Ever wondered what it’s like to be in control of a powerful steam locomotive? Now’s your chance to find out! Footplate Taster Sessions with 32424 Beachy Head, Britain's newest steam locomotive, are here!

For 1 hour, you’ll step into the heart of the action aboard this majestic engine, getting a first-hand feel of what it’s like to be part of the crew. It’s a day where every moment is an unforgettable adventure. Starting at Sheffield Park, you’ll have the rare opportunity to experience one of the most exciting additions to the steam railway world – 32424 Beachy Head – in action. With expert guidance from our experienced footplate crew, you’ll learn the ins and outs of operating this unique steam locomotive. Perfect for railway enthusiasts, thrill-seekers, or anyone who has dreamed of piloting a steam engine, these Footplate Taster Sessions are the ultimate hands-on experience. Book your session today, and prepare to feel the power of 32424 Beachy Head under your hands! https://www.bluebell-railway.com/special/beachy-head-footplate-tasters/

As part of our 2025 Diesel Gala, taking place from 4 to 6 April, we are offering three days of special diesel driver experiences featuring guest locomotives. On Saturday 29 March, participants can take the controls of Class 31 No. 31108; on Tuesday 1 April, ‘Peak’ No. 45108; and on Wednesday 2 April, No. 50015 Valiant.

Trips will involve a round trip between Chinnor and Princes Risborough. The locos will be working hard on the 1 in 100 between Thame Junction and Risborough – and even harder on the 1 in 68 of Chinnor Bank. Exciting stuff! All this will be under the friendly guidance of one of our experienced driving instructors. We are confident you will have a great time! Your session will begin with a safety briefing, followed by a familiarisation session with the locomotive to show how it works and how the controls operate. We'll get you used to starting and stopping the train safely along the seven-mile round trip of the line. You will actually get two trips in the cab—one as driver and the other as an observer. You can also bring along up to six guests for a free ride in the passenger coaches if arranged in advance – share the fun with family and/or friends! Your party is free to travel on the train on as many trips as they wish (five in all). In addition, you and your guests are welcome to stay for more trips along the line. Please discuss this with Chris via the email below. The price is £325 for each session, except for the last one of the day (which omits the observer ride), which is £270.

Evening silver service dining aboard the Bluebell Railway’s Golden Arrow train.

Bluebell Railway’s Golden Arrow train is the perfect setting for a special meal with friends or an intimate evening for two. With luxurious Pullman Cars Christine, Fingall, and Car 54, the train recreates the fabulous Golden Arrow which once linked London and Paris with the style and panache which made it one of the most glamorous and famous trains in the world. On board you will enjoy fine food and wine served to the standards of yesteryear. This premier dining service includes a three-course meal and travel on a steam-hauled train through the beautiful countryside of the Sussex Weald to East Grinstead. Your journey will last approximately 3 1/2 hours. A cup of tea or coffee at the end of your meal is included in the cost, and all other drinks may be purchased and paid for on the train. All Golden Arrow services begin and end at Sheffield Park Station and the Golden Arrow Dining will depart at 7:00 selected Saturday evenings. Browse the menu and book your tickets here: https://www.bluebell-railway.com/special/golden-arrow-evening-dining-2025/

Now Booking for 2025 Wealden Rambler Afternoon Tea services!

The initial dates for 2025 for our beloved Wealden Rambler Afternoon Tea Services at The Bluebell Railway are now open for reservations! Join us for a delightful afternoon tea experience as you travel through the picturesque Sussex countryside. Book now to secure your place on this charming journey and enjoy a timeless tradition in a beautiful setting. The return trip to East Grinstead from Sheffield Park is approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.

Savour a classic two-course roast dinner with all the trimmings.

Our premier Sunday lunch dining train. Boarding begins at 11:45, and our volunteer staff will serve a classic two-course roast dinner with all the trimmings at your table. A full bar service is available throughout the journey. The experience lasts for 2.5 hours, with passengers alighting at 14:15.

Climb aboard a train of historic carriages and enjoy a meal served on the move!

The North Norfolkman luxury dining train runs on selected lunchtimes. Enjoy a complimentary locally-produced drink on arrival – choose from ale, lager, cider or apple juice – all made within the County. Then, relax in the comfort of one of our dining cars built for British Railways in the 1950s or ’60s and boasting restored interiors of varnished wood and a distinctive upholstery moquette that was characteristic of the period. As your train steams gently from Sheringham to Holt and return, enjoy the changing vista of some of the County’s finest countryside coastal views whilst savouring a delicious meal, freshly prepared and cooked onboard. a will be served at your seat by the attentive team of waiters. A glass of house wine, beer or a soft drink to accompany your meal will be served at your table by the team of attentive waiters. The train will make two return journeys so you can enjoy your meal a leisurely pace and steam occasionally drifting past the window, you will be transported briefly back to a time when the pace of life was less hurried. Dining is very popular, so book early to avoid disappointment. Please note this service is not suitable for children under the age of 12. Trains are available to board from 12.00noon, departing at 12.25pm . You will arrive back in Sheringham around 3.10 – 3.30pm. ADVANCE BOOKING ESSENTIAL For further details: https://www.nnrailway.co.uk/portfolio-items/premier-lunch/

We’re offering you the chance to go on the footplate and join the crew as they take you on a full round trip of the line.

We’re offering you the chance to go on the footplate and join the crew as they take you on a full round trip of the line. You’ll get to watch what’s involved in operating one of our steam or diesel locomotives, as it hauls today’s passenger service. You’ll need to be physically fit and able to climb up into the cab and be able to stand for the duration of the journey, but you’ll be able to see first hand what it’s like for our volunteer crews. Please note, this is not a full Driver Experience and you wont be driving the train

As part of our 2025 Diesel Gala, taking place from 4 to 6 April, we are offering three days of special diesel driver experiences featuring guest locomotives. On Saturday 29 March, participants can take the controls of Class 31 No. 31108; on Tuesday 1 April, ‘Peak’ No. 45108; and on Wednesday 2 April, No. 50015 Valiant.

Trips will involve a round trip between Chinnor and Princes Risborough. The locos will be working hard on the 1 in 100 between Thame Junction and Risborough – and even harder on the 1 in 68 of Chinnor Bank. Exciting stuff! All this will be under the friendly guidance of one of our experienced driving instructors. We are confident you will have a great time! Your session will begin with a safety briefing, followed by a familiarisation session with the locomotive to show how it works and how the controls operate. We'll get you used to starting and stopping the train safely along the seven-mile round trip of the line. You will actually get two trips in the cab—one as driver and the other as an observer. You can also bring along up to six guests for a free ride in the passenger coaches if arranged in advance – share the fun with family and/or friends! Your party is free to travel on the train on as many trips as they wish (five in all). In addition, you and your guests are welcome to stay for more trips along the line. Please discuss this with Chris via the email below. The price is £325 for each session, except for the last one of the day (which omits the observer ride), which is £270.

Experience the thrill and nostalgia of the golden age of steam on our exclusive Footplate Taster Day at The Bluebell Railway!

Step into the boots of an engine driver or fireman and join our experienced crew for an unforgettable journey on the footplate of a magnificent steam locomotive. Whether you’re a lifelong rail enthusiast or looking for an extraordinary adventure, this hands-on experience offers a rare opportunity to learn the art of driving and firing a steam locomotive. Under expert guidance, you’ll get a chance to both drive and fire either 72 ‘Fenchurch’ or SECR O1 65 (subject to availability).

Step into the shoes of a diesel driver!

Our Diesel Driver experiences give you the opportunity to be at the controls for over the full length of our picturesque line between Sheringham and Holt. BRONZE DIESEL EXPERIENCE This experience gives you a taste of being a secondman and of driving during a return journey between Sheringham and Holt. Climb aboard a powerful diesel locomotive (on its own, without a train) for two 11 mile trips. You will alternate between being a secondman and of driving, spending 11 miles doing each and learning about the workings of the engine and the railway under the guidance of a fully qualified crew. The bronze experience is offered on several dates throughout the year usually starting at 09:45, 12:45 or 16.45. We are able to accommodate 2 participants on each session. Your experience begins at Sheringham with a welcoming drink and a slice of cake before participants join the driver and secondman in the cab of the locomotive. At the end of the session each participant is awarded a certificate as a souvenir of the experience. SILVER DIESEL EXPERIENCE Our silver diesel experience gives you the opportunity to have two complete round trips over the full length of our picturesque line working one of our magnificently-restored diesel locomotives at the head of a private train of passenger carriages between Sheringham and Holt. You will drive one trip and be secondman for the other, spending 11 miles doing each. You will learn about the workings of the engine and the operation of our railway under the guidance of our fully qualified crew, including the art of starting and stopping smoothly with a passenger train. The morning session begins at Sheringham at 9.00 where participants are welcomed with a bacon roll and mug of tea before meeting the engine crew and climbing into the cab for two full round trips to Holt and back. There’s then time for a light lunch before catching the train to Weybourne for a guided tour of the Engine and Carriage Sheds before returning to Sheringham. The session ends the presentation of a certificate as a souvenir of the day. Participants may bring up to six guests to spectate (they will not be able to ride in the cab) but they arrive at 11.00am travel in one of the carriages on the train, enjoy lunch and join the guided tour. Guests are charged at £25 each. Afternoon sessions start at 12.30 at Sheringham for participants and their guests. After checking in, you will travel by train to Weybourne to take a look behind the scenes on a tour of the Engine and Carriage Sheds. After travelling back to Sheringham, participants will meet the engine crew on the footplate followed by the chance to drive and be secondman on the locomotive during two return trips to Holt. Guests can ride in one of the carriages of the private train during the first of these trips and have free time in Sheringham while participants complete the second run. The afternoon ends with tea and cake for participants along with the presentation of a souvenir certificate. Guests are charged at £25 each. ADVANCED BOOKING ESSENTIAL For further details: https://www.nnrailway.co.uk/portfolio-items/diesel-driver-experience/

Back for 2025, our popular Murder Mystery events are ready to roll, with two exciting new shows available this year!

Embark on an unforgettable journey where mystery and fine dining intertwine, offering a unique experience – a murder mystery dinner aboard a steam train. The evening begins with pre-murder cocktails (not included in the price), setting the stage for an atmosphere shrouded in intrigue and suspense. These early moments are crucial, laying the groundwork for the enigmatic events that are about to unfold. As you sip your drink, observe the interactions around you – they could provide the first clues to unlocking the mystery. As the plot thickens, you'll witness a meticulously planned murder unfold before your very eyes. This marks the start of your adventure into the unknown, where every detail matters, and every character becomes a suspect. The transition from witness to detective is seamless as you board the majestic Pullman carriages, hauled by a steam locomotive, stepping back in time to an era of elegance and mystery. Seated comfortably, you’ll be presented with detective packs and clues alongside a sumptuous three-course meal. The immersive experience continues as the train steams through the High Weald of Sussex, building suspense as the thrilling investigation unfolds onboard. Your role as a detective is both challenging and exhilarating. Throughout the journey, you'll have the opportunity to cross-examine the surviving characters, piecing together their testimonies and searching for inconsistencies. Be vigilant, for amid the genuine leads are cunningly placed red herrings designed to throw you off the scent. Trust no one, as the murderer is among you, weaving lies and deceit to conceal their identity. The success of your investigation hinges on your ability to discern truth from falsehood, connect all the dots, and ultimately unmask the culprit. Book tickets via "The Company Upfront" using the details below: Phone: 01732 862353 Email: info@murder-party.co.uk Online: www.murder-party.co.uk

Now Booking for 2025 Wealden Rambler Afternoon Tea services!

The initial dates for 2025 for our beloved Wealden Rambler Afternoon Tea Services at The Bluebell Railway are now open for reservations! Join us for a delightful afternoon tea experience as you travel through the picturesque Sussex countryside. Book now to secure your place on this charming journey and enjoy a timeless tradition in a beautiful setting. The return trip to East Grinstead from Sheffield Park is approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.

Enjoy a classic meal of freshly battered cod and chips, served on our dining train.

Take your seat in our first-class dining carriage to enjoy a British classic of hearty fish, chips, and mushy peas from our local chippy, served onboard one of our heritage trains. Combining a family favourite with a delightful journey along our railway line, this dining experience promises a lunchtime you won’t forget in a hurry. To finish, indulge in a delicious dessert, and enjoy a drink from our onboard bar, which will be open throughout the trip. Please note: Due to the nature of this dining train, we are unable to accommodate any special dietary requirements.

Enjoy a three-course meal on the move as you turn detective and piece together the clues to catch the culprit!

Departing Sheringham at 7:00pm, one of our steam locomotives will haul the ‘The North Norfolkman’ luxury dining train carrying you on two round trips along the picturesque North Norfolk coastline to Weybourne and Holt. Enjoy a three-course meal on the move but keep your eye on the cast of suspicious characters that will join you for the journey! A drama unfolds as the evening continues and it is likely that a crime will be committed – possibly even a murder! You and your companions can turn detective and piece together the clues to finger the perpetrator. By the time coffee & mints are served someone will have solved the murder and the culprit will be unveiled on arrival back at Sheringham. Each train has a distinct theme and many diners choose to dress the part – this is encouraged but not compulsory. There’s a prize for the most successful sleuth but it’s up to you how seriously you take the investigations! ‘The North Norfolkman’ boasts an onboard bar selling a selection alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Dining is very popular, so book early to avoid disappointment. Please note this service is not suitable for children under the age of 12. Trains are available to board from 6.30pm, departing at 7.00pm. You will make two return journeys from Sheringham to Holt, arriving back in Sheringham at approximately 10.30pm. ADVANCE BOOKING ESSENTIAL For further details: https://www.nnrailway.co.uk/portfolio-items/murder-mystery-dining/

Our Diesel Footplate experiences are back for 2025 with a difference!

The experience is around 1 hour 30 mins in total, each participant will have an opportunity to work D4106 around Horsted Keynes, with an opportunity to work the diesel shunter to East Grinstead and back. Light refreshments and a hot drink will be provided for participants on the day from Horsted Keynes. Guests can purchase refreshments on the day. Book a Brake Van ride for your guests! There is a chance for your guests to travel in our Southern Railway brake van between Horsted Keynes and East Grinstead on your experience. This is an additional fee of £25 per person and can be booked via the button below (this is separate to booking the main Diesel Footplate Taster event). Please note: Participants must be 18+ or over to take part. Cancellation is 1 month & £10 admin fee if you cancel. Participants must be physically able to take part. Medical form must be submitted before event. Book your experience now: https://www.bluebell-railway.com/special/diesel-footplate-taster-day/

We’re offering you the chance to go on the footplate and join the crew as they take you on a full round trip of the line.

We’re offering you the chance to go on the footplate and join the crew as they take you on a full round trip of the line. You’ll get to watch what’s involved in operating one of our steam or diesel locomotives, as it hauls today’s passenger service. You’ll need to be physically fit and able to climb up into the cab and be able to stand for the duration of the journey, but you’ll be able to see first hand what it’s like for our volunteer crews. Please note, this is not a full Driver Experience and you wont be driving the train

Evening silver service dining aboard the Bluebell Railway’s Golden Arrow train.

Bluebell Railway’s Golden Arrow train is the perfect setting for a special meal with friends or an intimate evening for two. With luxurious Pullman Cars Christine, Fingall, and Car 54, the train recreates the fabulous Golden Arrow which once linked London and Paris with the style and panache which made it one of the most glamorous and famous trains in the world. On board you will enjoy fine food and wine served to the standards of yesteryear. This premier dining service includes a three-course meal and travel on a steam-hauled train through the beautiful countryside of the Sussex Weald to East Grinstead. Your journey will last approximately 3 1/2 hours. A cup of tea or coffee at the end of your meal is included in the cost, and all other drinks may be purchased and paid for on the train. All Golden Arrow services begin and end at Sheffield Park Station and the Golden Arrow Dining will depart at 7:00 selected Saturday evenings. Browse the menu and book your tickets here: https://www.bluebell-railway.com/special/golden-arrow-evening-dining-2025/

Savour a classic two-course roast dinner with all the trimmings.

Our premier Sunday lunch dining train. Boarding begins at 11:45, and our volunteer staff will serve a classic two-course roast dinner with all the trimmings at your table. A full bar service is available throughout the journey. The experience lasts for 2.5 hours, with passengers alighting at 14:15.

Relax and enjoy a traditional cream tea as you travel along the stunning coastal scenery!

Climb aboard a train of historic carriages hauled by one of our beautifully restored steam engines and enjoy a traditional afternoon Cream Tea served on the move. Relax, take in the scenery and savour delicious fruit scones, served with a generous portion of clotted cream, jam and pot of tea followed by a slice of freshly baked, homemade cake. Price includes travel and reserved seats aboard a steam train for the return journey from Sheringham to Holt and back. Trains usually depart from Sheringham station at 3.30pm and arrive back at approximately 4.40pm. ADVANCE BOOKING ESSENTIAL For further details: https://www.nnrailway.co.uk/portfolio-items/cream-tea-train/

Luncheon silver service dining aboard the Bluebell Railway’s Golden Arrow train.

Bluebell Railway’s Golden Arrow train is the perfect setting for a special meal with friends or an intimate dinner for two. With luxurious Pullman Cars Christine, Fingall, and Car 54, the train recreates the fabulous Golden Arrow which once linked London and Paris with the style and panache which made it one of the most glamorous and famous trains in the world. On board you will enjoy fine food and wine served to the standards of yesteryear. This premier dining service includes a three-course meal and travel on a steam-hauled train through the beautiful countryside of the Sussex Weald to East Grinstead. Your journey will last approximately 3 1/2 hours. A cup of tea or coffee at the end of your meal is included in the cost, and all other drinks may be purchased and paid for on the train. All Golden Arrow services begin and end at Sheffield Park Station and the Golden Arrow Luncheon will begin at 12:25 on selected Sunday afternoons. Browse the menu and book your tickets here: https://www.bluebell-railway.com/special/golden-arrow-luncheon-2025/