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
- Drive a Train
- Dining Experience
- Fish & Chips
- Behind the Scenes Access
- Murder Mystery
- Gin/Beer/Ale Train
- Curry Night
- Father Christmas Event
- All Dates
- 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 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
- 15th 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.
- Dates
- 18th November 2026 - 20th November 2026
- Event Type
- Drive a Train
- Location
- Sheffield Park Station, Sheffield Park, Uckfield, East Sussex, TN22 3QL, GB
- Distance
- 0 away
Premier Lunchtime Dining Trains
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.
- Date
- 22nd November 2026
- Event Type
- Dining Experience
- Location
- Sheringham Station, Station Approach, Sheringham, Norfolk, NR26 8RA, GB
- Distance
- 0 away
Golden Arrow Christmas Trains
Step into Festive Elegance this December! Join us aboard the Golden Arrow Christmas Dining Train for a magical dining experience like no other.
Indulge in a delicious, festive meal served in vintage Pullman-style carriages, beautifully decorated for the season. Let the rhythm of the steam train and the warm glow of our historic Pullman carriages set the perfect scene for a memorable Christmas celebration with loved ones. This is your chance to enjoy fine dining on the rails—a Christmas tradition you’ll cherish forever. Don’t miss out—book your seats today!
- Date
- 22nd 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.
- Dates
- 23rd November 2026 - 26th November 2026
- Event Type
- Drive a Train
- Location
- Sheffield Park Station, Sheffield Park, Uckfield, East Sussex, TN22 3QL, GB
- Distance
- 0 away
Santa Specials
Take a ride on our Santa Specials to meet Santa and receive a early Christmas Gift
- Dates
- 28th November 2026 - 29th November 2026
- Event Type
- Father Christmas Event
- Location
- Bitton Station, Bath Road, Bitton, Bristol, BS30 6HD, GB
- Distance
- 0 away
Santa Steam Specials
All aboard the Santa Steam Specials! This enchanting journey is the ultimate festive treat for children, offering a magical steam train ride from Princes Risborough to Santa's Grotto at his North Pole station. Here, little ones can share their Christmas wishes with Santa himself!
On selected dates in November and December, all trains will depart from Princes Risborough Station Platform 4 (SatNav HP27 9DN), where Santa's stewards will warmly welcome you onboard. During the journey, the Elves will entertain the children with activity packs, puzzles, handouts, children's games and 'Letters-to-Santa'. The steam train will take you to Santa's Enchanted Workshop and Grotto at the North Pole station. Here, you can enjoy refreshments, chat with Santa, take memorable photos, and receive a Christmas present for every child. An added attraction this year will be face painting for the 3-11 year-olds while the trains are in the platform at Chinnor. On the return journey, volunteers will ensure all children are delighted with their gifts and their painted faces. Travel in comfort in our 1950s carriages, named after Santa's reindeer - Rudolph, Blitzen, Dasher, and Prancer. Seats are booked at tables to keep families together. Enjoy the traditional elements of our Santa experience: the steam train ride, hot and cold beverages, mince pies or biscuits, and a magical visit with Santa. Additional treats like sandwiches, hot sausage rolls, crisps, snacks, and mulled wine can be purchased at the station cafe, and you might find some last-minute presents in our station shop. Important Details: Early Season dates (5 pounds off) are 29 and 30 November 2025 - Adult, Senior or Child 1-12 years £24.50 per person. Peak Season dates are 6, 7, 13, 14, 19, 20, 21, 22 December 2025 - Adult, Senior or Child 1-12 years £29.50 per person. Train departure times and duration: Princes Risborough departures at 10.30, 12.30, and 14.30, duration approximately 1 hour 35 minutes. Departure location: Santa Steam Specials depart from and return to Platform 4, Princes Risborough Station HP27 9DN. Car parking: Chiltern Railways Pay-and-Display at the station (SatNav HP27 9DN) - currently charging Saturday and Sunday £6.50, Friday and Monday £9.30. Accessibility: a wheelchair space is available in a separate area of the train and is limited to one wheelchair dependent person and one accompanying carer at the individual seat price shown above. Please phone 07979 055366 between 10.00 and 16.00 on weekdays to book tickets. Buggies and strollers: must be left on Platform 4 at Princes Risborough, or you may prefer to leave them in your car for added security. Sorry, they cannot be carried on the train. Presents: each child ticket (1-12 years) includes a present. 'Babes in arms' under 1 year do not need a ticket but will still receive a small gift. Unfortunately, adults and teenagers do not receive a gift from Santa! Complimentary refreshments: mince pie or biscuits and a drink of tea, coffee, chocolate or a fruit shoot are included in the ticket price and will be served at Chinnor station. Limited dietary needs are catered for. Station cafe at Chinnor: on sale hot mulled wine, hot sausage rolls, vegetarian and vegan sausage rolls, sandwiches in wholemeal bread (chicken and stuffing, brie and cranberry, tuna mayo and sweetcorn, cheese and pickle), chocolate bars, cans, water, fruit shoot, crisps and snacks. Booking size: passengers in one booking will be seated together where possible. If you want to sit with another family group, please tell us when booking your ticket in the 'additional information' section at the bottom of the Checkout page. Tables in our carriages seat four people, and if your booking is for individual seats in multiples other than four, you may be sharing a table with another family. Groups: we welcome groups and will always try to ensure you are seated together, but please note there are generally no discounted fares. For bona-fide groups of Brownies, Cubs and similar organisations, we may be able to offer concessions for a limited number of accompanying adults - please enquire via email. Dogs: unlike some Santa experiences, small dogs are welcome to travel on our Santa Special trains, but they must be kept on a short lead and are not allowed on the seats. Due to hygiene and other considerations, dogs (except assistance or guide dogs) cannot be taken into Santa's Grotto.
- Dates
- 28th November 2026 - 29th November 2026
- Event Type
- Father Christmas Event
- Location
- Station Road, Chinnor, Oxfordshire, OX39 4ER, GB
- Distance
- 0 away
Santa Express 2026
THIS CHRISTMAS, CATCH THE MAGICAL SANTA EXPRESS! MAKING CHRISTMAS MAGIC, ONE TRAIN AT A TIME!
Ready to make this Christmas one your family will never forget? Every year, families return to create magical Christmas memories together - the excitement, the lights, the music, and the moment the little ones see Santa. It's what Christmas is all about. Limited availability A magical family experience Memories that last a lifetime Book now and start your Christmas countdown the right way! https://santaexpress.co.uk/
- Dates
- 28th November 2026 - 29th November 2026
- Event Type
- Father Christmas Event
- 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
- 30th November 2026 - 2nd December 2026
- Event Type
- Drive a Train
- 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
- 2nd December 2026
- Event Type
- Dining Experience
- Location
- Sheffield Park Station, Sheffield Park, Uckfield, East Sussex, TN22 3QL, GB
- Distance
- 0 away
Premier Lunchtime Dining Trains
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.
- Date
- 3rd December 2026
- Event Type
- Dining Experience
- Location
- Sheringham Station, Station Approach, Sheringham, Norfolk, NR26 8RA, GB
- Distance
- 0 away
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
- 3rd December 2026
- Event Type
- Dining Experience
- Location
- Sheffield Park Station, Sheffield Park, Uckfield, East Sussex, TN22 3QL, GB
- Distance
- 0 away
Murder Mystery Evening
Step into a world of intrigue and suspense with the Bluebell Railway's captivating Murder Mystery evenings.
Begin your evening with pre-murder drinks (not included in the ticket price) before witnessing the dramatic events that lead to a dastardly crime. You will then take your seat aboard the magnificent Golden Arrow, where detective packs, clues and a delicious three-course meal await. As the steam train journeys through the Sussex countryside in beautifully restored heritage carriages, you will have the chance to question the surviving characters, gather evidence and complete a series of detective challenges. Keep an eye out for the inevitable red herrings, and remember that the murderer will do everything they can to mislead you. Before the evening draws to a close, submit your verdict and discover whether you have successfully unmasked the killer. Perfect for amateur sleuths and lovers of immersive theatre, our Murder Mystery evenings promise a unique and unforgettable experience. Murder at Calico Creek Available from April to December Welcome to the Wild West and the small frontier town of Calico Creek in 1862. Nestled in California's Sacramento Valley, the town was once a bustling centre of activity during the Gold Rush of 1849. Now, its hopeful residents look to the eagerly anticipated transcontinental railroad to bring prosperity and secure their futures. The townsfolk have gathered to celebrate the wedding of Mary Leigh and James Willoughby, two young pioneers chasing the American dream. Among the guests is Ryan Stone, son of Mayor Joseph Stone and his formidable wife, Agnes. Ryan hopes to persuade the widowed Sugars to become his bride. Intelligent, determined and fiercely independent, Sugars has endured great hardship but remains resolute in building a new life. However, the arrival of a mysterious stranger soon unsettles the town. As tensions rise, the wedding celebrations are shattered by the sound of gunfire. One unfortunate soul meets a violent end, and it is up to you to uncover the truth before the killer escapes justice.
- Date
- 4th December 2026
- Event Type
- Dining Experience
- Event Type
- Murder Mystery
- 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
- 4th December 2026 - 5th December 2026
- Event Type
- Dining Experience
- Location
- Sheffield Park Station, Sheffield Park, Uckfield, East Sussex, TN22 3QL, GB
- Distance
- 0 away
Santa Specials
Take a ride on our Santa Specials to meet Santa and receive a early Christmas Gift
- Dates
- 5th December 2026 - 6th December 2026
- Event Type
- Father Christmas Event
- Location
- Bitton Station, Bath Road, Bitton, Bristol, BS30 6HD, GB
- Distance
- 0 away
Santa Steam Specials
All aboard the Santa Steam Specials! This enchanting journey is the ultimate festive treat for children, offering a magical steam train ride from Princes Risborough to Santa's Grotto at his North Pole station. Here, little ones can share their Christmas wishes with Santa himself!
On selected dates in November and December, all trains will depart from Princes Risborough Station Platform 4 (SatNav HP27 9DN), where Santa's stewards will warmly welcome you onboard. During the journey, the Elves will entertain the children with activity packs, puzzles, handouts, children's games and 'Letters-to-Santa'. The steam train will take you to Santa's Enchanted Workshop and Grotto at the North Pole station. Here, you can enjoy refreshments, chat with Santa, take memorable photos, and receive a Christmas present for every child. An added attraction this year will be face painting for the 3-11 year-olds while the trains are in the platform at Chinnor. On the return journey, volunteers will ensure all children are delighted with their gifts and their painted faces. Travel in comfort in our 1950s carriages, named after Santa's reindeer - Rudolph, Blitzen, Dasher, and Prancer. Seats are booked at tables to keep families together. Enjoy the traditional elements of our Santa experience: the steam train ride, hot and cold beverages, mince pies or biscuits, and a magical visit with Santa. Additional treats like sandwiches, hot sausage rolls, crisps, snacks, and mulled wine can be purchased at the station cafe, and you might find some last-minute presents in our station shop. Important Details: Early Season dates (5 pounds off) are 29 and 30 November 2025 - Adult, Senior or Child 1-12 years £24.50 per person. Peak Season dates are 6, 7, 13, 14, 19, 20, 21, 22 December 2025 - Adult, Senior or Child 1-12 years £29.50 per person. Train departure times and duration: Princes Risborough departures at 10.30, 12.30, and 14.30, duration approximately 1 hour 35 minutes. Departure location: Santa Steam Specials depart from and return to Platform 4, Princes Risborough Station HP27 9DN. Car parking: Chiltern Railways Pay-and-Display at the station (SatNav HP27 9DN) - currently charging Saturday and Sunday £6.50, Friday and Monday £9.30. Accessibility: a wheelchair space is available in a separate area of the train and is limited to one wheelchair dependent person and one accompanying carer at the individual seat price shown above. Please phone 07979 055366 between 10.00 and 16.00 on weekdays to book tickets. Buggies and strollers: must be left on Platform 4 at Princes Risborough, or you may prefer to leave them in your car for added security. Sorry, they cannot be carried on the train. Presents: each child ticket (1-12 years) includes a present. 'Babes in arms' under 1 year do not need a ticket but will still receive a small gift. Unfortunately, adults and teenagers do not receive a gift from Santa! Complimentary refreshments: mince pie or biscuits and a drink of tea, coffee, chocolate or a fruit shoot are included in the ticket price and will be served at Chinnor station. Limited dietary needs are catered for. Station cafe at Chinnor: on sale hot mulled wine, hot sausage rolls, vegetarian and vegan sausage rolls, sandwiches in wholemeal bread (chicken and stuffing, brie and cranberry, tuna mayo and sweetcorn, cheese and pickle), chocolate bars, cans, water, fruit shoot, crisps and snacks. Booking size: passengers in one booking will be seated together where possible. If you want to sit with another family group, please tell us when booking your ticket in the 'additional information' section at the bottom of the Checkout page. Tables in our carriages seat four people, and if your booking is for individual seats in multiples other than four, you may be sharing a table with another family. Groups: we welcome groups and will always try to ensure you are seated together, but please note there are generally no discounted fares. For bona-fide groups of Brownies, Cubs and similar organisations, we may be able to offer concessions for a limited number of accompanying adults - please enquire via email. Dogs: unlike some Santa experiences, small dogs are welcome to travel on our Santa Special trains, but they must be kept on a short lead and are not allowed on the seats. Due to hygiene and other considerations, dogs (except assistance or guide dogs) cannot be taken into Santa's Grotto.
- Dates
- 5th December 2026 - 6th December 2026
- Event Type
- Father Christmas Event
- Location
- Station Road, Chinnor, Oxfordshire, OX39 4ER, GB
- Distance
- 0 away
Santa Express 2026
THIS CHRISTMAS, CATCH THE MAGICAL SANTA EXPRESS! MAKING CHRISTMAS MAGIC, ONE TRAIN AT A TIME!
Ready to make this Christmas one your family will never forget? Every year, families return to create magical Christmas memories together - the excitement, the lights, the music, and the moment the little ones see Santa. It's what Christmas is all about. Limited availability A magical family experience Memories that last a lifetime Book now and start your Christmas countdown the right way! https://santaexpress.co.uk/
- Dates
- 5th December 2026 - 6th December 2026
- Event Type
- Father Christmas Event
- Location
- Stanhope Station, Station Road, Stanhope, Bishop Auckland, County Durham, DL13 2YS, GB
- Distance
- 0 away
Premier Lunchtime Dining Trains
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.
- Date
- 9th December 2026
- Event Type
- Dining Experience
- Location
- Sheringham Station, Station Approach, Sheringham, Norfolk, NR26 8RA, GB
- Distance
- 0 away
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 December 2026
- Event Type
- Dining Experience
- Location
- Sheffield Park Station, Sheffield Park, Uckfield, East Sussex, TN22 3QL, GB
- Distance
- 0 away
Premier Lunchtime Dining Trains
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.
- Date
- 11th December 2026
- Event Type
- Dining Experience
- Location
- Sheringham Station, Station Approach, Sheringham, Norfolk, NR26 8RA, GB
- Distance
- 0 away