Experience the thrill of tank driving near Newcastle in a fun, muddy, and unforgettable taster session for small shared groups. Locations are rotated to protect the terrain, but all are within around 40 minutes of Newcastle and easy to reach. You will be behind the controls of an FV432 Armoured Fighting Vehicle, a 15-tonne tracked tank that’s all levers, brakes and raw power, with no steering assistance. Expect a real test of strength and control as you take it across rugged Northumbrian ground. What makes this experience unique is the dual-tank setup. You will start with a briefing inside a second FV432, getting hands-on with the controls before moving into the driver’s seat for the real thing. Climbing in is an adventure too, whether through the crew compartment or roof hatch. Once underway, your instructor will be in the commander’s seat while your group rotates between driving and riding as passengers in the crew compartment. Afterwards, enjoy a behind-the-scenes look at the workshop, home to an impressive collection of military vehicles, including rare pieces like an M2 Bridging Ferry, the only one of its kind in the North East. Run by a passionate team who love all things military and mechanical, this is a full-throttle day of mud, machines and serious fun.
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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Overview
- Drive an ex-Army FV432 AFV (Armoured Fighting Vehicle)
- Tackle some of the most exciting tank terrain in the UK
- Approximately 20 minutes at the controls
- Opportunity to tour the centre's vehicle collection, which includes a Saracen 6x6 APC, M2 Bridging Ferry, Stalwart, and Chieftain Engineer
- This voucher is valid for One person
What's Included
- Drive an ex-Army FV432 AFV (Armoured Fighting Vehicle)
- Introductory talk, learning about the history of the vehicle and how it works
- Familiarisation session lasting around 15 minutes, your instructor will explain the use and function of the steering levers and controls
- Tackle some of the most exciting tank terrain in the UK
- Approximately 20 minutes at the controls
- When not driving, you will experience the ride of a soldier in the crew compartment
- Opportunity to tour the centre's vehicle collection, which includes a Saracen 6x6 APC, M2 Bridging Ferry, Stalwart, and Chieftain Engineer
- Allow approximately one and a half hours on site for this experience
- You may form part of a small group
Suitable For
- Minimum age 15
- Under 18s must be accompanied by a participating or spectating adult
- Good upper body strength is required to operate the (non-power-assisted) steering levers
- Participants with a chest size larger than 56" may have difficulty accessing these vehicles
- Not suitable if you have back, neck or heart problems or during pregnancy
- Access to the driving compartment requires a degree of agility
Availability
- This experience usually takes place once a month on a weekend date throughout the year
- Weekdays may be requested
- Dates and session times are subject to availability and weather conditions
Location:
- Tank driving takes place at several different sites, all located within a 40-minute drive from Newcastle
- Full details of the specific site for your experience will be provided when booking your date
Restrictions
Minimum Age: 15 years
This product is not eligible for promotional discount codes.
Anything Else
- Experiences require a minimum of 2 participants to take place.
- If the minimum numbers are not being reached, your date will be rescheduled
- No facilities are available on site, although there is a café nearby
- Participants must present a printed voucher. The venue cannot accept screenshots or digital copies
- Not suitable for spectators as the training area is remote from our base
- Riders can participate on the day for £40 per person (£25 for participants aged 9–15)
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
