The Testing Works is a fantastic historical location, ideal for unique photography and film shoots and small events.

The Testing Works is located in the heart of London on Southwark Street, a 10 minute walk from Blackfriars and Southwark stations.

The two-storey museum was completed in 1874 and houses the world’s first Universal Testing Machine – built to test the strength of steel girders and other building materials. This 44-foot-long hydraulic press provides an iconic focal point for the main ground-floor space. Other pieces of machinery are scattered throughout the ground and basement floors.

The Machine Room

The Machine Room is our ground floor space which boasts wooden floorboards, natural light and stunning original features. This room houses the Testing Machine, as well as a number of other large and small mechanical objects.

The Office

The ground floor Office has been kept as the proprietors of the Testing Works used it. It features 19th century writing materials, book cabinets and mechanical specimens. It is an ideal location for period shoots.

The Basement

The Basement offers exposed brickwork and a range of backdrops. Of particular interest for filming and photography is a long corridor with recesses along one side.

The Basement also contains a small green-room, toilets, and kitchenette facilities.