Ecclesbourne Valley Railway Ticket Portal

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Our Silver Drive a Steam Locomotive footplate experience day is every rail enthusiasts dream! This full day experience provides you with the opportunity to drive and fire a large steam locomotive pulling a train of heritage coaches along the Ecclesbourne Valley Railway, with expert tuition from our friendly team.

• Try your hand with the shovel firing the locomotive and master the driving controls during the trip
• Share the day with other participants to complete a full return journey of 18 miles. Your time on the footplate will be around 2 hours spread across the day.
• Welcome hot drink and continental-style breakfast and safety brief in The Apollo at Wirksworth on arrival.
• One guest is included who will be able to ride in the heritage coaches whilst you are on the footplate and enjoy lunch with the group.
• You will be on and around the railway for a full day from 08:45 until around 17:00, travelling on the train inbetween your time at the controls
• You will stop the train in a picturesque location in the middle of the day where we will serve a two-course hot meal on board to all the participants and their guests.
• Certificate of completion at the end of the experience

Points to note

• Participants must be aged 18 or above and have a reasonable level of fitness.
• Overalls and boots should be warn, gloves will be provided.
• Please provide us with any dietary requirements you may have prior to the day.