What Can I Expect

Drive a steam traction engine near beautiful Lake Windermere in Cumbria! This wonderful half-day traction engine driving experience can be shared with a friend or partner as the second driver on the footplate. 

Each steam traction engine course is tailored to you, to ensure all drivers have a great experience, whether they are knowledgeable enthusiasts, or have never set foot on a steam traction engine before.

Your day starts at Old Hall Farm, an idyllic countryside setting just five miles from Newby Bridge at the southern tip of Lake Windermere. You'll meet Stuart and family who own and operate this nostalgic steam traction engine.

‘Western Star', as she is called, was hand-built by John Fowler in 1912. This is a fine piece of Victorian engineering, boasting 5hp from the coal-fired, steam engine. She spent all her working life in Wales, pulling heavy loads along the roads.

Dismantled and abandoned after all those long, faithful years of service, Stuart bought Western Star in 1978. It was a labour of love over four years to restore her back to her former glory. Since then, this fantastic machine has rolled over 50,000 miles attending fetes, rallies and charity events around Cumbria.

Now it's time for you to light up the coal powered steam engine and prepare the engine for driving. You will have the opportunity to step onto the footplate and perform some manoeuvres with the engine and then drive for a few miles down the road.

It's a wonderful feeling as you trundle sure-footed and steady in this heavy steam loco traction engine from a bygone age. And remember, you can share this half-day experience. It's totally up to you. Driving a steam traction engine is always hugely popular, so make sure you book well in advance. And the operator can assist with accommodation suggestions if you're travelling for this experience.

When Is It Available

• Experiences operate from the end of March to October
• Morning sessions start at 10am until 1.30pm and afternoon sessions at 2pm until 5.30pm

Suitable For

• No experience is required for driving the traction engine
• Minumum age is 18
• A full UK or European driving licence is required

Spectators

• Spectators are welcome to come along to watch and take photographs at the engine start point
• Chairs can be provided 
• Half of the course takes place off site so spectators are welcome to go for a walk or to the nearby local pub