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
- Murder Mystery
- Dining Experience
- Fish & Chips
- Drive a Train
- Behind the Scenes Access
- Gin/Beer/Ale Train
- Curry Night
- Father Christmas Event
- All Dates
- 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
Murder Mystery Evening - Murder leads to Murder!
Step aboard for a thrilling evening of drama and suspense as a murder unfolds during your journey through the Cornish countryside. Watch the story play out, follow the clues, and see if you can solve the mystery before the night ends.
Join us for an unforgettable night of intrigue at Bodmin Railway, where a peaceful evening takes a dark turn. What begins as a relaxed fundraising event with local VIPs is quickly thrown into chaos when two unexpected guests arrive. A body is discovered, secrets are exposed, and everyone becomes a suspect. Led by the acclaimed Murder By Appointment team, this live-action mystery will keep you guessing at every twist and turn. Your evening begins with a welcome drink and a delicious award-winning pasty from Adam's Pasties. As the story unfolds on the platform and continues aboard a heritage steam train, you will watch for clues, interrogate the cast, and try to piece together the truth. It is an immersive experience combining classic rail travel with gripping theatre, perfect for groups, families, and amateur sleuths alike.
- Date
- 19th August 2025
- Event Type
- Murder Mystery
- Location
- Bodmin General Station, Harleigh Road, Bodmin, Cornwall, PL31 1AQ, GB
- Distance
- 0 away
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
- 20th August 2025
- Event Type
- Dining Experience
- Event Type
- Fish & Chips
- Location
- Sheringham Station, Station Approach, Sheringham, Norfolk, NR26 8RA, GB
- Distance
- 0 away
All-Day Rover Tickets with Optional Boxed Cream Teas
All-Day Rover Ticket and Optional Boxed Cream Tea served at reserved seats is the perfect opportunity for travelling together on a relaxing full or half-day out
You can travel on all train services throughout the day (or on as many as you choose!) and also enjoy a Boxed Cream Tea served at your reserved seats on the train departing from Chinnor station at 10.45, 13.10 or 15.45 hours. Our volunteer stewards will be delighted to welcome you onboard and serve your Boxed Cream Tea together with your choice of tea / coffee, or soft drink. 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 as per usual prices for the day, plus £7.50 for each Boxed Cream Tea ordered. Seat reservations are included on your choice of the 10.45, 13.10 or 15.45 departure from Chinnor. No seat reservations are required on any other steam or diesel services and ample seating is provided throughout the day. Menu: One Large Scone with accompanied Jam and Cream in a Box! 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
- 21st August 2025
- Event Type
- Dining Experience
- Location
- Station Road, Chinnor, Oxfordshire, OX39 4ER, 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
- 22nd August 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 - Murder leads to Murder!
Step aboard for a thrilling evening of drama and suspense as a murder unfolds during your journey through the Cornish countryside. Watch the story play out, follow the clues, and see if you can solve the mystery before the night ends.
Join us for an unforgettable night of intrigue at Bodmin Railway, where a peaceful evening takes a dark turn. What begins as a relaxed fundraising event with local VIPs is quickly thrown into chaos when two unexpected guests arrive. A body is discovered, secrets are exposed, and everyone becomes a suspect. Led by the acclaimed Murder By Appointment team, this live-action mystery will keep you guessing at every twist and turn. Your evening begins with a welcome drink and a delicious award-winning pasty from Adam's Pasties. As the story unfolds on the platform and continues aboard a heritage steam train, you will watch for clues, interrogate the cast, and try to piece together the truth. It is an immersive experience combining classic rail travel with gripping theatre, perfect for groups, families, and amateur sleuths alike.
- Date
- 22nd August 2025
- Event Type
- Murder Mystery
- Location
- Bodmin General Station, Harleigh Road, Bodmin, Cornwall, PL31 1AQ, 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
- 22nd August 2025 - 24th August 2025
- Event Type
- Drive a Train
- Location
- Great Central Road, Loughborough, LE11 1RW, GB
- Distance
- 0 away
Steam Locomotive Driver Experience (Silver)
Take your footplate adventure further with an extended driving experience at the controls of a steam train with carriages. Twice the distance of the Bronze, this is the ultimate day for any railway enthusiast.
The Silver Edition of our Steam Locomotive Driver Experience offers an even deeper dive into the world of steam. You will drive a steam locomotive hauling coaches for a full 16-mile journey along the Great Central Railway and ride the footplate for another 16 miles, sharing the day with one other participant. It is a rare opportunity to take charge of a working train on Britain’s only double-track main line heritage railway. Your day begins with a welcome briefing and introductory film, followed by the main footplate experience. Lunch is included for you and two guests, and you will enjoy a guided tour of the locomotive works and a visit to the Loughborough signal box. A presentation certificate and 12-month membership of the Friends of the Great Central Mainline are included, along with runabout tickets for the rest of the day. Whether for yourself or as an unforgettable gift, this is a real taste of the steam age brought to life.
- Date
- 22nd August 2025
- Event Type
- Drive a Train
- Location
- Great Central Road, Loughborough, LE11 1RW, GB
- Distance
- 0 away
Fish & Chips Lunch
Enjoy a classic meal of freshly battered cod and chips, served on our dining train.
Take your seat in our first-class dining carriage to enjoy a British classic of hearty fish, chips, and mushy peas from our local chippy, served onboard one of our heritage trains. Combining a family favourite with a delightful journey along our railway line, this dining experience promises a lunchtime you won’t forget in a hurry. To finish, indulge in a delicious dessert, and enjoy a drink from our onboard bar, which will be open throughout the trip. Please note: Due to the nature of this dining train, we are unable to accommodate any special dietary requirements.
- Date
- 23rd August 2025
- Event Type
- Fish & Chips
- Location
- Bitton Station, Bath Road, Bitton, Bristol, BS30 6HD, GB
- Distance
- 0 away
Footplate Visit
Step onto the footplate of one of our historic locomotives and see the railway from the driver’s perspective.
Climb aboard "Overlord", a diesel shunting locomotive, for a rare opportunity to view the railway from the driver’s side. You’ll be able to explore the cab, meet the locomotive team, and see the controls up close. The visit also includes time in the loco shed, where you can watch restoration work in progress and talk to the volunteers who look after our fleet.
- Dates
- 23rd August 2025 - 25th August 2025
- Event Type
- Behind the Scenes Access
- Location
- Chatham Historic Dockyard, Main Gate Road, Chatham, Kent, ME4 4TE, GB
- Distance
- 0 away
Golden Arrow Evening Dining
Evening silver service dining aboard the Bluebell Railway’s Golden Arrow train.
Bluebell Railway’s Golden Arrow train is the perfect setting for a special meal with friends or an intimate evening for two. With luxurious Pullman Cars Christine, Fingall, and Car 54, the train recreates the fabulous Golden Arrow which once linked London and Paris with the style and panache which made it one of the most glamorous and famous trains in the world. On board you will enjoy fine food and wine served to the standards of yesteryear. This premier dining service includes a three-course meal and travel on a steam-hauled train through the beautiful countryside of the Sussex Weald to East Grinstead. Your journey will last approximately 3 1/2 hours. A cup of tea or coffee at the end of your meal is included in the cost, and all other drinks may be purchased and paid for on the train. All Golden Arrow services begin and end at Sheffield Park Station and the Golden Arrow Dining will depart at 7:00 selected Saturday evenings. Browse the menu and book your tickets here: https://www.bluebell-railway.com/special/golden-arrow-evening-dining-2025/
- Date
- 23rd August 2025
- Event Type
- Dining Experience
- Location
- Sheffield Park Station, Sheffield Park, Uckfield, East Sussex, TN22 3QL, 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
- 23rd August 2025
- Event Type
- Dining Experience
- Location
- Sheffield Park Station, Sheffield Park, Uckfield, East Sussex, TN22 3QL, GB
- Distance
- 0 away
Driver Taster Experience
Take the controls of one of our historic steam locomotives and enjoy a short drive along Anchor Wharf under expert guidance.
Step onto the footplate and experience the sights, sounds, and heat of a working steam engine with our popular Driver for a Tenner experience. Under the guidance of our friendly, knowledgeable crew, you'll learn the basics of driving and controlling the locomotive as you take it for a run along the historic Anchor Wharf. This short but unforgettable taster session gives you the chance to feel the power of steam for yourself - perfect for anyone who has ever dreamed of being an engine driver. Over 18s only; additional fee applies.
- Dates
- 23rd August 2025 - 25th August 2025
- Event Type
- Drive a Train
- Location
- Chatham Historic Dockyard, Main Gate Road, Chatham, Kent, ME4 4TE, GB
- Distance
- 0 away
Hook - A - Duck
Relive your childhood at the fair and try your luck Hooking a Duck, with a twist.
Try your luck and Hook your favourite Duck in our Dockyard twist of this classic fairground game. Using naval semaphore flags, you instruct our crews to hook your duck with our 1940s Steam Crane!
- Dates
- 23rd August 2025 - 25th August 2025
- Location
- Chatham Historic Dockyard, Main Gate Road, Chatham, Kent, ME4 4TE, 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
- 23rd August 2025
- Event Type
- Dining Experience
- Location
- Great Central Road, Loughborough, LE11 1RW, GB
- Distance
- 0 away
Bitton Belle
Savour a classic two-course roast dinner with all the trimmings.
Our premier Sunday lunch dining train. Boarding begins at 11:45, and our volunteer staff will serve a classic two-course roast dinner with all the trimmings at your table. A full bar service is available throughout the journey. The experience lasts for 2.5 hours, with passengers alighting at 14:15.
- Date
- 24th August 2025
- Event Type
- Dining Experience
- Location
- Bitton Station, Bath Road, Bitton, Bristol, BS30 6HD, GB
- Distance
- 0 away
Golden Arrow Luncheon
Luncheon silver service dining aboard the Bluebell Railway’s Golden Arrow train.
Bluebell Railway’s Golden Arrow train is the perfect setting for a special meal with friends or an intimate dinner for two. With luxurious Pullman Cars Christine, Fingall, and Car 54, the train recreates the fabulous Golden Arrow which once linked London and Paris with the style and panache which made it one of the most glamorous and famous trains in the world. On board you will enjoy fine food and wine served to the standards of yesteryear. This premier dining service includes a three-course meal and travel on a steam-hauled train through the beautiful countryside of the Sussex Weald to East Grinstead. Your journey will last approximately 3 1/2 hours. A cup of tea or coffee at the end of your meal is included in the cost, and all other drinks may be purchased and paid for on the train. All Golden Arrow services begin and end at Sheffield Park Station and the Golden Arrow Luncheon will begin at 12:25 on selected Sunday afternoons. Browse the menu and book your tickets here: https://www.bluebell-railway.com/special/golden-arrow-luncheon-2025/
- Date
- 24th August 2025
- Event Type
- Dining Experience
- Location
- Sheffield Park Station, Sheffield Park, Uckfield, East Sussex, TN22 3QL, GB
- Distance
- 0 away
Afternoon High Tea
Indulge in a quintessentially British tradition and enjoy a delightful afternoon tea while travelling through the picturesque Avon Valley.
Treat yourself to a quintessentially British tradition and enjoy afternoon tea as you journey through the scenic Avon Valley. You’ll be welcomed onboard with a glass of locally produced Three Choirs sparkling wine, followed by a delightful selection of freshly made sandwiches, warm scones with jam and cream, and an array of dainty cakes. Your experience is perfectly complemented by your choice of Tregothnan teas or freshly brewed coffee.
- Date
- 25th August 2025
- Event Type
- Dining Experience
- Location
- Bitton Station, Bath Road, Bitton, Bristol, BS30 6HD, GB
- Distance
- 0 away
Golden Arrow Breakfast
Silver service breakfast dining aboard the Bluebell Railway’s Golden Arrow train.
The Bluebell Railway’s Golden Arrow Breakfast train is the perfect setting for a special meal with friends and family. Step aboard luxurious Pullman cars Christine, Fingall, and Car 54, which recreate the glamour of the iconic Golden Arrow, once linking London and Paris with unparalleled style and panache. On board, you’ll enjoy fine food and drinks served to the high standards of yesteryear. ‘Christine’ and ‘Fingall’ evoke the elegance of the 1920s and ‘30s with their unique wooden wall panel marquetry and plush seating. ‘Pullman Car 54’, built in 1923 as a Kitchen Third by Claytons and later rebuilt in 1937 as a Parlour Brake, is a historic vehicle, one of the first three ‘K’-type Pullmans. Returning to service in 2024 after restoration at our very own Carriage and Wagon Department to accommodate wheelchair passengers, it’s the first of its kind. This premier dining service includes a full breakfast selection, served while you travel on a steam-hauled train through the stunning countryside of the Sussex Weald to East Grinstead. The journey lasts approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes. A selection of drinks is included in the cost, and other drinks can be purchased on board. Please note that no alcohol will be available on this service. All Golden Arrow Breakfast services begin and end at Sheffield Park Station, with departures at 9:15 on selected Mondays.
- Date
- 25th August 2025
- Event Type
- Dining Experience
- Location
- Sheffield Park Station, Sheffield Park, Uckfield, East Sussex, TN22 3QL, GB
- Distance
- 0 away
Murder Mystery Evening - Murder leads to Murder!
Step aboard for a thrilling evening of drama and suspense as a murder unfolds during your journey through the Cornish countryside. Watch the story play out, follow the clues, and see if you can solve the mystery before the night ends.
Join us for an unforgettable night of intrigue at Bodmin Railway, where a peaceful evening takes a dark turn. What begins as a relaxed fundraising event with local VIPs is quickly thrown into chaos when two unexpected guests arrive. A body is discovered, secrets are exposed, and everyone becomes a suspect. Led by the acclaimed Murder By Appointment team, this live-action mystery will keep you guessing at every twist and turn. Your evening begins with a welcome drink and a delicious award-winning pasty from Adam's Pasties. As the story unfolds on the platform and continues aboard a heritage steam train, you will watch for clues, interrogate the cast, and try to piece together the truth. It is an immersive experience combining classic rail travel with gripping theatre, perfect for groups, families, and amateur sleuths alike.
- Date
- 26th August 2025
- Event Type
- Murder Mystery
- Location
- Bodmin General Station, Harleigh Road, Bodmin, Cornwall, PL31 1AQ, GB
- Distance
- 0 away
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
- 27th August 2025
- Event Type
- Dining Experience
- Event Type
- Fish & Chips
- Location
- Sheringham Station, Station Approach, Sheringham, Norfolk, NR26 8RA, GB
- Distance
- 0 away