zealand’s steam heritage movement, Asia and Australasia have a fascinating mix of working steam locomotives and thriving preservation societies.
A UNESCO World Heritage steam railway
South Australia’s home of heritage steam rail
Dedicated to the restoration of heritage locomotives
This is just the beginning. NTET is committed to building a worldwide steam directory, where organisations can connect, collaborate, and share knowledge. If you know of an organisation that should be listed here, let us know! By working together, we can ensure that the magic of steam never fades.