Step into Sydney’s steam-era past with Forged in Steel, a guided heritage walking tour through South Eveleigh’s historic workshop precinct.

Created with Harbour City Tours as part of South Eveleigh’s Rekindled Winter program, these immersive tours uncover the stories, people and trades that shaped one of Australia’s most significant railway sites. Families can explore the heritage-listed precinct while learning about the engineers, blacksmiths, apprentices and workers who helped build and repair the locomotives that powered the NSW rail network.

Along the way, you’ll see original machinery, cranes, forges and industrial artefacts that survive from the steam era, offering a rare glimpse into the craft, grit and innovation that once filled the yards.

Tours are free, but places are limited and bookings are required.

Tour times
Wednesdays and Thursdays: From 12pm and 1pm
Saturdays: From 11am and 1pm

Rekindled Winter at South Eveleigh
Make a day of it with a visit to the Rekindled Lounge, a nostalgic indoor-outdoor winter space on the corner of Locomotive Street and Mitchell Way, opposite Anita Gelato.

Open from Tuesday 16 June to Saturday 18 July, the lounge is designed as a cosy place to slow down, reconnect and enjoy simple winter fun, from classic board games and jukebox tunes to letter writing, crafts and quiet sensory time.

Rekindled Lounge open hours
Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays: 11am–6pm
Thursdays: 11am–9pm
Saturdays: 9am–6pm
Sundays and Mondays: Closed

Special Rekindled Lounge events
Cosy Tuesdays: Knit Club from 12pm–12.45pm

Warm-Up Wednesdays: The first 50 visitors from 11am receive a token for a warm cookie and gelato from Anita Gelato

Crafternoon Thursdays: Creative activities from 11am–2pm, including iron-on patches, button badge making and spirograph crafts

Vinyl Night Thursdays: Live vinyl DJ from 5pm–9pm, with BrewDog favourites available to order to the lounge

S’mores Saturdays: The first 100 visitors can enjoy a complimentary sweet or savoury s’more from 9am. Not suitable for kids under eight; children must be accompanied by an adult. Family-friendly craft activities will also run throughout the day

Unwind Hour: Quiet, self-guided sensory time from 2pm–3pm every Tuesday to Saturday

Event details
What: Forged in Steel heritage walking tours
When: 17-18 July

Cost: Free, bookings required
Best for: Families, train lovers, history buffs and curious kids
Bookings: Book via the South Eveleigh website