300 years of the Steam Engine

2012 marks the anniversary of Thomas Newcomen,s Dudley Castle engine of 1712. And, arguably, the start of the industrial revolution. Undoubtedly there are other events this year which will receive infinitely more coverage.
There is an excellent publication available in WH Smith, which celebrates this anniversary;it is from the producers of Model Engineer magazine.Amongst some interesting articles there is a fairly comprehensive listing of museums to visit, principally those containing stationary steam engines and many in working order.
Spurred on by this publication, I recently visited Papplewick', Queen St Mill and Bancroft Mill, on their steaming days. These are excellent working museums which are staffed by very enthusiastic, informative and friendly people.