4 Mile Diesel Locomotive Driving Experience

The Experience

• Approx 2 Hours with 2 hours experience
• 3 UK Venues

Experience the power of Britain’s diesel railway heritage from the driver’s seat, taking control of an iconic locomotive on one of three heritage railways.

At the Chinnor & Princes Risborough Railway, you’ll drive a powerful Type 4 Class 47 locomotive. Producing around 2,500 bhp, these legendary engines have been a mainstay of Britain’s rail network since the 1960s, hauling both passenger and freight services nationwide. After a warm welcome and safety briefing from the experienced crew, you’ll climb aboard the cab and set off along the scenic line between Chinnor and Princes Risborough, experiencing the strength and presence of this heavyweight locomotive firsthand.

At the Pontypool and Blaenavon Railway, you’ll take the controls of a Type 3 Class 37 locomotive. Known for their distinctive sound and versatility, Class 37s have been a familiar sight across Britain for decades, working everything from passenger trains to heavy freight. With guidance from the railway’s knowledgeable crew, you’ll enjoy a hands-on driving experience through the dramatic landscapes of South Wales.

At the Watercress Line in Hampshire, you’ll take the controls of a classic Type 2 Class 31 locomotive. Introduced by British Rail from the late 1950s, these characterful diesels enjoyed a long and varied career on passenger, freight and engineering duties. Guided by an experienced crew, you’ll discover what it is like to handle this classic locomotive on one of Britain’s best-known heritage railways.

Whether you’re a lifelong railway enthusiast or simply looking for a truly memorable experience, choose between the Class 47 at Chinnor, Class 37 at Pontypool and Blaenavon or Class 31 at the Watercress Line and experience authentic British diesel heritage from the driver’s seat.

The Package

•⁠ ⁠Ex BR Class 31, 37 or 47 Diesel Locomotive driving experience
•⁠ ⁠Experience runs with 4 participants alongside the train crew
•⁠ ⁠Drive the train for 4 miles (up to 30 minutes at the controls)
•⁠ ⁠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

Restrictions

• Maximimum Age 90
• Minimum Age 18

Please read Terms and Conditions of this Adventure before continuing