Magna
Science & Adventure Centre
Large injections, and yes probably ingestions as well, of cash have been used to transform the former Steel, Peech and Tozer steel works at Templeborough, Rotherham into a state of the art museum. Funnily enough if you have read the history pages this is the same steel works that was built over the Roman fort near Dead Man's Hollow. The museum is an interactive science adventure centre with four themed pavilions, two shows and an adventure playground.
Templeborough Steelworks
The Templeborough Steelworks was built in 1917, modified in the 1960's and became in the 1970's the largest foundry in Europe. It closed in 1993. The history of the Templeborough Steelworks can be found at History - Trade & Industry - Rotherham Iron & Steel Town - Steel, Peech and Tozer - Templeborough Steel Works.
The Transformation
The design of the new Magna makes full use of two massive 350 metres long, 35 metres tall bays that form the main cathedral-like shed, the interior of which is an awe-inspiring space with a scale only hinted at by the exterior. Pin holes in the cladding allow shafts of light to penetrate deep in to the dark interior.
The enormous nine-storey high transverse aisles form a striking entrance to the attraction, whilst inside artefacts from the original steel making process have been retained as evocative sculptures from the past. Only the old scrap and concast delivery bays, on the north side of the building, have been demolished. The main building has been retained, its steel structure displaying a patina of rust, heat and scorch marks, reminiscent of its past life.
Within the building, the original artefacts sit amongst the individually themed pavilions: earth, air, fire and water, each incorporating spectacular special effects, using the latest technology, to explore the four elements and the basic components of the steelmaking process. Lightweight walkways and bridges connect the exhibits horizontally with minimum intervention, whilst vertical access is provided via the refurbished transformer building.
The car park features the 'skeleton' of retained steel uprights of the crane rail supports and elements of the building's past, offering a dramatic three-dimensional backdrop to the sheer bulk of the main building. The new north elevation has been clad in profiled steel, matching the retained, black painted, cladding of the old building. The steelwork of the existing crane rails and hoppers is exposed.
Magna Science & Adventure Centre
Earth
The earth pavilion is a subterranean playground. It has a maze of tunnels and underground creatures - watch out for man-eating worms! You can handle a real JCB, shift rocks and heavy weights. There is also a rock face to explore.
Air
Air is a giant translucent airship suspended high above the ground. I can feel my stomach going heave already. Experience the force of a tornado, g-force and yes, for the Le Petomaine fans amongst you, fun with bodily wind. They must have heard the noise emanating from my tum.
Fire
Electricity, lightning, a fire tornado. Try out an electromagnetic crane, watch a blacksmith shape hot metal. Ah I can feel the warmth from here!
Water
Water, water everywhere and not a drop to drink! Games to play with water - don't much like the sound of the water cannons.
The Big Melt
The original arc furnace is the centre of a show recreating the making of molten steel.
The Face of Steel
The story of steel told through a multimedia exhibition.
Activities and Workshops
A variety of events for parents and children - at peak times only.
Tours and Demonstrations
Special tours and demonstrations - at peak times only.
Sci-Tek
Sci-Tek, a mind-blowing science and technology playground.
Aqua-Tek
Water based fun in the playground.
There are cafés, a restaurant, conference facilities and the inevitable gift shop available. Large car park. Steelworks tours available at set times. Disabled/pushchair access throughout - ask to use lifts if in doubt. NB there is low-level lighting in some parts which makes it difficult for anybody with a visual impairment.
Magna also hosts a wide variety of events
Address:- Magna Science & Adventure Centre, Sheffield Road, Templeborough, Rotherham S60 1DX. Tel. 44 (0)1709 720002. Fax. 44 (0)1709 820092. Website for more information, prices and events at www.visitmagna.co.uk.Magna is open 7 days a week from 10am to 5pm, Closed 24 - 27 December and 1 January and key dates through the year. Wear a coat in cold weather - it gets a bit parky. In fact I'd recommend you take a woolly pully with you whenever you go.