Now is your chance to try driving a heritage diesel locomotive on this exclusive train driving experience at the Pontypool and Blaenavon Railway in Wales! This charming heritage line is located on the fringes of the Brecon Beacons National Park, offering spectacular vistas to enjoy as you prepare to climb into the cab of a Class 37 electric diesel engine. You'll get the unique opportunity to enjoy 1:1 instruction from an experienced driver who will show you around all the various controls, as you depart from Furnace Sidings Station, with your destination being Big Pits station on this line that was first opened in 1983 to preserve and protect the Brynmawr to Pontypool line, before reversing back to Garn-yr Erw halt and taking the Class 37 south from Furnace Sidings non-stop through Blaenavon High Level and onto the terminus at Coed Avon. You'll be tackling one of the steepest gradients on any heritage railway in the UK, of 1:34, and seeing just how hard the engine works under such conditions. Overall, you can expect this to be a two hour session that is unique to you as well as offering real insight into what it was like to be a British Rail train driver in the 1960s!
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
- 1:1 Diesel Locomotive driving experience
- Welcome, introduction and safety briefing
- Sessions operate on an exclusive basis with just you and your train driving instructor
- Generally the Class 37 Fleet Number: D6916 (37216) Built in 1964 is used for this experience
- Familiarisation session with the locomotive to show how it works and the operating of its controls
- Drive the loco for 16 miles (two x journeys of Route 1 + Route 2)
- The loco is a 'light engine' (no carriages)
- Guidance from an experienced train driving instructor
- Allow approximately two hours for this experience
Route 1: Furnace Sidings station - Blaenavon High Level station - Coed Avon - Blaenavon High Level station - Furnace Sidings station - Whistle Inn halt - Furnace Sidings station
Route 2: Furnace Sidings station - Big Pit station - Furnace Sidings station - Whistle Inn halt - Furnace Sidings station - Big Pit station - Furnace Sidings station - Whistle Inn halt - Furnace Sidings station
Availability
- Selected weekday and weekend dates throughout the year from September 2026
- There will generally be 4 dates per month
- Due to the popularity of this experience please book well in advance to avoid disappointment
Anything Else
- Old clothing that fully covers the arms and legs should be worn
- Wear sturdy shoes or boots that protect the feet - trainers are not permitted
- Please note that once your booking is confirmed, the provider's terms and conditions will apply
- Ocassionally the Class 31 Fleet Number: ‘D5627’ (31203) Built in 1960 may be used for this experience
Restrictions
Minimum Age: 18 years
This product is not eligible for promotional discount codes.
Suitable For
- Minimum age 18
- Participants should be reasonably fit and in good health - fit enough to climb on and off the locomotive from ground level unaided
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
