Heritage Train Driving
Take the controls of a classic Diesel locomotive for a day.
Experience the Thrill of Heritage Railways near Chester
Join us for unforgettable days immersed in railway history and hands-on driving experiences on our stunning heritage railways.
Chester Heritage Railway Experiences
Immerse yourself in the thrill of heritage railway driving.
Family Railway Trips
Explore the scenic routes with expert guides and unique insights.
Flexible Experience Packages
Customise your railway journey to fit your interests and schedule, or as a gift
Chester is a superb base for railway days out across North Wales, Mid Wales and the North West. From the Dee Valley at Llangollen to Bala Lake, Welshpool’s rural narrow gauge railway and the larger East Lancashire Railway, Chester gives visitors a strong mix of scenic, family-friendly and enthusiast railway days out.
Train Driving Experiences
Family Train Days Out
Couples Railway Experiences
Best Train Driving Experiences
All Railways Directory
Why Chester Works Well for Railway Days Out
Chester sits in a strong position for railway days out because it naturally connects the North West with North Wales. Visitors can reach scenic Welsh heritage railways, family-friendly narrow gauge journeys, larger preserved lines and countryside steam trips without needing to travel deep into one region only.
The featured railways give Chester visitors a broad mix: the Dee Valley route at Llangollen, lakeside narrow gauge scenery at Bala, Mid Wales countryside at Welshpool & Llanfair, and a larger heritage railway experience at East Lancashire Railway.
Experience the Magic of Railways near Chester
At Rail Away Days, we offer unparalleled heritage railway driving experiences that take you on an unforgettable journey through history and nostalgia. Our dedicated team shares a passion for preserving the charm of steam and vintage trains, providing you with hands-on opportunities to drive iconic locomotives. Whether you're a train enthusiast or simply seeking a unique adventure, our experiences are tailor-made for all. Join us in celebrating the legacy of rail travel!
Why Choose Rail Away Days?
Experience the Golden Age of British Rail Travel
Welcome to Railawaydays — your gateway to unforgettable heritage railway adventures across the UK. Whether you’re a lifelong rail enthusiast, a family looking for a unique day out, or simply someone who loves the romance and nostalgia of classic British trains, our experiences bring the past to life in a truly memorable way.
Step aboard beautifully preserved locomotives, enjoy scenic journeys through historic landscapes, and immerse yourself in the sights, sounds and stories of Britain’s railway heritage.
With simple online booking and a growing calendar of special events and excursions, it’s never been easier to plan your perfect railway day out.
Now with Seven company Locomotives, including a Class 37 and 47's all driver experiences can be catered for!
Authentic Experiences
Engage in genuine railway driving on historic locomotives.
Expert Guidance
Learn from seasoned professionals with decades of railway experience, driving Classic British Locomotives
Unforgettable Memories
Create cherished memories with a one-of-a-kind railway adventure.
What Our Customers Say About Us
Hear from our satisfied railway driving experience participants.
Samantha L.
An unforgettable experience, I felt like a real driver!
David M.
Incredible day out, highly recommend for train enthusiasts.
Emily R.
Riding a steam train was a dream come true!
James T.
Exceptional experience, the staff were knowledgeable and friendly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Your questions answered about our Heritage Railway experiences.
What age can participants start driving?
Participants must be at least 16 years old to drive a heritage locomotive under supervision.
Do I need any prior experience?
No prior experience is necessary; our expert trainers provide guidance throughout the driving experience.
What should I wear for the experience?
We recommend wearing comfortable clothing and sturdy footwear suitable for outdoor activities.
Is there a weight limit for participants?
Yes, due to safety regulations, participants should not exceed 18 stone (114 kg).
How long does the experience last?
Each driving experience lasts approximately two hours, including a briefing and driving time.
Can spectators watch while I drive?
Yes, we welcome spectators to enjoy the experience, providing they remain in designated viewing areas.
Embark on Your Railway Adventure Today
Join us for an unforgettable heritage railway experience. Book your driving experience now and make memories that last a lifetime!
Looking for a different type of gift? Why not check out our Helicopter flight gifts and experiences
