Most people know we’re the leading retailer of classic SU, Amal and Zenith carburetters, fuel pumps and components. But what many people don’t know is that our factory doors are open to tours and visits by the general public.
Over the years we’ve welcomed many classic bike and car clubs behind the scenes to see how the magic happens (spoiler: it’s not magic. It’s years of experience and robust British engineering).
Here’s what you can expect from a tour at Burlen.
What happens on a factory tour?
Step inside our historic building, an ex-dispersal factory where Spitfire aircraft were assembled during the Second World War, and take a journey through the stories and continuing legacy of the brands that call our Salisbury headquarters home.
Our team of experts will take you through the warehouse where thousands of items are stocked, ready for customers worldwide.
Down on the fuel pump line you’ll be able to observe the machinery we use every day to build and test fuel pumps for SU (much of which we bought from the original factory when acquiring the brand). Further along, our SU production line is where we transform castings into fully operational units ready for customer vehicles.
Inside the restoration department, you’ll see the projects our experts are bringing back to life. During wintertime we receive an influx of carburetters that’ve seen better days, and with a little TLC from our restoration wizards, we can make them shiny and functional once again.
Meanwhile, in our Austin Pedal Cars workshop, see firsthand the intricate work of our pedal car experts, who carefully disassemble lost J40s to clean, buff and restore them to their former glory. Here you can also see a glimpse of our heritage collection and on-going projects.
In addition to sustaining historic pieces of technology (including a lot of original machinery from the Amal and SU factories), our machine shop is dedicated to the development and expansion of our Amal carburetters. Currently holding six machines in total, including two from the global leader DMG MORI, this exciting area of the business is rapidly growing. Our brand new 5-Axis Mill with a recently-installed (and rather futuristic-looking) robot arm from XYZ Tooling allows us far greater control over the quality and tolerance adherence of our output.
What are people saying about tours at Burlen?
We’re proud to show off what we do at Burlen, but it’s our customers’ words that matter most. Carl Bailey, member of the Morgan Sports Car Club, had this to say about his visit:
“As the local group of the Morgan Sports Car Club we have over forty gatherings, events, visits, lunches etc. a year. We don't have an event of the year award, but if we did, then I think yesterday's visit to Burlen would be way out front. From our perspective it was truly excellent in EVERY respect…
…it was wonderful to see how you had blended traditional technologies and products with modern manufacturing methods. And all whilst maintaining a passion for the product.”
When Kim Henson of Wheels-Alive came to visit us in October last year, he said:
“For 54 years Burlen has been helping owners of classic vehicles keep them on the road, providing top quality fuel system components that deliver reliability, excellent performance, low emissions and optimum fuel consumption.
These days the firm continues this tradition, applying new approaches as required and keeping its focus firmly on quality and customer satisfaction.
My thanks to Matt Merriman for showing me Burlen’s extensive operations; I found my visit fascinating and informative.”
We welcomed the Blind Man Morris family on a tour of the factory earlier this year. Here is Jon feeling a top secret product launch coming soon. Jon said:
"Thank you so much to you and Matt and the team for all your time this morning, it was amazing!"
How much does it cost?
It’s completely free! Our full factory tours last approximately 2-and-a-half hours; however we can adapt for those who wish for a shorter tour or have a particular area of interest.
How can I book a tour?
If you're a member of a classic car or bike club, or simply curious to see what goes on behind the scenes here at Burlen, get in touch to arrange a visit. You can email us at info@burlen.co.uk or speak to one of our friendly team on the phone: 01722 412500.
We look forward to showing you around!
