Courses

Standard Course

The perfect opportunity for any steam lover to have a go at driving a steam engine! With an emphasis on practical instruction and tuition, there is no ‘classroom’ session and all theoretical matters are dealt with as they arise. No prior knowledge of steam locomotives is required, just an enthusiasm to learn and appreciate the engineering and power of steam engines! Up to six family members are invited for a ride on the train in the afternoon with the participant driving. A certificate is awarded on completion of the course.

The course costs £249 with a 10% discount for two people when booking together. Includes lunch and refreshments.

9.30 am Introduction to your instructor, inspection of your locomotive and explanation of the controls. Assist in the preparation of your locomotive including watering, steam raising and lubrication. Instruction on safety procedures and signalling systems.

10:30 am Attach coaches and start light movements off the main line to gain familiarity with the controls before proceeding to the main line. You will complete a number of circuits of the line accompanied by an instructor travelling immediately behind you in the support coach.

12:30 pm Lunch and review of the morning session.

Advanced Course

If you have completed our Standard Footplate Experience Course, then why not give the Advanced course a go! Our Advanced Course is run on a one-to-one basis to ensure you receive maximum tuition from one of our expert instructors. Instead of driving ‘Talos’, you will be driving ‘Aurora’, the newest engine to the fleet!*

You will be running varied routes around the railway, obeying signals as well as a longer train. Up to six family members are invited for a ride on the train in the afternoon. A certificate is awarded on completion of the course.

The course costs £299 including lunch and refreshments.

*Subject to availability.

9.00 am Introduction to your instructor and inspection of your locomotive. Assist your instructor in steaming the locomotive and ensuring all checks are complete before leaving the yard.

10.30 am Attach coaches and an introduction/refresh of the controls before progressing onto the main line. You will have a longer train and be obeying signals to follow varied routes around the railway.

12.30 pm Lunch and review of the morning session.