What a fantastic 1hour footplate experience I had last Sunday, Driving a steam train up and down the line, shovelling coal into the boiler (which is quite hard and very hot work) The staff are all very knowledgeable and helpful, A very special thanks to Maria (Fireman)and George (Driver) for making this a very memorable day, Would love to do it again when the new line extension is open, Hope to see you all again,
Visited September 2016
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Would like to thank all you guys for the most unbelievable day my husband has had for a long time. I think he really thought he was 12 again. It might have been the longest 2 hours for me, but it was well worth it just to see that big smile he had on his face for the rest of the day. Thanks again. X
Visited June 2016
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"Steam Train Experience"
Have driven by the motorway signs countless time but having been given a steam train driving experience present for my birthday last Sunday I actually visited. The Heritage centre itself is compact but lovingly run with no entry fee. A super place for a day out for all the family in the middle of beautiful countryside and a wealth of history to discover.
But the main purpose of my visit was to drive a steam engine! Getting up close to them and experiencing a blast from the past was truly amazing. I got a real sense of just how much passion and dedication has gone into restoring these beasts and to bringing back this disused line to life.
As a child I lived by a railway and well remember the thrill of having a wave returned by drivers of the south coast express steam trains and the screech of their whistle as the train wooshed under the footbridge, emitting clouds of sulphurous smoke! Little did I imagine that half a century later I'd be spending over an hour on the footplate, shovelling coal into the ravenous furnace, opening and closing the regulator which controls the speed, deafening everyone with the whistle as well as applying the brakes! Protective overalls and gloves are provided. From the ticket clerk to the engine drivers, all are volunteers, so friendly and helpful with so much knowledge and fascinating tales to tell. Until you get onto the engine and underway it's difficult to appreciate just what's involved in running these trains and the physical hardships endured by generations of engine drivers. Speed or distance doesn't matter as being in control of hundreds of tons of iron and steel moving along the rails while standing inches from a raging inferno and pressurised steam certainly got my adrenaline rushing! You don't have to be physically fit to enjoy this experience as they will do their best to make adaptations. We even got to ride in the carriages before I stepped onto the footplate. And it was great to see a woman taking a full part in running the engines. Many thanks to you all for making my steam train experience one to truly cherish. I can thoroughly recommend the course and there's plenty for the rest of the family to do while you drive the train.
Visited April 2016
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“An experience not to be missed”
I bought this for my husband's 60th birthday and he said it was a great experience. Full hands on training and driving experience. The driver and fireman were both knowledgeable and friendly. All the staff work voluntary and strive to make it a memorable occasion, having photographs and videos taken with the participants. The heritage centre next door was good too. A great day out.
Visited October 2015
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“Excellent Experience”
I had a diesel driving experience at the Elsecar Heritage Railway and it was a fantastic experience. Aside from enjoying the experience immensely, the staff were really friendly and helpful and the surroundings were absolutely delightful. You can look around the sheds and the small on-site museum to learn more of the origins of this well preserved railway. Currently, the railway has one mile of track but this is being extended by another mile shortly. A great experience and a great day out. Recommended.
Visited October 2015
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“The best experience I have had”
I did the Steam Driving experience and it was great and really good value for money. The people looking after us were very friendly and knowledgeable. The locomotive was easy to understand and behaved most of the time. Hard work getting the coal in but all part of the fun of the day, the lady firing with me knew her job and kept us going.
Visited September 2015
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“Footplate experience”
Bought my Dad a footplate experience. Wow! The whole experience from being initially greeted and welcomed through to finish was amazing thanks to all the dedicated volunteers. My Dad was on a steam loco with another gentleman and took turns to fire and drive with a brilliantly witty pair, Tim the driver and Andy the fireman, who made the whole experience an absolutely enjoyable and unforgettable day. Well worth every penny and would certainly recommend. Will be returning at some point to undertake for myself. Thank you all for an amazing day. Will definitely contact Elsecar directly to book next time.
Visited September 2015
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“Big Boys Day Out!”
I had a steam train driving experience bought for me and from start to finish it was brilliant. The staff and footplate crew at Elsecar are friendly, helpful and knowledgeable and do all they can to make sure that you have a great time. Driving and firing the saddle tank loco was totally hands on from the start and a real thrill. There is ample parking and the whole heritage site to explore as a bonus. Partners can attend and take loads of platform and lineside snaps and they even get a free tea or coffee on arrival. Highly recommended.
Visited September 2015
