Experiences
A wide range of experiences are available, for a family day out or to celebrate a special occasion. There is also a wide range of general events such as steam galas, children's events, and themed weekends to explore.
- All
- Dining Experience
- Fish & Chips
- Drive a Train
- Murder Mystery
- Behind the Scenes Access
- Gin/Beer/Ale Train
- Curry Night
- Father Christmas Event
- All Dates
- Jul 2025
- Aug 2025
- Sep 2025
- Oct 2025
- Nov 2025
- Dec 2025
- Jan 2026
- Feb 2026
- Mar 2026
- Apr 2026
- May 2026
- Jun 2026
- Jul 2026
- Aug 2026
- Sep 2026
- Oct 2026
- Nov 2026
- Dec 2026
Fish & Chip Trains
A traditional favourite served at your seat aboard the North Norfolk Fryer!
The “Norfolk Fryer†steams out of Sheringham at 6.30pm on many Wednesdays and at 6.00pm on selected summer Fridays. Enjoy an evening out on the railway with Cod and Chips cooked the traditional Sheringham way in beef fat from one of Sheringham’s top chip shops! Gluten free and Vegetarian options are also available; please ring our Bookings office on 01263 820800 for further information. The trains runs from Sheringham to Holt and and back with the return journey taking approximately 90 minutes. Ticket includes travel, fish & chips and a locally-made tub of Ronaldo’s ice cream to finish. A licensed bar is also on board. Dining is very popular, so book early to avoid disappointment. ADVANCE BOOKING ESSENTIAL For further details: https://www.nnrailway.co.uk/portfolio-items/fish-chip-trains/
- Date
- 16th July 2025
- Event Type
- Dining Experience
- Event Type
- Fish & Chips
- Location
- Sheringham Station, Station Approach, Sheringham, Norfolk, NR26 8RA, GB
- Distance
- 0 away
Cream Tea on a Steam Train!
Relax and enjoy a traditional cream tea as you travel along the stunning coastal scenery!
Climb aboard a train of historic carriages hauled by one of our beautifully restored steam engines and enjoy a traditional afternoon Cream Tea served on the move. Relax, take in the scenery and savour delicious fruit scones, served with a generous portion of clotted cream, jam and pot of tea followed by a slice of freshly baked, homemade cake. Price includes travel and reserved seats aboard a steam train for the return journey from Sheringham to Holt and back. Trains usually depart from Sheringham station at 3.30pm and arrive back at approximately 4.40pm. ADVANCE BOOKING ESSENTIAL For further details: https://www.nnrailway.co.uk/portfolio-items/cream-tea-train/
- Date
- 17th July 2025
- Event Type
- Dining Experience
- Location
- Sheringham Station, Station Approach, Sheringham, Norfolk, NR26 8RA, GB
- Distance
- 0 away
Wealden Rambler Afternoon Tea
Now Booking for 2025 Wealden Rambler Afternoon Tea services!
The initial dates for 2025 for our beloved Wealden Rambler Afternoon Tea Services at The Bluebell Railway are now open for reservations! Join us for a delightful afternoon tea experience as you travel through the picturesque Sussex countryside. Book now to secure your place on this charming journey and enjoy a timeless tradition in a beautiful setting. The return trip to East Grinstead from Sheffield Park is approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.
- Date
- 17th July 2025
- Event Type
- Dining Experience
- Location
- Sheffield Park Station, Sheffield Park, Uckfield, East Sussex, TN22 3QL, GB
- Distance
- 0 away
Steam Driver Experience - Bronze
A half-day or evening with an experienced crew aboard the footplate!
Our bronze experience gives you a taste of driving and firing during two return journey over the full length of our picturesque line from Sheringham and Holt. Climb aboard a steam engine (on its own, without a train) and take the controls under the guidance of an experienced crew. You will alternate between driving and firing, spending 11 miles doing each and learning about the workings of the engine and the railway. The bronze experience is offered on several dates throughout the year usually starting at 9.45, 12.45 or 16.45. We are able to accommodate 2 participants on each session. Your experience begins at Sheringham with a welcoming drink and a slice of cake before participants join the driver and fireman on the footplate of the locomotive. At the end of the session each participant is awarded a certificate as a souvenir of the experience. ADVANCED BOOKING ESSENTIAL For further details: https://www.nnrailway.co.uk/portfolio-items/steam-driver-experience-day/
- Date
- 18th July 2025
- Event Type
- Drive a Train
- Location
- Sheringham Station, Station Approach, Sheringham, Norfolk, NR26 8RA, GB
- Distance
- 0 away
Fish and Chips Supper Trains
Step aboard the Wealden Rambler and prepare for an evening of delicious food, stunning scenery, and timeless charm.
The Fish & Chips Supper Trains combine the best of British tradition with the magic of steam travel, offering a truly unique dining experience. Relax in our beautifully restored heritage carriages as the gentle rhythm of the steam engine takes you on a journey through the picturesque Sussex countryside. As you soak in the views, enjoy a freshly cooked fish and chips supper served to your table, complete with all the classic trimmings. Whether you’re looking for a cosy evening with loved ones, a special celebration, or simply an excuse to indulge, the Wealden Rambler Fish & Chips Supper Trains promise a delightful combination of comfort, flavour, and nostalgia. Book your tickets now! https://www.bluebell-railway.com/special/fish-and-chips-supper-trains/
- Date
- 18th July 2025
- Event Type
- Dining Experience
- Event Type
- Fish & Chips
- Location
- Sheffield Park Station, Sheffield Park, Uckfield, East Sussex, TN22 3QL, GB
- Distance
- 0 away
Murder Mystery Evening
Step aboard for an evening of suspense and steam on the South Devon Railway's Murder Mystery Experience. Watch the drama unfold, uncover the clues, and enjoy a hot pasty on board this immersive heritage whodunnit.
All aboard for an evening of mystery, murder, and steam-powered intrigue on the South Devon Railway. In partnership with Murder by Appointment, the longest established murder mystery company in the West of England, this unique experience brings classic crime drama to life on board a heritage train. The evening begins at Buckfastleigh station from 18:30, with the train departing at 19:00 and returning by 22:00. As the train travels through the Devon countryside, professional actors will perform a thrilling murder mystery in your carriage. Watch the plot unfold, listen for clues, and question the suspects if you wish to try and solve the case. A freshly baked Devon pasty will be served to your seat before departure. Choose from steak, cheese and onion, or roasted vegetable (vegan) when booking. The on-train Buffet Car will also be open, serving a selection of hot, cold, and alcoholic drinks including local beers, ciders, and wine. Each Murder Mystery event features a different storyline, making it a great reason to return for more. Period dress is welcome, and a prize is offered for the best outfit, though the dress code is casual. Pre-booking is essential. The event is recommended for adults and children aged 12 and over. Seating is arranged in tables of four, and unbooked seats may be allocated to other parties.
- Date
- 18th July 2025
- Event Type
- Murder Mystery
- Location
- The Station, Dart Bridge Road, Buckfastleigh, Devon, TQ11 0DZ, GB
- Distance
- 0 away
Silver Drive a Steam Train Experience
Take control of a GWR steam locomotive in this hands on half day experience. Drive and fire over 14 miles, enjoy time on the footplate, and bring up to four guests to share the journey
Step onto the footplate and discover what it is really like to work a Great Western Railway steam engine. This half day session offers a focused, practical introduction to steam footplate work on the South Devon Railway. Choose a morning or afternoon session and book on at Buckfastleigh at either 0900 or 1245. You will receive a safety briefing and meet your footplate crew before heading out for two round trips along the line, 14 miles in total. There are four participants per session, with two people at a time on the engine, one driving and one firing, while the others travel with the guard and their guests in the train. You will rotate during the session to make sure everyone gets equal time in both roles. Each participant can bring up to four guests to travel in the carriages, giving them a front row seat to your time at the regulator and the shovel. Hot and cold drinks are provided on board for participants, and you will receive a personalised certificate to take home.
- Date
- 18th July 2025
- Location
- The Station, Dart Bridge Road, Buckfastleigh, Devon, TQ11 0DZ, GB
- Distance
- 0 away
Murder Mystery
Returning for 2024, themed Murder Mystery Nights! ​ Jump on board our Diesel* Hauled heritage train for a brand new Murder Mystery Adventure from Dreamstone Productions.
Your experience will be enhanced by enjoying freshly made fish and chips from a local supplier at your table during the journey while you work to solve the murder mystery. You can also pre-order drinks** to accompany your meal and to keep you going while you try to unravel the mystery onboard! Price: £47 per person, including your choice of fish & chips, sausage and chips or vegetarian option and chips. Drinks purchased separately. Your evening will include two trips between Dereham and Thuxton stations, departing at 6.30pm with your final arrival back at Dereham at approximately 8.40pm.
- Date
- 19th July 2025
- Event Type
- Fish & Chips
- Event Type
- Murder Mystery
- Location
- The Railway Station, Station Road, Dereham, Norfolk, NR19 1DF, GB
- Distance
- 0 away
Diesel Driver Experience with Class 37
On Saturdays 31 May, 19 July and 06 September 2025 you can get a feel of a first generation mainline diesel and experience the sheer power as you unleash its engine to tackle our steeply graded railway! You will get to pull a rake of 1950s passenger coaches when you drive a round trip of the line up to our boundary gate at Thame Junction and return, all made under guidance from our experienced driving instructor. We are confident you will have a great time!
Our friendly and knowledgeable train crew will look after all our new drivers and guide them throughout their Diesel Driver Experience. Your session will begin with a safety briefing, followed by a familiarisation session with the locomotive to show how it works and the operation of its controls. We'll be getting you used to starting and stopping the train safely along the seven-mile round trip of the line. You will actually get two trips in the cab, one as a driver and one as an observer. You can also bring along up to six guests for a free ride in the passenger coaches if arranged in advance – share the fun with family and/or friends! Your party are free to travel on the train on as many trips as you wish (five in all). In addition, you and your guests are welcome to stay for more trips of the line and please do discuss with Chris by email below. The price is £425 for each session. Refreshments Your Driving Experience course price includes refreshments for the driver and one guest. We will be delighted to provide refreshments for additional guests at our regular prices. The driver and special requests If you are buying this experience as a gift please let us know the name of the driver in the additional information box on the booking form. Our aim is to ensure all of our visitors to have a wonderful and memorable visit with us. If you have a special request then do let us know (email below) and we’ll see how we can accommodate your wishes. For further information and to book? You can book online below, or if you would like to find out more including diesel locomotive availability please email Chris, Experiences Coordinator, at driverexperience@chinnorrailway.co.uk THE PARTICIPANT MUST: 1. Be aged over 18 years 2. Be reasonably fit and in good health - fit enough to climb on and off the locomotive from ground level unaided 3. Wear old clothing that fully covers the arms and legs 4. Wear sturdy shoes or boots that protect the feet - trainers are not permitted 5. Not travel in the cab under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Please note that the Chinnor and Princes Risborough Railway reserves the right to reschedule any diesel footplate ride or refuse entry for whatever reason. The ride is for one adult participant aged 18 years or over and no other guests are allowed on the footplate.
- Date
- 19th July 2025
- Event Type
- Drive a Train
- Location
- Station Road, Chinnor, Oxfordshire, OX39 4ER, GB
- Distance
- 0 away
Bluebell Railway Yard Visits
Take a behind-the-scenes tour of The Bluebell Railway!
Join us for an exclusive Behind-the-Scenes Tour at The Bluebell Railway, offering a unique insight into the daily operations, restoration projects, and historic locomotives that keep our heritage railway alive. Your journey begins at Customer Services on Platform 1, where you’ll meet your guide, from there you’ll enjoy: A veranda overview of the yard from the Above Workshop Facility, with an introduction to our work and a great photo opportunity. A guided tour through the AWF facilities, SteamWorks!, and the Running Shed, including a chance to step onto the footplate of accessible locomotives and view static engines. A walk through our workshops, where you’ll see restoration projects in progress from a safe viewing route. A glimpse into the Pattern Room and Oil Store, before exploring locomotives under restoration such as Project 27, Standard Class 2, and the historic Adams Radial. A visit to Atlantic House, where you’ll see Normandy and other key restoration projects. A yard tour, including the pits, coaling facilities and our RO water plant project, plus a trip across the tracks to view the pumphouse. A look inside the Maintenance Shed before heading down the line for a photo opportunity from the head shunt buffers at the southern extremity of the railway. A visit to the Carriage Shed, where locomotives in storage are housed (subject to operational conditions). The tour concludes back at Platform 1, where you’ll have time for questions, a stop at the Bessemer Arms for refreshments, or a visit to the shop before departing.
- Date
- 19th July 2025
- Event Type
- Behind the Scenes Access
- Location
- Sheffield Park Station, Sheffield Park, Uckfield, East Sussex, TN22 3QL, GB
- Distance
- 0 away
Ploughman's Lunch Dining Train Experience
Enjoy a classic Ploughman's Lunch made with local West Country produce, served at your seat in a 1950s dining carriage as you steam through the scenic valley of the River Dart.
Step aboard the South Devon Limited Restaurant Car for a relaxed dining experience featuring a traditional Ploughman's Lunch. Travel in vintage style behind a heritage locomotive through the picturesque valley of the River Dart, with a generous West Country platter served at your seat. Departing Buckfastleigh at 12:10, the train returns at 13:30, with the experience concluding at 14:00. The lunch features the finest homemade treats and locally sourced produce, including items from the Dart Valley, followed by a freshly prepared dessert to round off your journey. Tickets include your train fare, first class upgrade, all courses of your meal, and unlimited travel on other South Devon Railway public services for the whole day. Drinks are available from the at-seat bar, offering a selection of wines, local ales, ciders, and soft drinks. The Ploughman's Lunch is available on selected dates throughout the year and offers a delicious way to enjoy the charm and scenery of this historic Great Western Railway branch line.
- Date
- 19th July 2025
- Event Type
- Dining Experience
- Location
- The Station, Dart Bridge Road, Buckfastleigh, Devon, TQ11 0DZ, GB
- Distance
- 0 away
Gold Drive a Steam Train Experience
Step onto the footplate for a full day of hands on steam action. Drive and fire a real GWR steam engine over 28 miles, tour Buckfastleigh Station, and bring up to six guests to enjoy the day alongside you.
Turn a dream into reality with our flagship steam locomotive experience. This full day package gives you the chance to take both the regulator and the shovel aboard a Great Western Railway steam engine on the South Devon Railway. Your day starts at Buckfastleigh Station at 0830 with a welcome briefing and a guided tour of the station, yard, and running shed, where your locomotive is being prepared. You will meet your crew and then head out onto the footplate for a day of unforgettable railway action. Each experience is shared with three other participants. Two people are on the footplate at a time, one driving, one firing, while the others travel in the train with their guests. You will rotate throughout the day, making four round trips in total and covering 28 miles, with equal time in both roles. You can bring up to six guests to share the day with you, travelling in the carriages and watching your turns on the engine. Hot and cold drinks are provided for participants, and you will receive a personalised certificate at the end of the day.
- Date
- 19th July 2025
- Event Type
- Drive a Train
- Location
- The Station, Dart Bridge Road, Buckfastleigh, Devon, TQ11 0DZ, GB
- Distance
- 0 away
The Watercress Belle
Enjoy a memorable evening of fine dining on board a steam-hauled train through the Hampshire countryside. This is a unique opportunity to savour a high-quality three course meal while travelling in vintage 1st Class style.
Step aboard The Watercress Belle for a refined dining experience that blends timeless railway charm with contemporary cuisine. Relax in the comfort of beautifully restored 1st Class carriages, complete with upholstered seating, original wooden panelling, table lamps, and white tablecloths. As the train steams through the Hampshire countryside, guests will enjoy a delicious three course meal prepared using fresh seasonal ingredients, alongside amuse-bouche and coffee or tea with mint chocolates to finish. A curated wine list is available for purchase, including locally sourced English sparkling wine. Your evening begins at Alresford Station, where the train departs and returns later in the evening. Although the dress code is smart, guests are welcome to add their own flair for the occasion. The Watercress Belle is a relaxed and elegant way to celebrate a special event or simply enjoy a unique evening out. Please note that seating is arranged at exclusive tables for two or shared tables for three or more, and guests must be aged 12 or over. Dietary requirements can be accommodated if notified at the time of booking.
- Date
- 19th July 2025
- Event Type
- Dining Experience
- Location
- Alresford Station, Station Road, ALRESFORD, SO24 9JG, GB
- Distance
- 0 away
The Real Ale Train (RAT)
Climb aboard the Real Ale Train for a lively evening of local ales served from the bar car as you travel by heritage train through the Hampshire countryside. Enjoy great beer, hot food and a relaxed atmosphere on board.
Affectionately known as the RAT, the Real Ale Train is a firm favourite for ale lovers and railway fans alike. Step into a heritage carriage and enjoy a rolling pub on rails, with a selection of real ales from local breweries served at the on-board bar. Every ticket purchased in advance includes a free pint voucher, and additional drinks and food are available throughout the evening. Soft drinks and other alcoholic options are also offered, with generous discounts when ordering in advance. The evening begins with departure from Alton Station, completing two round trips along the line before returning in time for onward mainline connections. There are themed evenings throughout the year, including beer festivals, pie and ale nights, and even a Halloween special. For groups, compartments are available for up to six people, each with their own free pint vouchers. Whether you're a dedicated ale enthusiast or simply looking for a memorable night out, the RAT delivers a friendly, sociable experience in a unique setting.
- Date
- 19th July 2025
- Event Type
- Gin/Beer/Ale Train
- Location
- Alresford Station, Station Road, ALRESFORD, SO24 9JG, GB
- Distance
- 0 away
First Class Afternoon Tea
Relax in style with a traditional afternoon tea served in the comfort of a restored first-class carriage. Enjoy a unique dining experience while travelling along the heritage line.
Step aboard and indulge in a classic afternoon treat with a difference. The Great Central First Class Afternoon Tea offers a delicious spread of handcrafted finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with jam and clotted cream, and a tempting selection of cakes. All of this is served with a pot of English tea as you travel through the Leicestershire countryside in a beautifully restored first-class carriage. This is a chance to slow down and enjoy a touch of vintage luxury, perfect for a special outing or a memorable gift. The service is delivered with our signature warm welcome, and the setting evokes the golden age of railway travel. Whether you are marking an occasion or simply enjoying time with family or friends, this experience promises a relaxed and indulgent afternoon.
- Date
- 19th July 2025
- Event Type
- Dining Experience
- Location
- Great Central Road, Loughborough, LE11 1RW, GB
- Distance
- 0 away
Steam Locomotive Driver Experience (Bronze)
Take the controls of a real steam locomotive and experience the power and thrill of driving it along Britain's only double-track main line heritage railway. An unforgettable hands-on day for anyone with a love of steam.
This is your chance to step into the boots of a steam locomotive driver and live the dream. Under expert guidance, you will take the controls for an eight-mile journey along the Great Central Railway, then ride the footplate for a further eight miles. The day begins with a welcome briefing and film introduction, followed by a shared driving session with one other participant. You will also enjoy a guided tour of the locomotive works and signal box, and lunch is included for both you and your guest. The experience includes a runabout ticket for passenger services for the rest of the day, a commemorative certificate, and 12 months membership of the Friends of the Great Central Mainline. With a full day immersed in railway heritage, this makes an ideal gift or personal milestone. No previous experience is needed - just a sense of adventure and a love of steam.
- Dates
- 19th July 2025 - 20th July 2025
- Event Type
- Drive a Train
- Location
- Great Central Road, Loughborough, LE11 1RW, GB
- Distance
- 0 away
Sunday Lunch Dining Train Experience
Enjoy a traditional three-course Sunday Lunch served in a beautifully restored British Railways dining carriage, as you travel by steam through the scenic valley of the River Dart.
Step aboard the South Devon Limited Restaurant Car for a unique Sunday Lunch experience, combining heritage steam travel with the best of West Country hospitality. Your journey departs Buckfastleigh at 12:10, with a freshly prepared three-course meal served at your seat as you steam through the beautiful valley of the River Dart. The train returns at 13:30, with the experience concluding at 14:00. The menu features the finest local ingredients, with gluten-free and vegan options available. Choices are selected when booking to ensure a relaxed dining experience on the day. Tickets include your train fare, first class upgrade, all three courses, and unlimited travel on other South Devon Railway public services for the whole day of your visit. Drinks are available from the at-seat bar, offering wines, local ales, ciders, and soft drinks. Sunday Lunch is available on selected Sundays from May to July and from September to November. It’s the perfect way to unwind and indulge while enjoying the timeless charm of heritage railway travel.
- Date
- 20th July 2025
- Event Type
- Dining Experience
- Location
- The Station, Dart Bridge Road, Buckfastleigh, Devon, TQ11 0DZ, GB
- Distance
- 0 away
All Day Rover and Classic Cream Tea
Our combined All-Day Rover Ticket and Classic Cream Tea offer is the perfect opportunity for a relaxing full or half-day out on Sundays 14, 28 May; 11 June, 09 July, 13 August 2023. You can travel on all train services throughout the day (or on as many as you choose!) and also enjoy your choice of a traditional Cream Tea served at your reserved seats in the Train Restaurant - which departs from Chinnor station at 15.45 hours.
Our volunteer stewards will be delighted to welcome you onboard the Train Restaurant and serve your Classic Cream Tea together with your choice of tea / coffee, or soft drink. A selection of wines can also be served at an additional charge. Sit back, relax and enjoy your day - watch the steam lazily curl past your window or hear the vintage diesel growl, as the lovely views gradually open out to reveal the Vale of Aylesbury and Whiteleaf Cross in the distance. TICKETS & PRICE: All-Day Rover Ticket and Classic Cream Tea £25 per person - minimum of 2-persons per table. Seat reservations for the Train Restaurant are included on the 15.45 departure from Chinnor. Passengers are seated at tables of 2, 3 or 4 persons. No seat reservations are required on any other steam or diesel services and ample seating is provided throughout the day. Menu: Two Large Scones with accompanied Jams and Cream Tea or Coffee service Further Details Tickets are limited and must be pre-booked - reservations will close when the Train Restaurant tables are full, or on the previous Thursday at 18.00 hours. No further discounts or concessions are available. Sorry, we are unable to provide for any other special dietary needs. Wheelchair space is not available in the Train Restaurant - for information please call 07979 055366 (10.00 - 16.00 hours). Dogs - sorry only Assistance Dogs are allowed in the Train Restaurant. If you are looking for something more in the local area please see the What to see and do section. We look forward to seeing you soon and thank you for your support.
- Date
- 20th July 2025
- Event Type
- Dining Experience
- Location
- Station Road, Chinnor, Oxfordshire, OX39 4ER, GB
- Distance
- 0 away
Cream Tea on a Steam Train!
Relax and enjoy a traditional cream tea as you travel along the stunning coastal scenery!
Climb aboard a train of historic carriages hauled by one of our beautifully restored steam engines and enjoy a traditional afternoon Cream Tea served on the move. Relax, take in the scenery and savour delicious fruit scones, served with a generous portion of clotted cream, jam and pot of tea followed by a slice of freshly baked, homemade cake. Price includes travel and reserved seats aboard a steam train for the return journey from Sheringham to Holt and back. Trains usually depart from Sheringham station at 3.30pm and arrive back at approximately 4.40pm. ADVANCE BOOKING ESSENTIAL For further details: https://www.nnrailway.co.uk/portfolio-items/cream-tea-train/
- Date
- 20th July 2025
- Event Type
- Dining Experience
- Location
- Sheringham Station, Station Approach, Sheringham, Norfolk, NR26 8RA, GB
- Distance
- 0 away
Footplate Ride
We’re offering you the chance to go on the footplate and join the crew as they take you on a full round trip of the line.
We’re offering you the chance to go on the footplate and join the crew as they take you on a full round trip of the line. You’ll get to watch what’s involved in operating one of our steam or diesel locomotives, as it hauls today’s passenger service. You’ll need to be physically fit and able to climb up into the cab and be able to stand for the duration of the journey, but you’ll be able to see first hand what it’s like for our volunteer crews. Please note, this is not a full Driver Experience and you wont be driving the train
- Date
- 20th July 2025
- Location
- Bitton Station, Bath Road, Bitton, Bristol, BS30 6HD, GB
- Distance
- 0 away