Drive the Sentinel loco 7109 Joyce light engine

Driving experience with Sentinel locomotive 7109 Joyce at Princes Risborough

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.

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/

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.

The Bluebell Railway is thrilled to reveal a first look at our brand-new Halloween special!

Step aboard and meet the ghosts of the Bluebell Railway in a spine-tingling immersive theatrical experience, unlike anything ever seen on a heritage railway in the UK. Recommended for families with older children and adults, due to some elements throughout the evening. For more information and to book, please visit: https://www.bluebell-railway.com/special/the-ghost-train/

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/

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 the controls of one of our historic diesel locomotives and enjoy a short drive along Anchor Wharf under expert guidance.

Step onto the footplate and experience the sights and sounds of a working diesel 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.

Try your hand catching a duck by actually operating our Steam Crane.

Step onto the footplate and experience the sights, sounds, and heat of a working steam engine with our new Steam Crane Experience. Under the guidance of our friendly, knowledgeable crew, you'll learn the basics of controlling the crane as you put your skills to the test and try to hook one of our oversized ducks! 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

An opportunity to drive a Pacer DMU

How do you fancy taking the helm of a Diesel Multiple Unit? A four hour experience in prepping and driving a Pacer Unit.

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.