Crossley Engine – Documentary & Q&A


Discover more about a forgotten piece of industrial history with a special documentary and a Q&A session.

Close-up of engine being held in a harness.
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A brand-new documentary, Potential Energy, reveals the incredible story of one of the world’s oldest surviving Crossley four-stroke engines — hidden under the attic of an old Edinburgh Police Station for over a century.

During renovations in the attic of CoDE The Court – the building above The Lost Close – an exceptionally rare Victorian Crossley engine was found, having been hidden for decades. Built in 1878, this marvel of Victorian engineering was far ahead of its time. It was used to regulate the temperature of the Edinburgh Police Chambers, and its survival offers a rare glimpse into 19th century innovation. Remarkably, this engine is the second-oldest surviving Crossley four-stroke engine in the world and the oldest in Europe.

Old-fashioned engine, with pump and wheel, sitting on a stone wall.
© James Armandary Photography

Through this documentary and a Q&A session, the story of this extraordinary discovery will be examined. Visitors will be able to hear about how the engine was found, preserved, and moved from the attic to the underground vault.

Commencing at the Scottish Storytelling Centre, the evening will comprise a screening of Potential Energy, followed by a Q&A session with James Armandary (Tourism Development Lead of The Lost Close), Andrew Landsburgh(CEO of CoDE Concepts), and a Crossley engine specialist. Guests will then be able to enjoy a guided visit to The Lost Close to explore the underground space and view the historic Crossley engine up-close.

Tickets, which are priced at £11.55 per person, should be booked on Crossley Engine – Documentary & Engine Preview.