Step into the enchanting world of steam with our extraordinary Steam Train Driving Experiences, designed for both seasoned locomotive enthusiasts and curious adventurers alike. Immerse yourself in the rich history and charm of these magnificent engines as you journey through the breathtaking British countryside. Each experience transports you back to the golden age of rail travel, where the rhythmic chug of the locomotive and the billowing steam evoke a sense of nostalgia for a bygone era. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking an unforgettable adventure, our carefully curated experiences promise not only the thrill of driving a steam train but also the chance to connect with a cherished piece of history. Join us for a magical ride that rekindles the spirit of the 20th century, and create memories that will last a lifetime
For those who are passionate about their vintage diesel locomotives, this gold level 1:1 diesel train driving experience in Derbyshire will surely ti ...
Silver Mainline Diesel Locomotive Train Driving Day
Derbyshire
Heritage diesel locomotive enthusiasts will relish the chance to enjoy driving one for real whilst hauling a passenger train of three coaches on this ...
Silver Steam Train Driving Day at Ecclesbourne Valley Railway
Derbyshire
Join the crew for the day and take the controls on a proper steam locomotive at the Ecclesbourne Valley Railway with our Silver Experience. This is n ...
Bronze Steam Train Driving Day at Ecclesbourne Valley Railway
Derbyshire
Step into the boots of a real railway crew member and take control of a steam locomotive for the day at the charming Ecclesbourne Valley Railway in D ...
Those diesel locomotive enthusiasts in Derbyshire that have longed to drive one of these classic trains will get their chance to, on this brilliant h ...
Those with a keen interest in classic diesel locomotives will simply love the chance to drive a bonafide Class 37 diesel for real on this 60 minute d ...
Diesel locomotive enthusiasts in Wales will relish the opportunity to drive a genuine Class 37 diesel on this 30 minute train driving experience vouc ...
Now is your chance to try driving a heritage diesel locomotive on this exclusive train driving experience at the Pontypool and Blaenavon Railway in W ...
Step into the cab for a one-to-one Type 4 Diesel Locomotive driving experience, a rare chance to take the controls of a powerful train. Your day begi ...
Step aboard the cab of a powerful Type 4 diesel locomotive for a truly hands-on driving experience along the scenic Chinnor and Princes Risborough Ra ...
Here is your chance to step onto the cab of a mighty Type 4 diesel locomotive and take the controls for a shared driving experience along the picture ...
Chinnor Railway train driving experiences offer you the chance to operate a Type 4 diesel locomotive along the Chinnor & Princes Risborough Railway i ...
Chinnor Railway Train Driving Experience. Take the opportunity to operate a Type 4 diesel locomotive on the Chinnor & Princes Risborough Railway in O ...
1:1 Exclusive Train Driver Experience at Chinnor Railway
Oxfordshire
Experience an exclusive train drive at the Chinnor Railway! These one-on-one sessions let you operate a restored British Railway diesel locomotive, t ...
Steam train enthusiasts in Nottinghamshire can book onto this most fun sized of experiences, driving a miniature steam engine at the Sherwood Forest ...
1 to 1 Train Driving Experience at East Kent Railway
Kent
Every locomotive enthusiast had the dream to get their hands on the controls of a train. This 1:1 Train Driving Experience along the East Kent Railwa ...
Those who are enthusiastic about vintage diesel engines will hardly believe their luck when they go on this exciting experience, which will see them ...
How long can you drive a train during a train driving experience?
The amount of time you spend driving a train depends on the length of the railway track and the specific experience you book. Most train driving experiences include at least one full round trip along the line. Track lengths can vary significantly, from around one mile to over 20 miles, so it's worth checking the experience details for exact journey times.
Will I drive a steam train or a diesel locomotive?
Train driving experiences may involve either a steam locomotive, a diesel locomotive, or sometimes both, depending on the railway and package you choose. Many heritage railways operate a mix of both types, and the specific train you will drive will always be outlined in the experience description before booking.
Can you take part in signalling and other railway tasks during a train driving experience?
Yes, some train driving experiences offer more than just time at the controls. Depending on the package, you may also have the chance to assist with traditional railway tasks such as signalling, token exchange (used on single-track lines), and preparing the locomotive, including refilling water for steam engines. These added elements help create a more immersive and authentic experience. Please see the description of each package to see what's included.
Will I be sharing the train driver experience with anyone else?
This depends on the railway and the type of train driving experience you book. Some experiences are shared between two participants, where one person may assist with duties such as managing the coal or controls while the other drives, before swapping roles during the session. Other experiences, particularly diesel train driving packages, may be operated on a one-to-one basis with just you and the instructor or train operator in the cab. Please check the individual experience page for full details on how the session is structured.
Don your Train Drivers cap and get behind the controls of these wonderful vintage locomotives on one of our Steam Train Driving Experiences. Flying through the British Countryside and taking control is any train enthusiast's dream! Whether it's a love of many years or a recent interest, seeing how these huge engines turn is an opportunity that would make anyone excited.
With guidance from experienced and passionate instructors, you will be a Steam Train Driving expert in no time. You might even get to sound the horn as the fluffy white steam bellows over the carriages.
These experiences are perfect presents, whether to celebrate one of life's milestones or as a treat for someone who just loves trains. There is no doubt you will be on the top of the favourites list when they open up their gift.
Where Can I Drive A Steam Train For The Day?
Britain has a long and proud history of heritage steam railways, many of which are run and maintained by a faithful team of enthusiasts and volunteers, and wherever you're based in the UK, there's sure to be one near you with a wealth of vintage steam to explore.
The Great Central Railway in Leicestershire, which hosts our Bronze Steam Train Driving Day, begins at Loughborough and terminates at Leicester North on a 16 mile round trip, that not only offers spectacular views across the East Midlands countryside, but also has a fleet of carefully preserved steam locomotives and a fully working signal box.
Also offering maximum fun - but on a smaller scale - is the 5/8th scale narrow gauge Sherwood Forest Railway, with miniature but mighty steam and diesel engines run and owned by a family company on a 1 mile long track.
Speaking of diesel engines, if it's the heritage British Rail Class 08 and Class 404 that gets you roaring into life, then the East Kent Railway down in Kent should provide the perfect opportunity to drive such a diesel, on a 2.4 mile long track which also includes the Golgotha tunnel, one of the longest such tunnels on a preservation railway in the UK.
Booking a Steam Train Driving Experience
Currently, you can book for a Steam or Diesel Train driving experience here on TrackDays via our open Gift Vouchers. When you can redeem and use the voucher, you'll get in touch with our Customer Service team first to do so.
We'll then contact the supplier at the venue, and they'll then get in touch with you directly to make all the necessary arrangements and confirm the booking with you - so you can look forward to the time when you're shouting “Full Steam Ahead!” from the footplate.
And whether it's a gift for Father's Day, a milestone 50th or 60th Birthday or a special Retirement Gift, giving a Steam Train driving experience should be a special present to mark any occasion and leave the recipient feeling chuffed!
Want to experience the magic of riding on a heritage train but letting the professionals do all the hard work? Visit our Steam Train Trips page to browse and book from available vouchers.
Train Spotting
This video isn't related to our train driving experiences but we just love this guy! If you are half as enthusiastic as Francis then these are the experiences for you.
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Driving Experience Dates 
Derbyshire
