Diesel Locomotive Driving Experience
There is nothing quite like the sound and power of a diesel locomotive!
This really is a thrilling experience! Starting at either 9.30am or 1.10pm at Alresford Station, you will meet the driver and other participants in the West Country Buffet. You will have the opportunity to experience what it is like to release the brakes, apply power and feel the engine surge forward, under your control.
Under the expert instruction of our highly experienced crew, three of you will take it in turns to be the driver and assisting the driver (exchanging tokens and looking out for signals), during the three hour session. During the experience you will also get the chance to see how the locomotive operates.
There is no need for any previous experience – first-timers are welcome!
You are welcome to bring guests along but there will be no carriages for them to travel in (as the experience uses just the locomotive). They are welcome to visit the West Country Buffet for hot & cold food and drinks.
This is a ‘once in a lifetime’ opportunity and there will be plenty of time to take photos to remember the day.
Locomotives will be used from the current heritage fleet available. They will be listed here for the 2026 dates soon but may be subject to change in the event of a failure.
Please note, The Watercress Line reserves the right to reschedule a driving experience if the minimum number of three participants booked on a specific session is not reached, or for any other reason.
There are three places in each session so you will be required to share the day with others.
Overalls can be provided to protect clothing, unless you want to bring your own.
Experience will either be from 9.30am until 12.45pm, or 1.10pm to 4.20pm.
Outline of the experience
• Meet the driver at Alresford Station
• Enjoy the journey up and down the line between Alresford Station and Ropley Station
• Experience the thrill of driving the powerful locomotive through the Hampshire countryside, overlooking the South Downs National Park
• Assist the driver by exchanging tokens and looking out for signals
What's included:
• Coffee and pastry on arrival
• Guests are welcome to come with you (but they will need to stay at Alresford Station)
• Commemorative certificate
Participants must:
– Be 18 years old or over
– Complete a medical questionnaire once you have booked this experience
– Be physically fit and be able to ascend and descend a ladder
– Must not be under the influence or consume alcohol or drugs prior or during the experience
– Wear appropriate old clothes (could get dirty) and sturdy footwear (no trainers)
– If participants are taking any medication, please check the advice for driving while taking them
– This activity may not be suitable for those with some disabilities, particularly where mobility is affected
Tickets
Adults
Over 18 years
Advanced Booking: £310 per person (half day)
Please note:
Once this experience has been booked, it cannot be cancelled or transferred to another date.
Pets are not permitted to accompany participants on their experience.
Parking
Alresford Station: Pay & display car park, operated by Winchester City Council.
Disabled parking and electric charge points available. Cash or RingGo app location 42519.
The company does not guarantee that the trains will arrive or depart at the times stated and reserves the right to cancel, alter or suspend any train without notice, or to substitute a different train should this be necessary for whatever reason.
