What Can I Expect

Go steam train driving in Leicestershire and be on the footplate for two return journeys on the Great Central Railway! This ‘Silver' drive package will see you spending an action-packed, full-day out at this wonderful heritage railway.

Train driving at the GCR starts as it should, with a cuppa and meeting the train's driver and fireman crew. What will immediately strike you is their passion and enthusiasm. Many of the steam train drivers working at the Great Central are former British Rail employees and you'll learn so much from them.

Leaving Loughborough station on the first southbound leg of your first journey, you'll be put to work on the footplate straight away. You will be totally hands-on from the word go. As an essential member of the team, you will be ensuring the steam-powered beauty runs to time on its journey to Leicester North, via Quorn & Woodhouse and Rothley stations.

A special moment will be crossing the lovely Swithland Reservoir. The image of the loco with the billowing steam, as she gracefully glides over the bridge is one you won't forget.

On arrival at Leicester North, all locos have to be ‘run around' to get in position and linked up to the other end of the coaches, ready to push them back to Loughborough. Once all set for departure, you will once again be a crucial member of the footplate crew, as you head back to Loughborough. In total, you'll be covering 32-miles of this unique double-track mainline heritage railway.

As well as the time on the footplate, you'll also be given a guided tour of the signal box (yes, it's as complex and physically demanding as you'd think!), see the loco shed and the apron with its vast display of locos, where volunteers will be beavering away on the latest restorations.

Lunch back in the refreshment room at Loughborough station is included for drivers and two guests, so you can eat whilst still being near to all the action on the platforms. We also love the fact that this Silver package includes tickets for two guests, so they can follow you on your journey to becoming a GCR steam train driver.

This is our most popular steam train driving package for the GCR and it always sells out, so don't delay, buy today!

When Is It Available

• Selected Fridays between April and October
• Due to the popularity of these experiences, we recommend booking around six months in advance

Please note this experience is currently fully booked for 2024. Dates for 2025 will be released shortly. Last updated (20/11/24). 

Suitable For

• Participants must be over 18 years of age
• You must be physically fit and be able to climb up into the engine cab
• No previous experience is necessary
• Drivers overalls are provided
• Customers are advised to wear sturdy footwear

Spectators

• Participants can bring up to 6 guests , two of which can travel free.  The remainder at concessionary rates
• Complimentary lunch is included for the driver and two guests only
• The station has a museum open to guests
• Guests may watch the driving from one of the stations and join in the tours and briefing