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
- Murder Mystery
- Drive a Train
- Behind the Scenes Access
- Curry Night
- Gin/Beer/Ale Train
- Father Christmas Event
- All Dates
- Feb 2026
- Mar 2026
- Apr 2026
- May 2026
- Jun 2026
- Jul 2026
- Aug 2026
- Sep 2026
- Oct 2026
- Nov 2026
- Dec 2026
- Jan 2027
- Feb 2027
- Mar 2027
- Apr 2027
- May 2027
- Jun 2027
- Jul 2027
- Aug 2027
- Sep 2027
- Oct 2027
- Nov 2027
- Dec 2027
Golden Arrow Evening Dining
Luxurious Pullman dining on a steam-hauled train through the Sussex countryside, inspired by one of the world’s most glamorous expresses.
Step aboard the Bluebell Railway’s Golden Arrow and enjoy refined silver-service dining in beautifully restored Pullman cars. With elegant interiors, table lamps and first-class hospitality, this is a premium experience that evokes the golden age of travel. A freshly prepared three-course meal is served at your seat as the train steams through the Wealden landscape, with fine wines and other drinks available from the bar. It is the perfect setting for a celebration, a special evening for two or a memorable meal with friends. Advance booking is essential. Book via our website.
- Date
- 10th October 2026
- Event Type
- Dining Experience
- Location
- Sheffield Park Station, Sheffield Park, Uckfield, East Sussex, TN22 3QL, 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
- 11th October 2026
- Event Type
- Dining Experience
- Location
- Station Road, Chinnor, Oxfordshire, OX39 4ER, GB
- Distance
- 0 away
Golden Arrow Luncheon
Enjoy a refined three-course lunch aboard a beautifully restored Pullman dining train.
Relax into the elegance of the Bluebell Railway’s Golden Arrow, a luxurious Pullman dining train inspired by the glamour of the historic express that once linked London and Paris. Settle into plush seating and admire polished wood interiors as a freshly prepared lunch is served at your table, accompanied by attentive hospitality and the evocative atmosphere of steam travel. Your journey takes you through the scenic Sussex Weald, offering classic countryside views as you enjoy fine food in comfort and style. It is an ideal experience for celebrations, special occasions or simply treating yourself to something memorable. Advance booking is essential. Book via our website.
- Date
- 11th October 2026
- Event Type
- Dining Experience
- Location
- Sheffield Park Station, Sheffield Park, Uckfield, East Sussex, TN22 3QL, GB
- Distance
- 0 away
One Day Steam Locomotive Driver Experience
We are able to offer a one day course, designed to get you behind the controls of one of our unique narrow gauge steam locomotives.
A fantastic present to give someone for a special occasion, or maybe it's just an opportunity for you to indulge in a childhood dream! • Preparation of steam locomotive for service • Driving a steam locomotive hauling passenger carriages - 9 miles • Refreshments (including a cooked lunch) • Price £275.00 Please note this experience is available for suitably fit people aged 18 years and over only.
- Date
- 17th October 2026
- Event Type
- Drive a Train
- Location
- Aylsham Station, Norwich Road, Aylsham, Norfolk, NR11 6BW, 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
- 18th October 2026
- Event Type
- Dining Experience
- Location
- Station Road, Chinnor, Oxfordshire, OX39 4ER, GB
- Distance
- 0 away
Joyce Light Engine Experience
Drive the Sentinel loco 7109 Joyce light engine
Driving experience with Sentinel locomotive 7109 Joyce at Princes Risborough
- Date
- 18th October 2026
- Event Type
- Drive a Train
- Location
- Station Road, Chinnor, Oxfordshire, OX39 4ER, GB
- Distance
- 0 away
Sussex Belle Fish & Chips Pullman
Board the Sussex Belle for an evening of gourmet fish and chips, travelling in a Pullman Car that harks back to the heyday of train travel.
Sit back in the comfort of a beautifully restored 1920s Pullman Car, with its marquetry panels and polished brasswork, as the vintage steam locomotive takes you on a journey through the Sussex Weald to East Grinstead. As the Sussex countryside passes by your window, enjoy exquisitely prepared fish and chips, followed by dessert and tea or coffee, all served at your table. Why not arrive early and enjoy a drink in the Bessemer Arms bar, browse the Bluebell Shop for a souvenir or gift, or look around SteamWorks, our interactive steam adventure exhibition. You can also order a range of alcoholic and soft drinks to be waiting at your table when you board. Drinks can be purchased during your journey as well. Whether you are marking a special occasion, catching up with friends or family, or simply treating yourself to a special evening out, the Sussex Belle offers an evening of fine food set against the backdrop of yesteryear train travel.
- Date
- 22nd October 2026
- Event Type
- Dining Experience
- Event Type
- Fish & Chips
- 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.
- Dates
- 23rd October 2026 - 24th October 2026
- Event Type
- Dining Experience
- Location
- Sheffield Park Station, Sheffield Park, Uckfield, East Sussex, TN22 3QL, GB
- Distance
- 0 away
Golden Arrow Luncheon
Enjoy a refined three-course lunch aboard a beautifully restored Pullman dining train.
Relax into the elegance of the Bluebell Railway’s Golden Arrow, a luxurious Pullman dining train inspired by the glamour of the historic express that once linked London and Paris. Settle into plush seating and admire polished wood interiors as a freshly prepared lunch is served at your table, accompanied by attentive hospitality and the evocative atmosphere of steam travel. Your journey takes you through the scenic Sussex Weald, offering classic countryside views as you enjoy fine food in comfort and style. It is an ideal experience for celebrations, special occasions or simply treating yourself to something memorable. Advance booking is essential. Book via our website.
- Date
- 25th October 2026
- Event Type
- Dining Experience
- Location
- Sheffield Park Station, Sheffield Park, Uckfield, East Sussex, TN22 3QL, GB
- Distance
- 0 away
Sussex Belle Fish & Chips Pullman
Board the Sussex Belle for an evening of gourmet fish and chips, travelling in a Pullman Car that harks back to the heyday of train travel.
Sit back in the comfort of a beautifully restored 1920s Pullman Car, with its marquetry panels and polished brasswork, as the vintage steam locomotive takes you on a journey through the Sussex Weald to East Grinstead. As the Sussex countryside passes by your window, enjoy exquisitely prepared fish and chips, followed by dessert and tea or coffee, all served at your table. Why not arrive early and enjoy a drink in the Bessemer Arms bar, browse the Bluebell Shop for a souvenir or gift, or look around SteamWorks, our interactive steam adventure exhibition. You can also order a range of alcoholic and soft drinks to be waiting at your table when you board. Drinks can be purchased during your journey as well. Whether you are marking a special occasion, catching up with friends or family, or simply treating yourself to a special evening out, the Sussex Belle offers an evening of fine food set against the backdrop of yesteryear train travel.
- Date
- 30th October 2026
- Event Type
- Dining Experience
- Event Type
- Fish & Chips
- Location
- Sheffield Park Station, Sheffield Park, Uckfield, East Sussex, TN22 3QL, GB
- Distance
- 0 away
Golden Arrow Luncheon
Enjoy a refined three-course lunch aboard a beautifully restored Pullman dining train.
Relax into the elegance of the Bluebell Railway’s Golden Arrow, a luxurious Pullman dining train inspired by the glamour of the historic express that once linked London and Paris. Settle into plush seating and admire polished wood interiors as a freshly prepared lunch is served at your table, accompanied by attentive hospitality and the evocative atmosphere of steam travel. Your journey takes you through the scenic Sussex Weald, offering classic countryside views as you enjoy fine food in comfort and style. It is an ideal experience for celebrations, special occasions or simply treating yourself to something memorable. Advance booking is essential. Book via our website.
- Dates
- 31st October 2026 - 1st November 2026
- Event Type
- Dining Experience
- Location
- Sheffield Park Station, Sheffield Park, Uckfield, East Sussex, TN22 3QL, GB
- Distance
- 0 away
Steam Footplate Tasters
Experience the thrill and nostalgia of the golden age of steam on our exclusive Footplate Taster Day at the Bluebell Railway. Step onto the footplate and feel the power of a working steam locomotive.
Step into the boots of a steam engine driver or fireman and join our experienced crew for an unforgettable hands-on session aboard one of our heritage locomotives. This immersive experience lets you enjoy the sights, sounds and sensations of working on the footplate while learning the basic skills of steam locomotive operation. Whether you are a lifelong rail enthusiast or simply seeking something extraordinary, this experience offers a unique chance to drive and fire a genuine steam locomotive. Under expert supervision, you will handle the controls of either 72 Fenchurch or SECR O1 65, subject to availability. A perfect introduction to steam for anyone looking to get closer to the action.
- Date
- 4th November 2026
- Event Type
- Drive a Train
- Location
- Sheffield Park Station, Sheffield Park, Uckfield, East Sussex, TN22 3QL, GB
- Distance
- 0 away
Steam Footplate Tasters
Experience the thrill and nostalgia of the golden age of steam on our exclusive Footplate Taster Day at the Bluebell Railway. Step onto the footplate and feel the power of a working steam locomotive.
Step into the boots of a steam engine driver or fireman and join our experienced crew for an unforgettable hands-on session aboard one of our heritage locomotives. This immersive experience lets you enjoy the sights, sounds and sensations of working on the footplate while learning the basic skills of steam locomotive operation. Whether you are a lifelong rail enthusiast or simply seeking something extraordinary, this experience offers a unique chance to drive and fire a genuine steam locomotive. Under expert supervision, you will handle the controls of either 72 Fenchurch or SECR O1 65, subject to availability. A perfect introduction to steam for anyone looking to get closer to the action.
- Dates
- 6th November 2026 - 8th November 2026
- Event Type
- Drive a Train
- Location
- Sheffield Park Station, Sheffield Park, Uckfield, East Sussex, TN22 3QL, GB
- Distance
- 0 away
Pie and Mash Supper Train
All aboard for a delicious supper on board our pie & mash train!
Get ready to indulge in a classic British favourite aboard the charming Wealden Rambler Pie & Mash Supper Train! Step back in time as you journey through the stunning Sussex countryside in our beautifully restored vintage carriages. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of pie, mash, and all the trimmings served to your table, making this a perfect evening for friends, and family, or a romantic treat. Your ticket price includes your journey (approximately 1 hour, 45 minutes), a delicious supper and dessert and tea/coffee after your meal. The Bessemer Arms on Platform 1 will be open from 5.30pm – why not pop in for a drink before you board your train? Browse the menu and book your tickets here: https://www.bluebell-railway.com/special/pie-and-mash-supper-trains/
- Date
- 6th November 2026
- 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
- 6th November 2026
- Event Type
- Dining Experience
- Location
- Sheffield Park Station, Sheffield Park, Uckfield, East Sussex, TN22 3QL, GB
- Distance
- 0 away
Steam Footplate Experience
Steam Driver Experiences with 7820 Dinmore Manor
On Tuesday 10 September and Saturday 21 September we aim to make steam locomotive Dinmore Manor available for Silver Driver Experiences, which means that you as a lucky steam driver will get a feel of Dinmore Manor and experience her sheer power as you 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 Steam Driver Experience. Starting with a Safety Briefing, we then give a familiarisation session with the locomotive, to show how it works and how to operate its controls. We'll show our new Drivers how to start and stop the locomotive and train safely and what to do as they take it and the train along the 6 mile round trip of the line. Price £495 (includes VAT) Enjoy one trip of the line as a solo driving experience - drive Dinmore Manor to Thame Junction and return with expert tuition given by our experienced staff. You may be able take a second trip in the locomotive cab as an observer too. You can also bring along up to 6-Guests with you for a Free ride in the passenger coaches if arranged in advance - it's always enjoyable to join in with the fun on a Driving Experience - even for those who are not driving! In addition, you and your guests are welcome to come earlier / stay later for more trips of the line 'on the cushions' and please do discuss with Chris by email below. 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. Special Requests Our aim is to ensure all of our visitors enjoy a wonderful and memorable visit with us. If you have a special request for your Driving Experience, do let us know and we’ll see how we can accommodate your wishes. For further information and to book? You can book online below at any time. Or if you would like to find out more please email Chris, Experiences Coordinator, at driverexperience@chinnorrailway.co.uk
- Dates
- 7th November 2026 - 8th November 2026
- Event Type
- Drive a Train
- Location
- Station Road, Chinnor, Oxfordshire, OX39 4ER, GB
- Distance
- 0 away
Golden Arrow Luncheon
Enjoy a refined three-course lunch aboard a beautifully restored Pullman dining train.
Relax into the elegance of the Bluebell Railway’s Golden Arrow, a luxurious Pullman dining train inspired by the glamour of the historic express that once linked London and Paris. Settle into plush seating and admire polished wood interiors as a freshly prepared lunch is served at your table, accompanied by attentive hospitality and the evocative atmosphere of steam travel. Your journey takes you through the scenic Sussex Weald, offering classic countryside views as you enjoy fine food in comfort and style. It is an ideal experience for celebrations, special occasions or simply treating yourself to something memorable. Advance booking is essential. Book via our website.
- Dates
- 7th November 2026 - 8th November 2026
- Event Type
- Dining Experience
- Location
- Sheffield Park Station, Sheffield Park, Uckfield, East Sussex, TN22 3QL, GB
- Distance
- 0 away
Photography Specials
Fancy the opportunity to photograph some unique and scenic locations on Weardale Railway?
All aboard for a unique and unusual experience on the Weardale Railway, designed specifically for photographers. This guided photographic charter offers the chance to capture some of the most scenic and distinctive locations along the line. The day begins at Stanhope Station with a welcome, a briefing, and a safety talk before boarding a train with large windows offering excellent panoramic views of the dale. The experience lasts around four hours and includes travel to some of the most photogenic sections of the railway, combining natural scenery with Weardale's industrial heritage. At selected locations, the train will stop to allow participants to alight safely and take photographs from trackside. There are six planned stops along the route. A reasonable level of fitness is required, as participants will be getting on and off the train, although those who prefer to remain on board will still have opportunities to take photographs with guidance from the team. This experience is suitable for both budding and experienced photographers and offers access and viewpoints not normally available to the public.
- Date
- 8th November 2026
- Location
- Stanhope Station, Station Road, Stanhope, Bishop Auckland, County Durham, DL13 2YS, GB
- Distance
- 0 away
Steam Footplate Tasters
Experience the thrill and nostalgia of the golden age of steam on our exclusive Footplate Taster Day at the Bluebell Railway. Step onto the footplate and feel the power of a working steam locomotive.
Step into the boots of a steam engine driver or fireman and join our experienced crew for an unforgettable hands-on session aboard one of our heritage locomotives. This immersive experience lets you enjoy the sights, sounds and sensations of working on the footplate while learning the basic skills of steam locomotive operation. Whether you are a lifelong rail enthusiast or simply seeking something extraordinary, this experience offers a unique chance to drive and fire a genuine steam locomotive. Under expert supervision, you will handle the controls of either 72 Fenchurch or SECR O1 65, subject to availability. A perfect introduction to steam for anyone looking to get closer to the action.
- Dates
- 13th November 2026 - 15th November 2026
- Event Type
- Drive a Train
- Location
- Sheffield Park Station, Sheffield Park, Uckfield, East Sussex, TN22 3QL, GB
- Distance
- 0 away
Sussex Belle Fish & Chips Pullman
Board the Sussex Belle for an evening of gourmet fish and chips, travelling in a Pullman Car that harks back to the heyday of train travel.
Sit back in the comfort of a beautifully restored 1920s Pullman Car, with its marquetry panels and polished brasswork, as the vintage steam locomotive takes you on a journey through the Sussex Weald to East Grinstead. As the Sussex countryside passes by your window, enjoy exquisitely prepared fish and chips, followed by dessert and tea or coffee, all served at your table. Why not arrive early and enjoy a drink in the Bessemer Arms bar, browse the Bluebell Shop for a souvenir or gift, or look around SteamWorks, our interactive steam adventure exhibition. You can also order a range of alcoholic and soft drinks to be waiting at your table when you board. Drinks can be purchased during your journey as well. Whether you are marking a special occasion, catching up with friends or family, or simply treating yourself to a special evening out, the Sussex Belle offers an evening of fine food set against the backdrop of yesteryear train travel.
- Date
- 13th November 2026
- Event Type
- Dining Experience
- Event Type
- Fish & Chips
- Location
- Sheffield Park Station, Sheffield Park, Uckfield, East Sussex, TN22 3QL, GB
- Distance
- 0 away