If, as a young child you once dreamt of being able to drive a real steam engine then you will be glad to know that it is never too late to make dreams come true.
The Bure Valley Railway is now able to offer a range of one or two day courses designed to get you behind the regulator of one of our unique narrow gauge locomotives.
The driver experience courses which we operate are designed to enable any physically fit ladies and gentlemen over the age of eighteen to experience the aspects of running a railway, which most of our passengers are unaware of.
Depending on which course you choose, you will learn about the principles on which a steam locomotive works.
ONE DAY COURSE
Both 1 Day and 2 Day courses include a buffet lunch at Aylsham and there are no hidden extras to pay.
The 1 Day Steam Locomotive Driving Course offers an ideal introduction to the mysteries of the steam engine and provides ample opportunities for you to have a go at both light engine and passenger train type operation.
TWO DAY COURSE
The more detailed 2 Day Steam Locomotive Driving Course provides participants with a greater degree of information about the workings of the steam engine and its associated equipment, as well as providing an insight into the operation of our busy railway. All of this theory is backed up with practical demonstrations and plenty of 'hands on' experience.
ADVANCED COURSE
The Advanced Course is designed to give further practical experience to those who have completed either the One or Two Day Courses. This course includes 18 miles at the regulator, hauling a double headed, empty coaching stock train.
GOLD COURSE
The Gold Driver Experience Course is a one day course that is designed to give further practical experience to those who have completed the one day advanced course or for those who want one-to-one tuition from an instructor. You will have 36 miles at the controls.
If you, or someone you know, would like to put themselves on the footplate of a real engine send a S.A.E to the address below and we will send you further details, or click the link to the right.
Take a stroll with 'Solemates' on May 28th from Aylsham to Wroxham Via Oxnead Hall, Coltishall and Belaugh, before arriving at Wroxham for a train journey back to Aylsham, where a cream tea will await you.
