Steam Driving Experience Course

To book, either select a time above and follow the online booking process, or call 01780 784444 between 10 am and 2:30 pm

The Package

Our starter package includes theory and practical driving of a steam locomotive. The course will be on a large locomotive without rolling stock, and consists of 1 hour's tuition and 1 hour on the footplate. During the hour on the footplate, 2 participants will take it in turns to drive the locomotive for a total distance of approximately 12 miles. 

• Welcome Briefing with Tea/Coffee for Driver and Guest
• Shared Drive and Fire of a Steam Locomotive (no coaches) - you will drive in one direction and fire in the other direction
• Lunch for the Driver
• Guided Tour of Loco Works
• Visit to Wansford Signal Box
• Presentation Certificate

Please note that our experiences are suitable for those aged 18 and above.

Dates of Operation: 5th and 26th July, 4th and 25th October

The Price: £575 per person (over 18s only)

Resident large locomotive: 

From time to time guest locomotives visit the NVR. When guest locomotives are available for driving experience days, there may be a supplement payable to drive them.

Unlike our normal services, advanced booking is essential - for further details please call 01780 784444.

NB: Starter courses are normally run on days when we have no scheduled passenger service operating. Guests are welcome to join participants to watch and take photographs, but they will not be able to ride on a train.

We sometimes get booking cancellations close to operating dates. If you might be available at short notice and would like to participate, please call our office, leave a telephone number where you can be contacted, and we'll get in touch if such a vacancy occurs.