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About Us

Preserving Ireland’s Steam Heritage for Future Generations!

Meet the Team
Historic steam engine "The Emerald" on display at an outdoor event, surrounded by spectators and emitting steam. The vehicle showcases vintage engineering with a clearly visible brass chassis and intricately designed wheels.
Historic steam engine "The Emerald" on display at an outdoor event, surrounded by spectators and emitting steam. The vehicle showcases vintage engineering with a clearly visible brass chassis and intricately designed wheels.
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Explore Our Journey

Founded in 1964, the Irish Steam Preservation Society is dedicated to preserving and showcasing Ireland’s steam-powered history. From hosting Ireland’s longest-running steam rally to operating the only narrow-gauge steam train in the country, we work tirelessly to ensure future generations can experience the magic of steam.

1964 – The Irish Steam Preservation Society was established.
1971 – First-ever Stradbally Woodland Train ride launched.
1990s – Expansion of the National Steam Rally to become Ireland’s largest event of its kind.
2023 – Introduction of carbon-neutral biofuel, making the Steam Rally an eco-conscious event.

Our Mission

Board of Directors

Man smiling in a black fleece jacket with a logo, standing against a plain white background.
CEO of the ISPS

Nigel Glynn

Smiling woman wearing a dark blue shirt with "Irish Steam Preservation Society" logo, posed against a neutral background.
Company Secretary

Nicola Glynn

Man wearing a navy padded vest with a red zip and embroidered logo, smiling against a plain white background.
Company Pro

Peter O'Dwyer

A man wearing a black jacket with a red logo, standing against a plain white backdrop.

Thomas Carolan

Man in a black zip-up jacket with the "Irish Steam Preservation Society" logo, standing in front of a plain white wall.

Joe Casey

Woman with red hair smiles confidently, wearing a black polo shirt with a badge, set against a plain white background.

Kim MacNamara

Man wearing a black jacket with the Irish Steam Preservation Society logo, smiling against a plain background.

Michael Knowles

Man smiling in a dark jacket with the "Irish Steam Preservation Society" logo, set against a plain background.

Pat Delaney

Smiling man wearing spectacles and a black fleece jacket, posing against a plain wall background.

Gordon Condell

Plan Your Visit

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Getting Here

We’re just over an hour from Dublin, Limerick or Kilkenny. Located in Stradbally, Co. Laois, our site is easy to reach by road, train or bus.

Transport
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Facilities

Enjoy fresh coffee, Irish tea or homemade treats at the Coffee Dock near the entrance. A perfect stop to relax and recharge during your visit.

Explore
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FAQ

Have a question before you arrive? Our FAQ section covers tickets, accessibility, opening times and everything you need for your visit.

Learn More

Our Mission & Membership

At our core, we aim to:

  • Preserve – Protect and restore vintage steam engines and industrial machinery.
  • Educate – Share knowledge about steam technology through hands-on experiences.
  • Inspire – Engage visitors of all ages with the wonder of steam power and mechanical engineering.

Join the ISPS (Irish Steam Preservation Society) and help us with our goal to preserve Ireland’s steam heritage.

Membership Form
A young girl sits playfully on a brightly painted, oversized wheel of a vintage steam engine, with a historical building visible in the background. The vibrant colours and whimsical design highlight the charm of a festive event.
A young girl sits playfully on a brightly painted, oversized wheel of a vintage steam engine, with a historical building visible in the background. The vibrant colours and whimsical design highlight the charm of a festive event.
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“Wow. Incredible experience. Best steam machines on the planet, run by true enthusiasts. My autistic son loved it—even blew the whistle! I’m forever grateful for the kindness shown. A truly magical and memorable day for both of us.”

M. Goralski

“Loved going to the Steam Rally today. It was a wet day but still enjoyable. Steam engines, vintage cars, fun-fair, music and great food. Demonstrations, markets and family fun made it a perfect old-fashioned day out.”

U. Hennessy

“Great experience again this year, our third in a row. My 4-year-old loves the engines. Staff, train ride and overall presentation are top notch. Thanks to all the volunteers who keep it going—absolutely brilliant!”

G. Hughes

“A brilliant family day out that won’t break the bank. Volunteers are kind and knowledgeable, happy to answer questions. A perfect way to enjoy a few hours and soak up the atmosphere.”

G. Murphy

Read Testimonials

Explore Experiences

A vintage steam engine, marked "Foster," with red wheels, leads a parade.
Attractions

Steam & Vintage Rally

Step into a world of Steam Power & Vintage history with our must visit Steam Rally at the ISPS. Witness the power and nostalgia of steam & vintage engines.

Learn More
Young boy interacting with a miniature steam engine, surrounded by spectators. The scene is filled with steam, highlighting the vintage machinery and the boy's enthusiasm.
Tours

Private Educational Tours

Looking for a memorable group outing? The Irish Steam Preservation Society offers tailor-made tours for schools, organizations, and enthusiasts

Learn More
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Stay up to date

Join our mailing list to receive the latest news from the Irish Steam Preservation Society — including event announcements, restoration updates, and stories celebrating Ireland’s steam and industrial heritage.

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Supported By:

Laois Partnership Company logo.
Logo of the Clare Local Community Development Committee (LCDC). The text includes the Irish translation "Coiste um Fhorbairt Pobal Áitiúil an Chláir".
Logo of the Government of Ireland, alongside the text “Project Ireland 2040” in both Irish and English.
European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development logo.

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