Become an Engine Driver for the Day

Ever wondered what it’s like at the sharp end of a steam locomotive? On the KWVR Footplate Experience, you’ll get properly hands-on, driving, firing, and taking a turn as guard, on one of Britain’s most famous heritage lines. The railway runs through Haworth (Brontë Country) and Oakworth (The Railway Children) on the way to Keighley, where we connect with the national rail network.

What can you expect?

A friendly, informal day with real railway work, under the supervision of our experienced, trained team. You’ll be part of a small group, so there’s time on the footplate (and time to take it all in).

You’ll get to!
  • Drive a complete round trip (supervised)
  • Fire a round-trip (learn how to keep your engine working!)
  • Spend a trip at the back of the train as the guard
  • Enjoy a round trip on the cushions and take in the journey

To keep everyone safe and comfortable:

  • Age: 18–75 and in good health. If you’re over 75, we can accept you with a letter from your GP.
  • Footwear: Stout footwear required—boots (ideally steel-toe cap) or walking shoes. No trainers on the engine.
  • What we provide: Overalls and gloves.
  • Guests: Bring up to one guest free of charge. Additional guests can be booked for £30 per person, which includes lunch, a guided tour, and a full day riding the rails.

What Does It Involve?

  • Meet your host at the start of the day, get kitted out with overalls, and enjoy a tea/coffee while we run through an essential safety briefing and how the railway operates.
  • With our team alongside you, each participant will rotate through driving, firing, and guarding across the day’s trips.
  • Drive a steam train for 9 miles, Fire a steam train for 9 miles, & Guard for 9 miles on a steam train
  • Plenty of photo opportunities along the railway throughout the day
  • A buffet lunch at The Old Parcels Office after the second trip for you and your guest*

*Additional guests can be booked for £30 per person.
*25% non refundable deposit to secure the booking. Full payment is required at least 6 weeks before the experience. 

£800 per person

The Footplate Experience offers a full, hands-on day on the railway and includes:

  • A full day as a driver, fireman and guard
  • One year’s membership of the KWVRPS, including the quarterly magazine Push and Pull
  • Three free travel days and the chance to get involved as an active member in the railway’s workings
  • Buffet lunch for you and your guest
  • Souvenir certificate

To enquire or make a booking, please email: bookings@kwvr.co.uk
Our team will be happy to confirm availability and guide you through the next steps.

PRICE – £800 per person
2026 dates

We are now taking bookings for selected 2026 dates. Places are limited and subject to availability.

Available dates:

  • April: 13, 17
  • May: 11, 22
  • June: 5, 12, 26
  • July: 3
How to book

To enquire or make a booking, please fill in this form – Booking Form

If you have any questions, please get in touch by emailing bookings@kwvr.co.uk
or calling 01535 645214. Our team will be happy to confirm availability and guide you through the next steps.

25% non refundable deposit to secure the booking. Full payment minimum of 6 weeks before the experience. 

Booking Form