What is a junior driving experience?

A junior driving experience allows children and teenagers (typically aged 10–17) to drive a car in a controlled environment under professional supervision.

Do children need a driving licence?

No, a driving licence is not required for junior driving experiences.

What cars can juniors drive?

Depending on the experience, juniors can drive a range of vehicles including supercars, sports cars and dual-controlled learner vehicles.

Is it safe for children to take part?

Yes, all junior driving experiences are run by qualified instructors with safety measures in place, including dual controls where required.

Are there age or height restrictions?

Yes, each experience has specific age, height and sometimes weight requirements for safety reasons.

Can parents or guardians attend?

Yes, most venues allow spectators and have designated viewing areas.

'Summer Special' Vintage Bus and Steam Train Day Trip Gift Voucher

Overview

Get ready for the Summer Special vintage bus and steam train experience! Enjoy a fantastic day in Derbyshire that features vintage buses, heritage railways, and the seaside charm of Matlock Bath, a Peak District town! Your nostalgic adventure begins with a pickup in a beautifully restored vintage coach, with options to stop in North Nottinghamshire. You’ll then embark on a wonderful journey to Wirksworth, home of the Ecclesbourne Valley Railway. Experience the longest heritage railway in Derbyshire as you travel by steam train from Wirksworth to Duffield, with stops at Idridgehay and Shottle stations. Onboard, you can find a licensed bar offering a full selection of drinks for your enjoyment on the trip. Afterwards, a vintage coach will take you to Matlock Bath, where you’ll have free time to explore in the afternoon. On sunny weekends and Bank Holidays, the town draws numerous motorbikers, making it a lively spot to visit. We suggest taking a stroll along the North and South Parade, stopping for a bite to eat (fish and chips are a must!) and enjoying some ice cream. Consider visiting the Aquarium and spending a few pennies at the game arcades! Enjoy a coffee on a terrace overlooking the River Derwent, then head to the Derwent Gardens at the southern end of town. Cross the bridge to take Lover’s Walk under the trees back to the train station area. Your vintage coach will be waiting in Matlock Bath to return you to your original departure point after an amazing summer special day out in Derbyshire, filled with delightful vintage travel and sightseeing!

Buying as a gift? Frequently Asked Questions

Most customers buy a flexible voucher and book later. Here are the key things to know:

What is a junior driving experience? A junior driving experience allows children and teenagers (typically aged 10–17) to drive a car in a controlled environment under professional supervision.
Do children need a driving licence? No, a driving licence is not required for junior driving experiences.
What cars can juniors drive? Depending on the experience, juniors can drive a range of vehicles including supercars, sports cars and dual-controlled learner vehicles.
Is it safe for children to take part? Yes, all junior driving experiences are run by qualified instructors with safety measures in place, including dual controls where required.
Are there age or height restrictions? Yes, each experience has specific age, height and sometimes weight requirements for safety reasons.
Can parents or guardians attend? Yes, most venues allow spectators and have designated viewing areas.

View all Junior Driving Experience FAQs

View all Gift Voucher FAQs

Overview

Summer Special Vintage Bus and Steam Train Day Trip
Travel by vintage bus to the Ecclesbourne Valley Railway
Relax on the return steam train journey from Wirksworth to Duffield and back
Enjoy delicious drinks from the licensed bar on the train

What's Included

Travel by vintage bus to the Ecclesbourne Valley Railway
Enjoy a return steam train journey from Wirksworth to Duffield and back
Drinks can be purchased from the licensed bar on the train
Travel through the picturesque Derbyshire countryside for your one-hour and thirty-minute journey
Journey from the railway in the vintage bus to Matlock Bath
Enjoy some free time in Matlock Bath before heading back to your pick-up point aboard 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

Selected dates in July 2026, subject to availability
Due to popularity, it is recommended that you book well in advance to avoid disappointment

2026 Dates

26th July

Depart from your choice of the following Nottinghamshire locations

Departs between 09:00 and 09:30, returning for approximately 17:00
Sutton - Sutton-in-Ashfield, NG17
Annesley Woodhouse - Kirkby in Ashfield NG17
Kirkby - in Ashfield Kirkby in Ashfield NG17

Anything Else

Please note: In the event of a mechanical failure, we reserve the right to substitute the Steam Locomotive for a Heritage Diesel Locomotive.
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
In the unlikely event that minimum numbers are not reached, the trip may be postponed or cancelled