Diesel Driver Experiences
Ever dreamed of taking the controls of a real diesel train? Now’s your chance!
Step into the cab, take the controls and experience the thrill of driving one of our historic diesel trains through the beautiful East Sussex countryside.
Our Diesel Driver Experiences normally take place on Saturdays or Sundays when the railway is closed to the public, giving you the chance to enjoy an exclusive experience with one of our highly experienced drivers.
You’ll spend up to 7 runs travelling up and down our one-mile line, learning how to handle the train, control its speed and bring it safely to a stop. And, of course, there will be plenty of opportunities for some fantastic photographs along the way!
You’ll be one-to-one with your experienced driver throughout the experience, so there’s plenty of time to ask questions and get a real insight into what it takes to drive these fascinating machines.
And there’s more...
As part of your experience, you’ll receive:
A Diesel Driver Experience certificate
A Lavender Line key ring and other goodies
One year’s membership of the Lavender Line Preservation Society
Plenty of opportunities for photographs and memories that will last a lifetime
You must be 18 or over to take part in our driving experiences.
Bring your family and friends
Your friends and family are very welcome to come along and ride on the train while you take the controls. Just let us know in advance how many people you’ll be bringing.Larger groups may incur an additional charge, and catering can also be arranged. Please contact us for a quotation.
Choose Your Experience
Class 205 ‘Thumper’ – 1133
£350
Take the controls of our iconic Class 205 ‘Thumper’ — a train with a real connection to the Lavender Line.
Built in 1962, 1133 is known to have run on the line before it closed to passengers in 1969. Today, this much-loved unit has been lovingly restored and maintained by our dedicated team.
Your experience begins with three initial runs at lower speed, giving you the opportunity to get familiar with the controls, learn how the train responds and practise braking.
After a well-earned tea or coffee break, it’s time to turn things up a little as you progress to faster runs.
You’ll be in control of the train for the entire experience.
Class 73 ‘73140’ + Coaching Stock
£400
Get behind the controls of our versatile Class 73, 73140.
Built by English Electric in 1966, 73140 enjoyed a long career on Southern metals and is now ready to give you the opportunity to experience what it’s like to handle this impressive locomotive.
For this experience, 73140 will be coupled to our regular service coaching stock, comprising a Mk1 BCK coach and a Class 101 DMU trailer car.
On the northbound runs, you’ll take control of the locomotive’s power and brakes from the rear cab while a guard keeps watch from the front of the train.
Then, on the southbound runs, it’s your turn to take full control of the train.
It’s a fantastic opportunity to experience the power and versatility of a classic Southern locomotive from the driving cab.
Class 73 ‘73140’ + CIG ‘1497’ in Full Push-Pull Mode
£600
Our ultimate diesel driving experience — and something we believe is totally unique in the UK!
For the ultimate experience, take control of Class 73 73140 and three CIG vehicles, including 1497, operating in full push-pull mode.
CIG 1497 has an incredible history. It entered service in 1971 and remained in service until 2010, working throughout its life on the Southern Region of British Rail, Network SouthEast and South West Trains.
It finished its working life on the Lymington–Brockenhurst branch, where it was one of the last two slam-door trains in regular service in the South of England.
And now you can experience this remarkable combination from the driving cab.
For the northbound runs, you’ll take the controls from the cab of 73140.
Then comes the really exciting part...
You’ll move to the driving cab of the CIG, where you’ll remotely control 73140 as you drive the train southbound in full push-pull mode.
Two driving cabs. One complete train. One unforgettable experience.
Ready to take the controls?
Whether you’re a lifelong railway enthusiast, a diesel fan or simply looking for a truly memorable day out, our Diesel Driver Experiences offer the chance to do something very few people ever get to experience:
Take the controls of a real historic diesel train and drive it yourself.
Choose your experience and get in touch with the Lavender Line to book your day.
To book, please email us at enquiries@lavender-line.co.uk