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woman sitting in drivers seat of diesel train on a train driving experience
woman at the controls of a diesel train with instructor on a train driving experience

Diesel Train Driving Experience

3 Locations
3 locations
UK-wide
Valid for
12 months
Instant
eVoucher
Free
exchanges
30-day
refund

The Highlights

  • Drive a diesel locomotive
  • 30, 60 or 120-minute drives, covering up to 16 miles of track
  • Elevated cab countryside views
  • Experienced train driving instructor
  • For ages 18+
  • Exchangeable Experience Gift
15% Off

3 Locations

Loading map...
  • Blaenavon
  • Alton
  • Chinnor

The Experience

All aboard for a one-of-a-kind adventure! The Diesel Train Driving Experience offers a rare chance to take control of a classic diesel locomotive and experience the thrill of driving a real train along heritage railway lines in Oxfordshire, South Wales or Hampshire.

In Oxfordshire, the journey takes place on the scenic Chinnor & Princes Risborough Railway, while in South Wales, the experience runs on the historic line at Blaenavon in Torfaen. At both locations, you’ll take control of a powerful 2,500 bhp Type 4 diesel locomotive, surrounded by countryside views and plenty of railway heritage.

In Hampshire, head to the Watercress Line for the chance to drive a classic Type 2 Class 31 between Alton and Medstead & Four Marks stations. Introduced by British Rail from the late 1950s, the Class 31 enjoyed a long and varied career across passenger, freight and engineering duties, making this a fascinating opportunity to experience a piece of British railway history from the driver’s cab.

After a warm welcome and full safety briefing from the experienced crew, it’s time to step aboard and take the controls. With expert guidance throughout, you’ll discover what it feels like to command a real diesel locomotive, taking in the sights and sounds of the railway as the engine powers along the line.

A range of driving options is available to suit different levels of enthusiasm, with experiences varying by location. Depending on the option chosen, you could enjoy a 30 minute drive covering around 4 miles shared with other participants, a 60 minute experience stretching to 8 miles with just one other driver, or a 120 minute private session covering the full route for a more immersive experience.

Perfect for railway fans, heritage enthusiasts or anyone looking for a gift that’s genuinely out of the ordinary, this is their chance to swap the passenger seat for the driver’s cab and experience the power, character and history of Britain’s diesel railways first-hand.

Important Information

30 minute drive
You will drive the train for approximately 4 miles.
You will be in a group with up to 3 other participants.

60 minute drive
You will drive the train for approximately 8 miles.
You will be in a group with 1 other participant.

120 minute drive
You will drive the train for the 16 mile round trip to Princes Risborough Station and back (8 miles per leg).
There will be no other participants, it will be just you and your train driving instructor.

This locomotive is a green class 37 216 (D6916) "light engine" with no carriages.

Available on selected dates throughout the year.

Please allow 2 hours for the whole experience.

Your voucher is valid for 12 Months from the date of issue.

Please note you must have booked and taken your experience before the expiry date.

  • For ages 18+
  • All participants should ensure that they are in good health and if in doubt should seek the medical advice of their GP.

The centres contracted with us hold public liability insurance. We also hold contingency liability cover. You will not be liable for accidental damage to equipment, except where damage has been caused as a result of recklessness or wilful negligence.

A cancellation indemnity, subject to terms, is included with every voucher.

Images are for illustrative purposes only. The experience may vary by location or availability. Please refer to the experience description for full details of what is included.

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