A half-day course featuring TWO complete round trips over the full length of our line on one of our impressive steam locomotives!

Our silver experience gives you the opportunity to have two complete round trips over the full length of our picturesque line working one of our magnificently-restored steam locomotives at the head of a train between Sheringham and Holt. You will drive one trip and fire one trip spending 11 miles doing each. You will learn about the workings of the engine and the operation of our railway under the guidance of our fully qualified crew. This package is offered on several dates throughout the year and we take two participants and their guests on each half-day experience. The morning session begins at Sheringham at 9.00 where participants are welcomed with a bacon roll and mug of tea before meeting the engine crew and climbing aboard the footplate for two full round trips with a private train of passenger carriages to Holt and back. There’s then time for a light lunch before catching the train to Weybourne for a guided tour of the Engine and Carriage Sheds before returning to Sheringham. The session ends the presentation of a certificate as a souvenir of the day. Participants may bring up to six guests to spectate (they will not be able to ride on the footplate) but they arrive at 11.00am travel in one of the carriages on the train, enjoy lunch and join the guided tour. Guests are charged at £25 each. Afternoon sessions start at 12.30 at Sheringham for participants and their guests. After checking in, you will travel by train to Weybourne to take a look behind the scenes on a tour of the Engine and Carriage Sheds. After travelling back to Sheringham, participants will meet the engine crew on the footplate followed by the chance to drive and fire the locomotive hauling a private train of passenger carriages during two return trips to Holt. Guests can ride in one of the carriages of the train during the first of these trips and have free time in Sheringham while participants complete the second run. The afternoon ends with tea and cake for participants along with the presentation of a souvenir certificate. Guests are charged at £25 each. ADVANCED BOOKING ESSENTIAL For further details: https://www.nnrailway.co.uk/portfolio-items/steam-driver-experience-silver/

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.

Have your chance of driving Class 73 E6040 'The Bluebell Railway' on a diesel footplate taster experience.

Be among the first to drive Class 73, E6040 'The Bluebell Railway', on this exclusive Electro-Diesel Footplate Experience! Spend approximately 1 1/4 hours operating the 80 ton heavy express passenger locomotive around Horsted Keynes, and a thrilling run to Kingscote and back along with a brake van that your family and friends can book to travel on (see below for additional booking). Along the way, you’ll pass through the impressive 731-yard (668 m) Sharpthorne Tunnel, the longest tunnel on a UK heritage railway—a thrilling highlight for any railway enthusiast! Ideal for anyone seeking an extraordinary day out to drive a real train, this hands-on experience offers a thrilling glimpse back into the 1980’s and 1990’s when you might have gone on holiday or to work on a train this locomotive hauled or been a railway enthusiast keeping an eye out for locomotives like this flying past. Make sure you book now whilst space is available! https://www.bluebell-railway.com/special/class-73-footplate-tasters/

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/

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.

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.

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.

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.

oin us and Fox & Edwards Events for a steam train journey with a difference - a fish and chips meal to enjoy!

Take in the picturesque scenery on a round trip from Norden station (where there is car parking - postcode BH20 5DW) in a heritage carriage from the 1950s or early 1960s, hauled by a steam locomotive. The trip takes approximately 70 minutes - perfect for getting a good "fill" of nostalgia or celebrating a birthday, anniversary or other special occasions. The fish and chips meal, bottle of water and baked sweet treat (flapjack or biscuits) are served at the half-way point in the journey for the return trip. Alternative meal options are offered for those who prefer not to have fish and these are selected when purchasing tickets. Reviews for other Fox & Edwards Events journeys include: "It was nice to have a bit of nostalgia from childhood memories" "Staff was pleasant and helpful polite, questions through emails was quickly answered fantastic service" ​ "Lovely relaxing day out" "Thank you to all who helped make our day feel really special. We all felt like VIP's. Well done!" We are currently unable to welcome dogs on this trip. Please note that tables are arranged in fours. Groups of two may be seated on the same table as other groups of two. Adult Ticket - £37.50 Child Ticket (Aged 3 to 11) - £24.95 Infant Ticket (Aged 2 and under) - Free Service provided by Fox and Edwards not the Swanage Railway. Swanage Railway does not take nor administer bookings, Swanage Railway gift card cannot be redeemed against this product.

Experience a night of laughter whilst enjoying a luxury 3 course meal aboard the North Norfolkman!

Departing Sheringham at 7:00pm, one of our steam locomotives will haul the ‘The North Norfolkman’ luxury dining train carrying you on two round trips along the picturesque North Norfolk coastline to Weybourne and Holt. Enjoy a three-course meal on the move and be entertained by adroit and amusing tributes to your favourite Comedy Greats. Each evening has a distinct theme and many diners choose to dress the part – this is encouraged but not compulsory. Be enthralled by a crazy hotelier taking a break from Torquay; or a 1940s café owner who is reluctantly caught up in the French Resistance; or a ‘slightly simple’ 1920s gentleman and his sensible man-servant – along with all their mad-cap friends and family. Once you get on board there’s no going back – you can expect to be caught up in the immersive, hilarious adventure from start to finish. ‘The North Norfolkman’ boasts an onboard bar selling a selection alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Dining is very popular, so book early to avoid disappointment. Please note this service is not suitable for children under the age of 12. Trains are available to board from 6.30pm and arrival back in Sheringham is at approximately 10.30pm. ADVANCE BOOKING ESSENTIAL For further details: https://www.nnrailway.co.uk/portfolio-items/comedy-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/

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Our combined All-Day Rover Ticket and Sparkling Afternoon Tea offer is the perfect opportunity for a relaxing full or half-day out on Sunday 28 May; 11 & 25 June; 23 July 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 Sparkling Afternoon Tea served at your reserved seats in the Train Restaurant - which departs from Chinnor station at 13.10 hours.

Our volunteer stewards will be delighted to welcome you onboard the Train Restaurant and serve your Sparkling Afternoon Tea provided by Ashlea Catering, together with a glass of Prosecco and 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. If you are looking for something more in the local area, please see our What to see and do section for more information. TICKETS & PRICE: All-Day Rover Ticket and Sparkling Afternoon Tea £38 per person - minimum of 2-persons per table. Seat reservations for the Train Restaurant are included on the 13.10 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: Welcome drink - glass of Sparkling Prosecco, or Orange/Apple Juice, plus a 200ml bottle of still water Afternoon Tea - Selection of Savouries, Sandwiches (Vegetarian option available), Homemade Scone and Cake 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 and thank you for your support.

A truly indulgent treat!

Take a seat in our First Class dining carriage and enjoy a Chocolate-inspired Afternoon Tea. You'll be welcomed onboard with a mug of liqueur hot chocolate before being served a selection of freshly made sandwiches, chocolate chip scones and a selection of cakes.

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/

Relax with a traditional Afternoon Tea served at your seat in a heritage dining carriage, as you enjoy a steam-hauled journey through the scenic valley of the River Dart.

Treat yourself to a traditional Afternoon Tea experience aboard the South Devon Limited Restaurant Car. Travel in style behind a heritage locomotive through the beautiful valley of the River Dart while enjoying a delicious selection of sandwiches, savouries, and cakes served at your seat. Departing Buckfastleigh at 15:45, the train returns at 17:00 with the experience concluding at 17:15. The menu is made using fresh, local ingredients, and special dietary requirements can be catered for when specified at the time of booking. Tickets include your train fare, first class upgrade, all elements of your Afternoon Tea, and unlimited travel on other South Devon Railway public services for the day of your visit. Drinks are available to purchase from the at-seat bar, offering wines, local ales, ciders, and soft drinks. Afternoon Tea is available on selected Sundays between March and November. It's the perfect way to unwind and indulge in West Country charm aboard a lovingly restored heritage train.