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 picturesque Chinnor and Princes Risborough Railway in Oxfordshire. These legendary locomotives deliver around 2,500 brake horsepower and have been a familiar sight on British railways since the early 1960s, hauling both passenger and freight trains across the country. While many have now been retired from mainline service, a handful remain carefully preserved, including the beautifully restored locomotive you will be driving. Your experience begins with a friendly welcome from the Chinnor Railway team, followed by a safety briefing to prepare you for your time in the cab. Once aboard the cab and the signal sounds, it is time to get moving as you guide the locomotive along the eight mile stretch between Chinnor and Princes Risborough. From the elevated cab, you will enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding countryside while getting a real feel for the power and presence of one of Britain’s classic diesel engines.
Buying as a gift? Frequently Asked Questions
Most customers buy a flexible voucher and book later. Here are the key things to know:
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What do I actually get on my driving experience?
Your voucher covers the driving experience shown on this page. The number of vehicles driven, experience format, duration or distance, and any included extras will vary depending on the package selected. Full details are shown in the experience description before purchase.
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Am I eligible to take part in a driving experience?
Eligibility requirements will vary depending on the experience and venue. Minimum age, driving licence requirements, and height or weight restrictions may apply. Please ensure that you check the experience details carefully before you make your booking.
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How do vehicles, venues and booking availability work?
Once purchased, you can activate and redeem your voucher against available dates at the listed venues. Vehicle availability may vary by location, and some dates may be more limited at busier times of the year, so it is recommended that you book as early as possible.
View all Driving Experience FAQs
View all Gift Voucher FAQs
General
- Type 4 Diesel Locomotive driving experience
- Experience runs with 4 participants alongside the train crew
- Drive the train for 4 miles (30 minutes at the controls)
- Warm welcome, introduction and safety briefing
- Familiarisation session with the locomotive to show how it works and the operating of its controls
- The loco is a 'light engine' (no carriages)
- Guidance from an experienced train driving instructor
- Allow approximately two hours for this experience, the train will drive the 16 mile round trip to Princes Risborough Station and back
Requirements
- The minimum age for this experience is 18
Restrictions
Minimum Age: 18 years
Maximum Age: 90 years
This product is not eligible for promotional discount codes.
Availability
- Please allow two hours on site
- This experience departs from and returnes to Chinnor Railway Station, Oxfordshire
How the Voucher Works
- Purchase the voucher online
- Receive your e-voucher or gift pack
- Redeem online to select location and date
- Enjoy your experience
