Elsecar Heritage Railway is delighted to offer you the chance to take control of one of our full size heritage industrial steam railway locomotives.

All steam engines had two crew; the driver and the fireman. We will give you an insight into the joy of driving and firing a steam engine as we welcome two delegates onto the footplate. This is a hands-on course, so you will drive for real and expect to get dirty as you shovel the coal, all under the supervision of our qualified crew. We even provide a boilersuit to keep you clean.

 

During the one hour course (two hour bookings are also welcome) you will experience the excitement of driving and firing a steam engine along the length of our line. Our challenging 1 in 37 gradient is an unforgettable highlight as you tackle a hill start and keep steam up!

 

With the smell of steam and hot oil, the heat from the fire and the sound and power of the engine, plus our welcoming crew; a fantastic experience on the footplate is guaranteed at Elsecar Heritage Railway. Guests are welcome to watch and take photographs too.

 

You will be accompanied and assisted by experienced staff throughout who will keep you safe, and answer all of your questions.

 

We run Steam Locomotive Footplate Experience Courses from Easter until Autumn, on Saturdays, Sundays and Mondays. They are very popular so hurry and book your place.

 

One hour course (shared with another delegate) - £139

Two hour course (or one hour for two delegates booked together) - £258

 

To start booking your place, please download and fill in this application form.

If you already have a voucher or gift certificate, please request a date for a course using the online request form.

Course administration can be contacted at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. - we look forward to welcoming you soon.
(please do not use the enquiries email for footplate correspondence)

 

All courses are subject to availability.
For more details including a detailed itinerary for the courses, please telephone: (01226) 610100 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
All courses are subject to EHR terms and conditions.
Please make all cheques payable to: Elsecar Heritage Railway Ltd.
Courses are limited to a maximum of two participants.
If necessary the Railway may postpone course dates without notice.