Class 37 & Class 47 Driving Experiences
Experience classic British diesel traction with Rail Away Days. Choose the unmistakable English Electric character of Class 37 D6916 at Blaenavon, or the mainline Brush Type 4 power of Class 47s D1501 and 47367 at Chinnor.
Built for enthusiasts, gift buyers and serious railway fans, these experiences offer 4, 8 and 16 mile package options across two characterful heritage railway locations.
Class 37 Experience at Blaenavon
D6916 / 37216
D6916, later numbered 37216, is a classic British Rail Class 37 diesel-electric locomotive. The Class 37s are among the most recognisable diesel locomotives in Britain, famous for their distinctive English Electric sound, rugged appearance and long working lives.
For many enthusiasts, the appeal of a Class 37 is emotional as much as mechanical: the deep exhaust note, heavy-duty Co-Co bogies, purposeful cab and “tractor” reputation make it one of the great diesel icons of the British railway scene.
Pontypool & Blaenavon Railway
The Blaenavon setting gives this experience real atmosphere. This is a railway rooted in South Wales industrial history, surrounded by the landscape of coal, iron and heavy industry — exactly the sort of environment where a hard-working diesel feels at home.
The line is ideal for a Class 37 experience because it feels purposeful and authentic rather than polished and generic. For the enthusiast, that matters.
Class 47 Experiences at Chinnor
D1501 / 47402
D1501 is part of the Class 47 story: one of Britain’s most successful mainline diesel locomotive classes. Later known as 47402, it represents the era when Brush Type 4s became the everyday power behind passenger, parcels, charter and freight trains across the national network.
A Class 47 experience is all about smooth power, mainline presence and the feeling of handling a locomotive that helped define British Rail diesel operation for decades.
47367
47367 gives visitors another opportunity to experience the Class 47 family at Chinnor. These locomotives were built for serious mainline work, and their reputation comes from years of reliable service across passenger and freight duties.
For enthusiasts, 47367 offers that familiar Class 47 atmosphere: substantial, capable, and closely tied to the diesel era of British Rail.
The Chinnor Line
The Chinnor & Princes Risborough Railway runs through the Chilterns, giving the Class 47 experience a very different character from Blaenavon. It feels more like a preserved country branch with mainline connections, ideal for enjoying the scale and smoothness of Brush Type 4 power.
Choose Your Driving Package
Each locomotive experience can be offered in three simple mileage tiers. This makes the page easy to understand for gift buyers while still giving enthusiasts a clear upgrade path.
4 Mile Experience
A focused introduction to classic diesel locomotive driving. Ideal for first-time visitors, gifts, or anyone who wants the thrill of taking the controls without committing to the longest package.
8 Mile Experience
A stronger enthusiast option with more time to settle into the locomotive, understand the controls and enjoy the rhythm of diesel driving.
16 Mile Experience
The premium choice for serious railway fans. More distance, more time in the cab and the most complete experience of the locomotive’s character.
Which Locomotive Should You Choose?
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Choose Class 37 D6916 if you want sound and character.
The Class 37 is ideal for anyone drawn to English Electric traction, industrial railway atmosphere and the famous “tractor” soundtrack. -
Choose Class 47 D1501 if you want mainline diesel heritage.
The Class 47 is perfect for those who remember British Rail passenger and freight workings and want to experience a true Brush Type 4. -
Choose 47367 if you want another Class 47 option at Chinnor.
47367 gives the Chinnor offer more depth and appeal, especially for Class 47 followers and repeat visitors. -
Choose the 16 mile package for the best enthusiast value.
For railway fans, the longer package is likely to feel the most satisfying because it allows more time to absorb the locomotive and route.
Ready to experience classic British diesel power?
Start with the locomotive that interests you most, then choose the mileage package that suits the occasion.
Driving Heritage, Creating Memories
At Rail Away Days, we offer an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the fascinating world of heritage railways. Our driving experiences allow enthusiasts and novices alike to take the controls of vintage locomotives, guided by our expert instructors. This unique adventure not only offers a thrilling ride but also shares the rich history behind these magnificent trains, creating lasting memories for all who join us. Discover the joy of keeping railway heritage alive with Rail Away Days!
We connect experiencers with train operators and events companies.