Our Story
We’re a small, spirited charity restoring SS Freshspring, sharing steamship stories and hands‑on adventures with every visitor.
About the Steamship Freshspring Trust
SS Freshspring is owned and managed by the Steamship Freshspring Trust, a registered charity (CIO 1151907) dedicated to advancing public education, particularly for young people, through the ship’s preservation and future operation.
Listed on the National Register of Historic Vessels since 1996, Freshspring is the only remaining example of her class and one of the many small coasting steamers of the 20th century.
Our Vision
Preserve the past to inspire knowledge for the future: SS Freshspring steaming once more as a travelling ambassador for heritage, STEAM learning and skills.
What We Do
- Conserve & Operate Maintain SS Freshspring as a living exhibit of mid-20th-century marine engineering, showcasing steam-engine technology developed in the 19th century.
- Inspire Young People Run hands‑on programmes that spark interest in maritime and engineering careers.
- Teach Practical Skills Offer training in historic‑ship care, steam machinery and vessel management.
Patrons & Trustees
Our mission is guided by three active patrons—The Rt Hon Earl Attlee, Rear Admiral Nigel Guild CB CEng FREng, and Captain Kevin Slade MNM CMMar FNI—and up to seven trustees whose expertise spans maritime operations, education, finance, fundraising and public engagement.
Learning & Community
From school visits and family activity days to engineering workshops, our educational programmes ignite curiosity and provide real‑world STEAM experience.
