Welcome to the Bristol Society of Model and Experimental Engineers (BSMEE). Founded in 1909, we are one of the UK’s oldest model engineering societies. We are dedicated to building locomotives, traction engines, clocks, ships and more, and proudly operate the Ashton Court Miniature Railway

About us

We aim to preserve and develop traditional model engineering skills while embracing new technologies and ideas. With a strong educational focus, we encourage learning through hands-on experience, mentoring, demonstrations, and collaborative projects – fostering curiosity and building engineering confidence.

Ashton Court Railway

A cornerstone of our work is the Ashton Court Miniature Railway, built in 1973 by the Society and operated by its dedicated volunteers.

Talks and Events

We run a programme of free public talks held at the Begbrook Social Club in Bristol. Recent highlights include hosting speakers from the A1 Steam Trust, the East Somerset Railway, and the BR Class 8 Steam Locomotive Trust.

Education

BSMEE’s Ellie Project is an award-winning initiative, funded by the society, that empowers young engineers through a hands-on model engineering experience, fostering creativity, confidence, and real-world problem-solving skills.

Membership

Do you have a passion for engineering? Join us to share skills, knowledge, and hands-on engineering. For more information and to find out more about the benefits of becoming a member, contact us:

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Public Events

May 2026
May 06
May 06, 20267:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Begbrook Talk: Railway Enthusiasm in Twenty-First-Century Britain
Begbrook Social Club, Begbrook Social Club, Frenchay Park Road
Stapleton, BS16 1HY United Kingdom
May 20
May 20, 20267:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Begbrook Talk: The Story of British Rail Engineering Limited
Begbrook Social Club, Begbrook Social Club, Frenchay Park Road
Stapleton, BS16 1HY United Kingdom