Steam Locomotive Driving Experience
next dates
11 September (sold out)
25 September (sold out)
14 October (sold out)
21 October (sold out)
There is nothing quite like the sound, smell and power of a steam locomotive!
This really is a thrilling footplate experience! Starting at either 9.30am or 1.30pm at Alresford Station, you will meet the driver, fireman and other participants in the West Country Buffet. Following a safety briefing you will then head to the loco where you will be in control of one of our magnificent steam locomotives! You will have the opportunity to feed the firebox and keep the boiler pressure ‘on the mark’ and to experience what it is like to release the brakes, open the regulator and feel the engine surge forward with a rhythmic exhaust beat, under your control.
Under the expert instruction of our highly experienced crew, three of you will take it in turns to be the driver, fireman and work in Alresford Station signal box during the three hour session.
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 fleet available and cannot be specified in advance.
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 (they must be cotton).
Experience will either be from 9.30am until 1pm, or 1.30pm to 4.35pm.
Outline of the experience
• Meet the driver and fireman at Alresford Station
• Enjoy the journey up and down the line between Alresford Station and Ropley Station
• Experience the thrill of driving the magnicent train through the Hampshire countryside, overlooking the South Downs National Park
• Learn what it takes to fire the impressive loco to provide enough steam to travel along the line
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 and sturdy footwear (no trainers)
– Will be required to wear overalls
– 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
Â
Take a look at what to expect in the video below:
Tickets
Adults
Over 18 years
Advanced Booking: £425 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.
