Steam Engineman Course Taster

About Us

The West Somerset Railway offers a range of one day and two day courses to realise your ambition and make your long held dreams become reality.

Experience the feeling of working steam locomotives as you join the team on the footplate, shovel coal into the firebox, blow the whistle, open the regulator and feel the power.

Treat someone special (even yourself) to the thrill of a lifetime learning what it feels like to be a real fireman and engine driver. A really special present or excellent Corporate Hospitality.

With twenty miles of stunning Somerset countryside and coastal scenery, and challenging gradients there is something for everyone from the novice to the experienced enthusiast.

Our Steam Engineman Courses are designed for moderately fit men and women (over 18) (you need to be able to climb up and descend from the locomotive cab) to experience aspects of the railway unseen by many passengers. Depending on your choice of course you will learn how to prepare a locomotive, the principles of working a steam locomotive, signalling, braking, safety, driving and firing. Guided by an experienced West Somerset Railway Instructor you will haul a train of coaches or freight wagons along part of the entire longest preserved railway in the country.

Enjoy a real treat yourself or give the perfect surprise gift Voucher.

Please see our SEC Accommodation List for establishments who serve an early breakfast.

When Steam Engineman Courses are held, the Railway does not always operate a public service so buffets and shops may be closed to the public. Friends of participants are, however, welcome to visit station areas and to take photographs etc.

Please note: Only course participants may travel on the train.

Train timings given in the programme are approximate and may be subject to change due to operational requirements. In particular the finish time should be regarded as approximate. Gaps in the above times are to facilitate of operational moves.

A half day practical introduction to the mysteries of the Steam Engine using the Bishops Lydeard to Norton Fitzwarren section (where the West Somerset Railway meets with the mainline).

You will experience using the regulator and firing the locomotive.

There is only a locomotive on this course - no wagons or coaches are used.

The course starts at Bishops Lydeard signal box at either 09.15 or 13.15 and takes between three and four hours.

Also included with this course are two Rover tickets so you can enjoy a days travel on the railway at your leisure.