Diesel Railway & Steam Train Driving Experiences
In this article:
All aboard the adventure train! Get ready to chug along on an unforgettable railway escapade that will leave you feeling like a true locomotive legend. Whether you’re a die-hard train aficionado or just seeking a unique and exhilarating gift, my hand-picked selection of steam and diesel train experiences is sure to steam up some excitement. Brace yourself for a journey through time and technology, where you’ll not only ride the rails but also get your hands on the controls of these magnificent machines!
Calling all steam dreamers! Ever wondered what it feels like to command a majestic steam engine as it powers through breathtaking landscapes? These steam train experiences are tailor-made for those who long for the romanticism of a bygone era. Don your overalls, grab the throttle, and immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of classic railway travel. It’s a ticket to nostalgia that will have you whistling with joy and reminiscing about the golden age of steam. And for those looking to surprise a loved one with an unforgettable gift, why not give them the chance to fulfil their childhood dreams and become a certified steam train maestro?
Ready to embrace the diesel delights? Step into the world of modern railway marvels with our diesel train experiences, perfect for those eager to explore the cutting-edge of locomotive technology. Feel the raw power under your fingertips as you navigate the tracks with precision and finesse. These experiences are not just a ride but a full-fledged adventure into the heart of industrial innovation.
| Experience | Location | Distance | Min. Age | Where to Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Steam Train Driving | East Somerset Railway, Shepton Mallet, Somerset | 1 leg (2.5 miles) | 16+ | Into the Blue° |
| Steam Train Driving | Great Central Railway, Loughborough, Leicestershire | 1 round trip (16 miles) | 18+ | Into the Blue° |
| Steam Train Driving | Great Central Railway, Loughborough, Leicestershire | 2 round trips (32 miles) | 18+ | Into the Blue° |
| Diesel Train Driving | East Kent Railway, Dover, Kent | 1 round trip | 18+ | Into the Blue° |
| Diesel Train Driving | East Somerset Railway, Shepton Mallet, Somerset | 1 leg (2.5 miles) | 16+ | Into the Blue° |
| Diesel Train Driving | Great Central Railway, Loughborough, Leicestershire | 2 round trips (32 miles) | 18+ | Into the Blue° |
| 1950s Diesel Train Driving | Ecclesbourne Valley Railway, Wirksworth, Derbyshire | 1 round trip (18 miles) | 18+ | Find Me a Gift° |
| Two Diesel Locos Train Driving | Ecclesbourne Valley Railway, Wirksworth, Derbyshire | 1 round trip (18 miles) | 18+ | Into the Blue° Experience Days° |
| Narrow Gauge Train Driving | Sherwood Forest, Nottingham | 1 trip (30-40 mins) | 18+ | Buyagift° Into the Blue° Red Letter Days° |
Save 20% on selected experiences up to £250. Exclusions apply. Use voucher code ITBMAY2024 at the checkout. Shop at Into the Blue°
Ends on Monday 6th May 2024.
Train Driving Activity Highlights
- Hands-on Locomotive Adventure: Take control of either a steam and diesel engine, guided by knowledgeable instructors, for an immersive and thrilling railway experience.
- Scenic Delights: Enjoy picturesque landscapes and stunning views along meticulously maintained heritage railway routes, adding an extra layer of charm to your adventure.
- Unforgettable Memories: Create lasting memories for yourself or your loved ones with a unique and exciting gift perfect for any train enthusiast or adventurous spirit.
- Exclusive Behind-the-Scenes Access: Gain exclusive access to behind-the-scenes tours, signal box visits, and workshops (depending on location), providing an in-depth understanding of the rich heritage and operational intricacies of the railway industry.
- Nostalgic and Modern Experiences: Choose between nostalgic steam train adventures, evoking the romanticism of a bygone era, or the thrill of commanding modern diesel locomotives, highlighting the evolution of railway technology.
What to Expect When Driving a Train
Step into the world of railway excitement with a diverse array of options tailored to cater to every locomotive lover’s dream.
There are two very different train driving experience days available – nostalgic steam train footplate experiences or diesel locomotive driving.
Steam Driver Experience
Travel back to the golden age of steam travel, with you at the helm of a magnificent breathing locomotive.
- Hands-on locomotive operation: Drive a steam train and get behind the controls of a historic steam locomotive for a truly immersive experience.
- Expert guidance: Receive comprehensive guidance and instruction from seasoned railway professionals throughout your adventure.
- Scenic journey: Traverse through picturesque landscapes and enjoy breathtaking views along the railway routes, creating unforgettable memories.
- Exclusive tours: Gain exclusive access to behind-the-scenes tours of signal boxes and workshops (depending on location), offering an insightful glimpse into the heritage of railway operations.
- Nostalgic adventure: Capture the essence of a bygone era and indulge in the romance and charm of historic steam travel, perfect for any railway enthusiast or history buff.
Diesel Engine Train Driver
Embrace the raw power of modern diesel technology as you ride the rails in a shunter locomotive.
- Locomotive control: Take the helm of a powerful DMU (Diesel Multiple unit) locomotive, including the likes of the Thomas Hill Vanguard Class, Class 37, Class 25, and British Rail Class 08.
- Professional Instruction: Benefit from expert guidance and instruction provided by experienced railway professionals throughout the entirety of your adventure.
- Scenic exploration: Enjoy a scenic journey through picturesque landscapes and relish the opportunity to view the surrounding areas from a unique vantage point.
- Exclusive access: Gain exclusive access to behind-the-scenes tours of workshops and signal boxes, providing a comprehensive understanding of modern railway operations.
- Modern excitement: Embrace the excitement of contemporary railway technology and discover the modern marvels of diesel locomotive travel, catering to both adventurous spirits and locomotive enthusiasts.
FAQs
You’ve got questions and I’ve got answers. But I can’t explain why the 16:04 from London Paddington is delayed – again (other than it runs on the antiquated British railway network).
Do I need any prior experience to participate in the steam or diesel driving experiences?
No, prior experience is not required for participation. These experiences are designed to cater to both novices and seasoned enthusiasts.
In fact, these are often a great introduction to the volunteering options at your local heritage railway depot. They’re also fantastic tasters for those considering a career on the tracks.
You’ll receive a safety briefing before you begin so this experience doesn’t derail.
What should I wear for the experience?
Participants are advised to wear sturdy footwear and comfortable clothing suitable for the weather conditions on the day of the experience. Where protective equipment is required, the venues normally supply this.
Can I bring my family or friends along to watch?
Yes, in most cases, participants are allowed to bring a limited number of guests to accompany them and enjoy the ride from the carriages. However, specific terms may vary depending on the experience and location, and some venues charge a small supplement to help cover operational costs of running a heritage railway.
Are refreshments provided during the experience?
Depending on the length of your session, some experiences include complimentary lunch or refreshments for the participants
Spectators normally have the option to purchase food and beverages on-site.
Is there an age limit for participants?
For insurance and safety purposes, the minimum age requirement for participants is typically 18 years+, depending on the specific experience. However, it is advisable to check the age requirements for each individual experience before booking.
How long is the experience?
It depends on location and package, but some include full round trip loops of a heritage railway network, while others offer enough for a full day of immersion in this fascinating world of locomotives and train tracks.
When is the next train due?
Experiences typically run mid-week (occasional weekend dates are sometimes available) between February and November.
These experiences are EXTREMELY popular, so book at least six months ahead if you can.
Is it just me, the instructor and the open tracks?
Some experiences are one-to-one, while others are shared between a small group. Check the details before you book to know exactly what you are getting.
This Train Driving Experience is 100% For You if…
- Choo-choo cheerleader: If the mere mention of trains makes you whistle with glee, this experience will have you tooting your own horn in no time!
- Locomotive lover: For those who’ve always secretly believed they were born in the wrong era and long to embrace their inner Victorian steam pioneer or retro diesel enthusiast.
- Rail romance: If you’re the type to swoon over the old-world charm of a vintage train, prepare to fall head over heels for these classic locomotives and their enchanting journeys.
- Ticket to nostalgia: Take a trip down memory lane and relive childhood fantasies of becoming the ultimate train conductor, complete with overalls and a cap (which we’ll provide, of course!).
- All aboard the Fun Express: For anyone seeking an adventure that’s not just off the beaten track, but actually on the track itself, where the only rush hour you’ll experience is the exhilaration of controlling your own locomotive!
- Appreciate the relationship between driver and fireman: Learn the intricate art of stoking and tending the fire to keep the locomotive running smoothly throughout the steam train experience.
Avoid This Experience if…
- Motion malcontent: If the idea of a little jostling and chugging along isn’t your cup of tea and you’d prefer a smoother ride, this might not be the adventure for you.
- Dust bunny dilemma: If the thought of a dash of dust or a puff of smoke is enough to send you into a sneezing fit, it might be best to keep this one at arm’s length.
- High-speed hesitation: If the mere idea of taking things at full steam ahead makes you break out in a sweat, you might prefer a leisurely ride rather than taking the controls.
Train Driving Experiences
All aboard for an unforgettable journey through the wonders of railway history! Don’t miss your chance to step into the shoes of a true locomotive legend and experience the thrill of commanding these magnificent machines first-hand. Whether you’re a devoted train enthusiast or on the hunt for an extraordinary gift for someone special, these steam and diesel train experiences are the perfect ticket to excitement and adventure. Take the plunge and make memories that will last a lifetime, as you traverse picturesque routes, delve into the heart of railway operations, and indulge in the joy of becoming a certified train conductor for a day.
Seize the opportunity now to be part of an exclusive club of railway adventurers! Embrace the magic of steam or revel in the modern marvels of diesel as you soak in the stunning landscapes and revel in the romance of the rails. Don’t let this train pass you by – hop on board and let the adventure begin! Book your spot today and get ready to embark on an exhilarating journey that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the rich heritage and timeless allure of the railway world.
How it works
It’s super simple.
- Buy an activity voucher from the list below. Upgrade to a gift pack if you want to give it to a friend or family member as a birthday of Christmas present.
Top tip: If you need a last minute gift idea, e-vouchers arrive very fast. - They (or you if you’ve treated yourself) then redeem the voucher by following the instructions upon it. This is when you book a date and time for your activity. Vouchers usually have a 9-12 month life on them, so there’s plenty of time to book a suitable date.
- Go, go, go! Enjoy yourself and savour this once-in-a-lifetime experience!
If you live near the venue, make a day trip of it. If you live further away, you might want to make a short break of it, with a night in a nearby hotel.
Best Buys
| Experience | Location | Distance | Min. Age | Where to Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Steam Train Driving | East Somerset Railway, Shepton Mallet, Somerset | 1 leg (2.5 miles) | 16+ | Into the Blue° |
| Steam Train Driving | Great Central Railway, Loughborough, Leicestershire | 1 round trip (16 miles) | 18+ | Into the Blue° |
| Steam Train Driving | Great Central Railway, Loughborough, Leicestershire | 2 round trips (32 miles) | 18+ | Into the Blue° |
| Diesel Train Driving | East Kent Railway, Dover, Kent | 1 round trip | 18+ | Into the Blue° |
| Diesel Train Driving | East Somerset Railway, Shepton Mallet, Somerset | 1 leg (2.5 miles) | 16+ | Into the Blue° |
| Diesel Train Driving | Great Central Railway, Loughborough, Leicestershire | 2 round trips (32 miles) | 18+ | Into the Blue° |
| 1950s Diesel Train Driving | Ecclesbourne Valley Railway, Wirksworth, Derbyshire | 1 round trip (18 miles) | 18+ | Find Me a Gift° |
| Two Diesel Locos Train Driving | Ecclesbourne Valley Railway, Wirksworth, Derbyshire | 1 round trip (18 miles) | 18+ | Into the Blue° Experience Days° |
| Narrow Gauge Train Driving | Sherwood Forest, Nottingham | 1 trip (30-40 mins) | 18+ | Buyagift° Into the Blue° Red Letter Days° |
Save 20% on selected experiences up to £250. Exclusions apply. Use voucher code ITBMAY2024 at the checkout. Shop at Into the Blue°
Ends on Monday 6th May 2024.
The perfect accompaniment to a gift voucher box for a real train enthusiast is a working model of a locomotive. These might be of interest. Wrap one up along with the gift voucher for a seriously epic present for train lovers.
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