Back for 2025, our popular Murder Mystery events are ready to roll, with two exciting new shows available this year!

Embark on an unforgettable journey where mystery and fine dining intertwine, offering a unique experience – a murder mystery dinner aboard a steam train. The evening begins with pre-murder cocktails (not included in the price), setting the stage for an atmosphere shrouded in intrigue and suspense. These early moments are crucial, laying the groundwork for the enigmatic events that are about to unfold. As you sip your drink, observe the interactions around you – they could provide the first clues to unlocking the mystery. As the plot thickens, you'll witness a meticulously planned murder unfold before your very eyes. This marks the start of your adventure into the unknown, where every detail matters, and every character becomes a suspect. The transition from witness to detective is seamless as you board the majestic Pullman carriages, hauled by a steam locomotive, stepping back in time to an era of elegance and mystery. Seated comfortably, you’ll be presented with detective packs and clues alongside a sumptuous three-course meal. The immersive experience continues as the train steams through the High Weald of Sussex, building suspense as the thrilling investigation unfolds onboard. Your role as a detective is both challenging and exhilarating. Throughout the journey, you'll have the opportunity to cross-examine the surviving characters, piecing together their testimonies and searching for inconsistencies. Be vigilant, for amid the genuine leads are cunningly placed red herrings designed to throw you off the scent. Trust no one, as the murderer is among you, weaving lies and deceit to conceal their identity. The success of your investigation hinges on your ability to discern truth from falsehood, connect all the dots, and ultimately unmask the culprit. Book tickets via "The Company Upfront" using the details below: Phone: 01732 862353 Email: info@murder-party.co.uk Online: www.murder-party.co.uk

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/

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.

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/

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.

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.

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.

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.

We’re offering you the chance to go on the footplate and join the crew as they take you on a full round trip of the line.

We’re offering you the chance to go on the footplate and join the crew as they take you on a full round trip of the line. You’ll get to watch what’s involved in operating one of our steam or diesel locomotives, as it hauls today’s passenger service. You’ll need to be physically fit and able to climb up into the cab and be able to stand for the duration of the journey, but you’ll be able to see first hand what it’s like for our volunteer crews. Please note, this is not a full Driver Experience and you wont be driving the train

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/

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.

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.

Climb aboard a train of historic carriages and enjoy a meal served on the move!

The North Norfolkman luxury dining train runs on selected lunchtimes. Enjoy a complimentary locally-produced drink on arrival – choose from ale, lager, cider or apple juice – all made within the County. Then, relax in the comfort of one of our dining cars built for British Railways in the 1950s or ’60s and boasting restored interiors of varnished wood and a distinctive upholstery moquette that was characteristic of the period. As your train steams gently from Sheringham to Holt and return, enjoy the changing vista of some of the County’s finest countryside coastal views whilst savouring a delicious meal, freshly prepared and cooked onboard. a will be served at your seat by the attentive team of waiters. A glass of house wine, beer or a soft drink to accompany your meal will be served at your table by the team of attentive waiters. The train will make two return journeys so you can enjoy your meal a leisurely pace and steam occasionally drifting past the window, you will be transported briefly back to a time when the pace of life was less hurried. 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 12.00noon, departing at 12.25pm . You will arrive back in Sheringham around 3.10 – 3.30pm. ADVANCE BOOKING ESSENTIAL For further details: https://www.nnrailway.co.uk/portfolio-items/premier-lunch/

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/

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/