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Visiting the waterwheel at Aberdulais
Tucked into the steep-sided gorge of the River Dulais, Aberdulais is home to one of Europe’s largest power-generating waterwheels. Towering over eight metres in diameter, this remarkable piece of engineering once drove the tinplate works that powered a local industry – and now, after years of standing still, it’s turning once again.
The mighty waterwheel at Aberdulais
Crafted by apprentices and students from British Steel in Port Talbot, this remarkable feat of engineering is the largest electricity-generating overshot waterwheel in Europe. Measuring nearly 27 feet (8.2 metres) in diameter, it features 72 buckets and can complete five full rotations every minute.
Positioned in its original 19th-century wheel pit, the waterwheel would once have been connected to a flywheel system, driving the rollers of the Victorian tinplate works. In its heyday, two wheels operated here side by side – a powerful symbol of Aberdulais’ industrial ingenuity.
Power in motion
Harnessing the raw force of water, a three-stage gearbox accelerates the wheel’s slow, deliberate turn into the rapid spin needed to drive a shaft-mounted generator. At full flow, it can produce up to 20kW of electricity—enough to power the equivalent of several homes. On an average day, it generates between 100 and 120 kilowatt hours.
Installed in 1991, at a time when hydro-electric schemes were few and far between, Aberdulais was blazing a trail in green energy. Decades later, the site remains a symbol of innovation—proof that the future can be shaped by the past.
The Powerhouse Turbine
But the waterwheel is only part of Aberdulais’ energy narrative. Nestled alongside this iconic relic is our mighty turbine, a modern marvel capable of generating a staggering 200kW of clean power. Its robust energy output feeds directly into the National Grid, providing enough electricity to light up the entire neighbourhood. This powerhouse of renewable energy embodies the relentless spirit of innovation and transformation that has defined Aberdulais for centuries, bridging our industrial past with a sustainable future.
A new chapter for the wheel
After several years out of action, the waterwheel has recently undergone a major restoration project to bring it back into working condition. Corroded metalwork has been repaired, a striking new finish applied, and essential systems upgraded – all with the help of our expert teams and generous community fundraising.
Thanks to this careful conservation work, the wheel has now turned for the first time in over five years, and it’s nearly ready to be run regularly once again.
Powered by Community Spirit
The restoration was made possible thanks to generous support from the Friends of Aberdulais, who raised an incredible £46,000 towards the cost. The remaining funds came from the site’s own reserves, a true reflection of how much the waterwheel means to both local people and the National Trust team.
Their hard work, dedication and belief in the power of this project has been crucial – and we hope the results will inspire even more support for future conservation efforts.
The tradition of innovation continues
From its industrial past to its renewable energy future, Aberdulais remains a place of remarkable progress. The restoration of the waterwheel is just the latest chapter in a story that’s been turning for over 400 years – powered by nature, preserved by people, and shared with everyone who visits.
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