What Can I Expect

East Somerset Railway diesel train driving experiences! The Diesel Multiple Unit taster gives you 1.5 hours of fun driving a DMU along the mainline track of this delightful heritage railway near Shepton Mallet.

This experience is all about harking back to the 1960s, to an age when diesel was taking over from steam. East Somerset has a classic Class 108 Diesel Multiple Unit (DMU) L231 set up, made up of a power car and a driving trailer.

This type of DMU was designed for use on short to medium-distance cross country routes rather than suburban work. The driver trailer comprising the driver cab and passenger seat was built in 1960. The power car, which weighs 29 tons and is 58ft long dates from the same year.

Amazingly, both were in active service until 1993. Since then a lot of time, energy, skill and love has been spent restoring the duo back to its former 1960s glory. And now you get the chance to drive it!

You'll meet the diesel train and your driver at Cranmore, which is the main base for the East Somerset Railway. Of course, you'll be ‘up front' where the best view is for the duration of your experience.

Riding with the driver in the cab, you'll see what they do. After a short observation ride, it's over to you. Driver's key and controls into position. Lights. Vacuum pressure in the braking system. Deadman's handle. First gear engaged. Power, release and go!

Give it a little toot of the horn and you're rolling. Change gear (who knew diesel trains ever had gears?) and keep an eye on the brake pressure. And when you come to a stop, let's see if you can make it a smooth halt rather than a jerky one.

These fantastic diesel train driving days at East Somerset Railway are hugely popular, so make sure you book well in advance. And if you need any help with dates and things, we're just a phone call (or chat, or email) away!

When Is It Available

• Selected dates during the normal running season
• Sessions are generally 10:45-12:15, 12:15-13:45 or 15:15-16:45 (finish times are approximate)
• Due to popularity it is recommended you book well in advance to avoid disappointment

Suitable For

• Minimum age 16
• A good, general level of health and fitness is required
• Participants must be able to climb up and down from the footplate, as well as operate heavy controls

Spectators

• You will receive two complimentary day rover vouchers for family and friends to use on the day of your course
• Your family and friends need to show their vouchers at the Ticket Office and they will be exchanged for day rover tickets
• Additional day rover tickets can be purchased on the day if required