Drive a Heritage Diesel Train

Spend the day on the Ecclesbourne Valley Railway learning about and trying your hand at the operation of heritage diesel trains in a group with one of our friendly drivers.

One of our experienced drivers will introduce you to railway operations in the morning and you will take it in turns to drive the 18 mile return journey between Wirksworth in the Derbyshire Peak District and Duffield just north of Derby, in a 1950s heritage Diesel Railcar.

Guests can ride in the passenger saloon and take in the beautiful views of the countryside whilst you’re driving.

Lunch will then be served in our Pullman Buffet at Wirksworth Station for yourself and one guest and additional guests may purchase off the menu. The afternoon allows you opportunity to get to grips with a large main line heritage diesel locomotive as you do the 18 mile return journey once more taking it in turns with your fellow experience guests.

A Guard's brake van is normally attached so that guests can ride behind the locomotive whilst you're driving, they can stand on the veranda whilst you’re going along in summer or have the wood-burning stove lit to keep warm in winter!

When can I go?

This experience is available on selected weekdays and weekends, throughout the year.

How long will my experience last?

This experience will last for approximately 6 hours.

How many people is this experience for?

This experience is for one person, Lunch is included for two people. There will be other people on the day.

Can I bring family and friends?

You are able to bring spectators on the day.

What else do I need to know?

The minimum age for this experience is 18 years old.

You must be able to climb in and out of the locomotive from ground level.

There are no qualifications required for this experience.

This is for a voucher entitling the holder to any of the activities supplied by Activity Superstore up to the value stated.

How will I receive my gift experience voucher?

On the basket page, you can select from the following delivery options:

• eVoucher: within 15 minutes ( Free ) 
• eVoucher: direct to recipient on a specific date ( Free ) 
• Royal Mail 1st class: 3-5 working days ( Free ) 
• Special Delivery: Next Day when ordered before 2pm Monday to Friday via DPD ( £7.99 )