Built between 1865 and 1868, Abbey Mills Pumping Station became affectionately known as the ‘Cathedral of Sewage’. Looking at its grand cupola and elaborate detailing, it is not hard to see why.

The Pumping Station was designed by engineer Joseph Bazalgette, Edmund Cooper and architect Charles Driver.

The building draws inspiration from a range of places and includes a Greek Cross plan, Italian Gothic-style features and a Russian Orthodox-style octagonal domed lantern. It is built from yellow brick, with blue and red brick detailing, stone dressings and plenty of ornate ironwork.

Its interior is no less impressive. Originally each wing housed a steam-powered engine to drive two pumps each. The engines have been replaced by electric motors, but much of the rest in unchanged. It features grand Victorian columns and arches, with decorative flourishes and ironwork ornaments.