A HAMPSHIRE waterworks will open to the public in a rare insight into the county's drinking water network.

For one day next month, Twyford Waterworks will open to show how water has been pumped from deep within the Hampshire Downs for more than 120 years.

Visitors will be able to see the machinery once used to do this in action and learn about its history. 

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A furnace at Twyford waterworks (Image: Twyford Waterworks)

Twyford Waterworks will be open to the public on Sunday, August 4, when as much of the site will be open and in operation as possible. 

Young and old alike are invited to enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of a fully-functional Edwardian waterworks from 11am until 4pm.

On display, there will be a Hathorn Davey steam pumping engine utilising steam from a Babcock & Wilcox boiler.

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Large Ruston diesel pumping engines will also be up and running at various times during the day, along with a 1895 Crossley gas engine and other smaller pumps.

Lime kilns and water softening works, including the hydraulic engines working, will also be on show.

For those more interested in the great outdoors, there is a nature trail.

An industrial railway demonstration will also take place.

The tea room at the waterworks will be serving a variety of cakes and light refreshments alongside a barbeque.

For more information, visit twyfordwaterworks.co.uk.