Enjoy a first class dining experience with a three-course Sunday lunch served on board a heritage train. Sit back and take in the Hampshire countryside while dining in Pullman-style comfort.

tep aboard for a memorable Sunday journey combining the elegance of heritage travel with fine dining at its best. Guests are welcomed into luxurious first class carriages featuring original wooden interiors, upholstered seating, table lamps, and crisp white tablecloths. This is an experience designed for those looking to celebrate a special occasion, treat a loved one, or simply enjoy a relaxed afternoon of excellent food and timeless travel. A freshly prepared three-course lunch is served at your seat, with dishes created by acclaimed local caterers using seasonal ingredients. Warm bread and butter, coffee or tea, and the option to purchase from an extensive wine list, including a local sparkling wine, all add to the experience. With views of the South Downs rolling past your window, The Royal Wessex offers a taste of classic railway dining in a peaceful and picturesque setting.

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.

Join a thrilling murder mystery evening aboard a First Class heritage train with a three-course dinner and live theatre. Solve the clues, question the suspects and enjoy the journey through scenic Hampshire.

All aboard for an evening of mystery, drama and fine dining. Your experience begins on the platform, where a cast of actors sets the scene before you step into the First Class comfort of the Watercress Belle. Once seated at your elegantly dressed table, you will be served a freshly prepared three-course meal as the story unfolds around you. Actors move through the train between courses, allowing you to question suspects and piece together the clues while enjoying countryside views and period background music. Each story is set in the 1950s and styled in the spirit of classic British crime fiction. Guests are encouraged to dress for the era, though it is not required. Notepaper, pencils and guest materials are provided, and there are prizes for those who crack the case. Whether you are a seasoned sleuth or a first-time detective, these evenings offer a unique blend of theatre, food and nostalgia in a truly atmospheric setting.

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.

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.

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.

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/

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.

Enjoy a freshly prepared meal served at your seat while travelling through the beautiful North Norfolk countryside on a luxury heritage dining train.

Climb aboard a train of historic British Railways dining carriages from the 1950s and 1960s, restored with polished wood interiors and classic period upholstery. Sit back with a complimentary locally produced drink as the train takes you on a relaxed journey with views of the coast and countryside. Freshly prepared dishes are served at your table by friendly, attentive staff, making this a memorable way to enjoy heritage railway travel. It is a refined dining experience that brings the romance of classic rail travel to life in comfort and style. Advance booking is essential. Book via our website.

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.

Step into the shoes of a diesel driver!

Our Diesel Driver experiences give you the opportunity to be at the controls for over the full length of our picturesque line between Sheringham and Holt. BRONZE DIESEL EXPERIENCE This experience gives you a taste of being a secondman and of driving during a return journey between Sheringham and Holt. Climb aboard a powerful diesel locomotive (on its own, without a train) for two 11 mile trips. You will alternate between being a secondman and of driving, spending 11 miles doing each and learning about the workings of the engine and the railway under the guidance of a fully qualified crew. The bronze experience is offered on several dates throughout the year usually starting at 09:45, 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 secondman in the cab of the locomotive. At the end of the session each participant is awarded a certificate as a souvenir of the experience. SILVER DIESEL EXPERIENCE Our silver diesel 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 diesel locomotives at the head of a private train of passenger carriages between Sheringham and Holt. You will drive one trip and be secondman for the other, 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, including the art of starting and stopping smoothly with a passenger train. 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 into the cab for two full round trips 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 in the cab) 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 be secondman on the locomotive during two return trips to Holt. Guests can ride in one of the carriages of the private 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/diesel-driver-experience/

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/

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/

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.

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.

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.

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/

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.

Our five day course provides a real insight into the enginemen’s art!

The Gold Driver Experience course runs over five consecutive days from Monday to Friday and is based at our locomotive workshops at Weybourne. The course starts with two days in the classroom learning about locomotive theory and method of working on the railway. The third day is practical experience of preparation of the loco followed by two days on the footplate out on our line – one with a light engine (a locomotive without carriages) and one hauling a train. Lunch will be provided and the days will be from 9:00 to 4:30. This package is offered on several dates throughout the year and we take just four participants on each course. ADVANCE BOOKING ESSENTIAL For further details: https://www.nnrailway.co.uk/portfolio-items/5-day-steam-driver-experience-gold/

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.