Driver Experiences
2026
We are delighted to announce that our much-loved Diesel Driver Experiences are returning for 2026.
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Step into the driver’s seat and take control of one of our resident Class 47 diesel locomotives for a unique round trip from Dereham to Wymondham Abbey and back – covering a total of 22 miles of railway!
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Experience Options
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The Light Engine (Joint) - Half Day - £360 per person
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Perfect for sharing with a friend, this experience gives you the chance to take on the two key roles aboard a diesel locomotive.
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You will interchange between being a secondman and driving, spending 11 miles doing each. Throughout the whole experience you will be learning about the locomotive and the railway, all whilst under the supervision of our fully competent crew.
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​The Light Engine (Joint) is offered over a number of days across the year. We are able to accommodate 2 people per session.
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Your experience begins at Dereham Station, where we ask you to arrive 30 minutes before your booked time. You’ll be welcomed with a complimentary drink and slice of cake in our Tea Room while our crew give you a full safety briefing.
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At the end of the session, you’ll be presented with a personalised certificate, signed by your driver instructor, as a lasting memento.
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Please note: This experience is limited to participants only – additional guests cannot be accommodated in the cab.
​The Light Engine (Solo) - Half Day - £660 (+ £15 for a companion*)
For the ultimate hands-on experience, take full control of the locomotive on your own round trip!
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​​Your experience will start with an inspection and starting of the locomotive. From there you will drive a total of 22 miles on a round trip from Dereham to Wymondham Abbey and back. Throughout the whole experience you will be learning about the locomotive and the railway, all whilst under the supervision of our fully competent crew.
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​The Light Engine (Solo) is offered over a number of days across the year. We are only able to accommodate 1 person per session.
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​Your experience will start off at Dereham Station, where we ask you to arrive no later than 30 minutes before your booked slot. You will be offered a complimentary drink & slice of cake from our Tea Room whilst you receive your safety talk from our crew.
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​After the experience you will be presented with a certificate showing the locomotive that you have driven and signed by the driver instructor.
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*Participants may bring one companion (£15 supplement) to travel in the cab and observe the journey.
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​Available 2026 Dates & Times - Any dates/time in Red are not available
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Saturday 21st March (09:30am & 01:00pm)
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Saturday 25th April (09:30am & 01:00pm)
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Saturday 30th May (09:00am)
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Saturday 20th June (09:00am)
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Saturday 18th July (09:00am)
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Saturday 15th August (09:00am)
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Saturday 26th September (09:00am)
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Saturday 10th October (09:30am & 01:00pm)
Time stated is the departure time, please ensure that you arrive at Dereham Station a minimum of 30 minutes before.
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How to book?
To book please email us at info@mnr.org.uk​
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​‘Well-being’ Information: There is no upper age limit for Driver Experience, but participants should be able to climb a short set of steps/ladder to get into the cab of the locomotive and their eyesight (with glasses if usually worn) should be up to the required standard to drive a car. Furthermore, please ensure that appropriate footwear, steel toe capped boots, and clothing is worn during the experience.
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Driver Experiences - Terms & Conditions
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Full Terms & Conditions for our Driver Experiences can be found here