Heritage Train Driving
Take the controls of a classic Diesel locomotive for a day.
Experience the Thrill of Newcastle Heritage Railways
Join us for unforgettable days immersed in railway history and hands-on driving experiences on our stunning heritage railways.
Newcastle Heritage Railways 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
Newcastle upon Tyne has one of the strongest railway heritages in Britain, closely connected with George Stephenson, early locomotive engineering and the development of the modern railway system. Today the wider North East remains one of the best regions in England for industrial railway history, preserved steam railways and family railway days out.
Train Driving Experiences
Family Train Days Out
Couples Railway Experiences
Best Train Driving Experiences
All Railways Directory
Why Newcastle Is One of Britain’s Great Railway Cities
Newcastle upon Tyne sits at the heart of British railway history. The wider North East played a major role in the birth of the railway age through coal transport systems, wagonways, locomotive engineering and the work of George Stephenson.
Today visitors can still explore preserved industrial railways, heritage steam operations and railway museums across Tyne and Wear, Gateshead, County Durham and Northumberland. Newcastle also makes an excellent base for family railway days out thanks to the strong concentration of preserved lines within easy driving distance of the city.
The railways featured on this page combine industrial railway heritage, preserved steam operations, scenic countryside journeys and restoration projects that showcase the North East’s railway legacy.
Experience the Magic of Railways near Newcastle
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
