About Us
The West Somerset Railway in partnership with the Diesel & Electric Preservation Group offer a one day course to realise your ambition to drive a Heritage Diesel Locomotive and so make long term held dreams a reality.
Experience the feel of a working Class 33 diesel electric locomotive as you join the Driver in the cab to take the seat and drive the Heritage Diesel Locomotive.
Treat someone special (even yourself!) to the thrill of a lifetime learning what it feels like to be a real Diesel Driver. With twenty miles of stunning West Somerset countryside and coastal scenery there is something for everyone from novice to enthusiast.
Our Diesel Engineman courses are designed for moderately fit men or women aged 18 years or over who will experience aspects of our railway operations unseen by our many passengers. On your course you will learn about your diesel locomotive and how to drive it safely in service.
Guided by an experienced Diesel & Electric Preservation Group Driver you will haul a former British Railways Goods Brake Van along part of the longest standard gauge Heritage Railway in the country.
Ticket Price
Diesel Engineman Course - Full Payment £295.00
Diesel Engineman Course - Deposit £100.00
Schedule
Stage One
Starting from Williton
08:30 – 08.45 Arrive Williton. Tea/coffee.
09.00 Safety brief
09.15 Tour of Williton Diesel Depot and locomotive preparation
10:00 Depart Williton for Minehead
10.50 Arrive at Minehead, pick up Heritage Freight Train
11.10 Depart Minehead for Bishops Lydeard
12.55 Arrive Bishops Lydeard
Lunch (as fits in with duties)
13.10 Depart Bishops Lydeard for Minehead
14.50 Arrive Minehead, stable Heritage Freight Train
15.40 Depart Minehead for Williton
16.10 Arrive Williton and Stable locomotive
16:20- 16:45 Tea/coffee.
Final thoughts
During trips you will drive one way and be the second man for the other; riding in the Guards Van when not on the footplate. Maximum of four participants for each course.
Please note: Only course participants may travel in the Guards Van.
During trips you will drive one way and be the second man for the other; riding in the train when not on the footplate.
Please note: Only course participants may travel in the Train.