Bradwell: Water, Wind and Rail

An evening at MK Museum 21 January 2026 5.30-7pm

As part of Milton Keynes City Council’s National Heritage Lottery Funded restoration project of Bradwell Windmill, we invite you to an evening of local history, exploring Bradwell and Wolverton’s extraordinary contribution to our country’s great transport and trade revolution in the 19th century.

Based on the soon-to-be restored windmill at Bradwell, local experts Phil Marsh (railway professional and author), David Wolfson (canal chronicler) and Richard Wilde (windmill manager and enthusiast) will bring us their take on some key moments in our area’s rich history.

The canal came first - and you’ll find out how it barged its way through our area, changing the landscape and livelihoods. Bradwell Windmill is there because of the canal. But who made it work? And then along came the railway, with its speed and noise, bringing Royal connections, urban development and huge prosperity.

This is the first in a planned series telling tales of people and technologies, and asking how things have changed over time.

We’re celebrating over 200 years of a shared history, as we look to a bright future for the canal, the restored windmill, and a celebration of our unique place in railway history.