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Footplate Thursdays – Every Thursday in August

Experience the railway from the driver's perspective!

Ever wondered what it's like to stand on the footplate of a working steam locomotive? This August, join us every Thursday for a unique behind-the-scenes experience and enjoy a 2-mile round trip alongside the locomotive crew.

This is a rare chance to get up close to a working steam locomotive in action, experiencing the sights, sounds and atmosphere from the heart of the engine as you travel between Woody Bay Station and Killington Lane (approximately 20 minutes).

Footplate rides operate alongside our standard Thursday timetable, with one footplate place available on each train service. As spaces are extremely limited, advance booking is strongly recommended. Any remaining places will be available on the day, on a first come first served basis.

Footplate Thursdays will be available on the following dates, the 6th, 13th, 20th and 27th of August.

 

Ticket Price

£42.50 per person

Only one footplate place is available per train service.

CLICK HERE TO PRE-BOOK YOUR FOOTPLATE RIDE

Your ticket includes:

  • A footplate ride on your chosen train service.
  • A safety briefing with the locomotive crew.
  • A photo opportunity with the steam locomotive.
  • An all-day travel ticket, allowing you to enjoy unlimited travel in our standard-class carriages for the rest of the day.

 

What to Wear

For your comfort and safety, we recommend bringing:

  • Cotton overalls or clothing you don't mind getting marked (avoid polyester, as it can melt).
  • Layers to suit changing weather conditions.
  • An old coat if rain or strong winds are forecast.
  • Strong boots or sturdy shoes (steel toe-cap safety boots are preferable).
  • A camera to capture your experience and photos with the locomotive.

 

Travelling with Family & Friends

Family and friends are welcome to travel on the same services but must purchase standard travel tickets. They will travel in the passenger coaches behind the locomotive while you enjoy your footplate experience.

CLICK HERE TO PRE-BOOK STANDARD TRAVEL TICKETS

 

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Dates & Times

Thursday 6th August Buy Tickets
Thursday 13th August Buy Tickets
Thursday 20th August Buy Tickets
Thursday 27th August Buy Tickets

Footplate Ride Terms & Conditions

  • Participants must be 18 years of age or over.
  • No alcohol must be consumed within 9 hours of your scheduled footplate ride.
  • Participants must be able to climb several vertical steps and stand unaided for the duration of the journey on a moving footplate.
  • A safety briefing will be given before departure, and all instructions from the locomotive crew must be followed at all times.
  • The footplate is a safety-critical working environment. The locomotive crew may refuse or terminate a ride if they believe it is unsafe for a participant to continue. Their decision is final.
  • By taking part, you agree to follow all safety guidance provided throughout the experience.
  • Please advise us in advance of any medical conditions or accessibility requirements that may affect your visit.
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