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Advanced Course

Drive a steam engine

The Advanced Course is run on a one-to-one basis to ensure the participant receives maximum tuition from one of our expert instructors.

With assistance from the instructor, the participant will prepare the engine including cleaning the boiler tubes, smokebox, firebox, ashpan and brasswork. They will steam the engine including filling the boiler with water, lighting the fire, applying necessary lubrication, and ensuring all checks are completed before leaving the yard.

After a refresh of the controls, the participant will be given a longer set of coaches or freight wagons.

In addition to the instructor, a signalman will be in Kingsmere East Box, sending the train around the line, stations and sidings in different directions and amongst the passenger trains for the day.

Lunch and refreshments are included and up to six guests are invited for a ride on the train in the afternoon with the participant driving. A certificate is awarded on completion of the course.

After purchasing the course, you will be emailed further information and a booking reference which can be given as a gift. The Advanced Course costs £375.

The date of the course can be booked by you or the participant by calling 01425 471 415 or emailing shop@moorsvalleyrailway.co.uk.

BUY AN ADVANCED COURSE VOUCHER

Course itinerary

Times are approximate

9.00

  • Introduction to the instructor and inspection of the locomotive
  • Assist the instructor in preparing and steaming the locomotive, ensuring all checks are complete before leaving the yard

10.30

  • Attach coaches or wagons and have an introduction/refresh of the controls before progressing onto the main line
  • Obey signals to follow varied routes around the railway

12.30

  • Lunch and review of the morning session

13.00

  • Resume driving and receive further instruction as required

15.00

  • Invite up to six guests to have a ride on the train with the participant driving
  • Opportunity for photos with friends and family

16.00

  • Return to yard and assist with disposal of fire

Frequently Asked Questions

When are courses held?

Courses are typically held on weekends, based on the availability of instructors. Weekdays may be possible. Courses do not run over Easter and Summer holidays as the railway is busy with passengers!

Do I need previous experience?

No previous experience is required for the Standard Course, just an appreciation for the engineering and power of steam locomotives! All theoretical matters are dealt with as they arise, and you’ll be driving and firing a steam engine in no time!

What should I wear?

Overalls are recommended as engine driving can be dirty work! Engines get very hot and gloves will be provided.

What happens if it rains?

Courses still go ahead in the rain (some say it adds to the fun!). Waterproofs are available in the event of wet weather. Alternatively, if the forecast looks bad, you can re-arrange the date of your course (subject to availability) if you provide at least 72 hours notice.

Where can I park?

When arriving at Moors Valley, follow signs to the golf course and park in the golf course car park. Please make a note of your car registration so your parking can be validated.

Will I be allowed to drive unaccompanied?

Although it is hoped you will be driving and firing unassisted by the end of the day, for safety purposes, the instructor will travel with you in the support coach at all times.

Will I be able to drive at Moors Valley Railway once I have completed the course?

The course is designed to give you an appreciation of driving a steam locomotive, but it is not a qualification to drive at Moors Valley or at any other railway. However, some participants have gone on to gain further experience through formal training and assessment and are now part time drivers at the railway.

What if I need to cancel or re-arrange?

Should you need to cancel or re-arrange your experience, please provide at least 72 hours notice. If less than 72 hours notice is provided, the booking may be void and unable to be re-arranged.