Revisit a golden age of both motoring and steam on this truly nostalgic day trip with classic cars, buses and steam trains in the heart of Derbyshire! You'll be heading out on a trip that includes return travel on one of three vintage buses faithfully run and maintained by a leading coach operator: Ernie, Walter and Ethel. The first stop on your trip will be to the Ambergate Car Museum in the Derwent Valley, home of the Great British Car Journey, which celebrates the rich history of automotives in this country from 1900 right up to the present day. Then it's time to get back on the bus, and head deep into the Peak District to stop at the Ecclesbourne Valley Railway. You'll be departing on a steam driven passenger train on a return journey from Wirksworth Station, running a beautiful heritage railway line, all the while enjoying a tasty Ploughman's lunch served at your table on board, including cheese, pickles, crusty bread, maybe even a pork pie or two. Overall, it promises to be a day that vintage train, car and bus enthusiasts will love!
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.
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What's Included
- Travel by vintage bus to the Great British Car Journey Museum
- Receive Entry to the museum exhibition, boasting over 100 carefully selected cars
- Spend around 1.5-2 hours at the museum
- This voucher is valid for One person
What's Included
- Travel by vintage bus to the Great British Car Journey Museum
- Entry to the museum exhibition, boasting over 100 carefully selected cars
- Spend around 1.5-2 hours at the museum
- Enjoy an interactive tour with headsets provided
- Continue on the bus to the Ecclesbourne Valley Railway
- Enjoy a freshly prepared ploughman's lunch served aboard the steam train
- Drinks can be purchased from the licensed bar, available on the train
- Travel through the picturesque Derbyshire countryside for your one-hour and thirty-minute journey
- Return travel from the railway in the vintage bus
The Vintage Buses
- Ernie: 1936 Leyland
- Walter: 1946 AEC
- Ethel: 1956 Bedford coach
Suitable For
- Under 18s must be accompanied by a participating adult
Availability
- Vouchers are valid for use on 12th September 2026
- Due to popularity, it is recommended you book well in advance to avoid disappointment
- Please note: Once you have booked your date 28 days' notice is required should you need to change your booking
- Any changes made within 28 days will result in your experience being forfeited.
Location:
- The Great British Car Journey Museum, Ambergate, Derbyshire
- Ecclesbourne Valley Railway, Wirksworth, Derbyshire
Depart from your choice of the following Nottinghamshire locations at around 09:00, returning for approx 17:00
- Sutton: Sutton-in-Ashfield, NG17
- Annesley Woodhouse: Kirkby in Ashfield NG17
- Kirkby: in Ashfield Kirkby in Ashfield NG17
Anything Else
- Please note that in the event of a mechanical failure, we reserve the right to substitute the Steam Locomotive for a Heritage Diesel Locomotive
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
