Footplate Rides
Experience the thrill of steam with a Footplate Ride at The Bluebell Railway!
Step onto the footplate of a working steam locomotive and experience the power, heat, and excitement of steam travel like never before! Our brand-new Footplate Ride experience offers a unique opportunity to ride on the footplate between Sheffield Park and East Grinstead and back, immersing yourself in the world of the footplate crew as you travel through the stunning High Weald countryside.
Available sessions – May:
Saturday 3rd – A turn: 73082 | Sunday 4th – A turn: 73082 | Monday 5th – A turn: 73082
Saturday 10th – A turn: 73082 & B turn: 80151 | Sunday 11th – A turn: 73082 & B turn: 80151
Saturday 17th – A turn: 73082 & B turn: 80151 | Sunday 18th – A turn: 73082 & B turn: 80151
Saturday 24th – A turn: 73082 & B turn: 80151 | Sunday 25th – A turn: 73082 & B turn: 80151 | Monday 26th – A turn: 73082 & B turn: 80151
Saturday 31st – A turn: 34059 & B turn: 80151
Available sessions – June:
Sunday 1st – A turn: 34059
Saturday 7th – A turn: 80151 | Sunday 8th – A turn: 80151
Saturday 14th – A turn: 80151 | Sunday 15th – A turn: 80151
Saturday 21st – A turn: 34059 | Sunday 22nd – A turn: 34059
Saturday 28th – A turn: 34059 | Sunday 29th – A turn: 34059
Feel the heat from the firebox and the smell of the steam as you watch as the crew expertly work the locomotive. Along the way, you’ll pass through Sharpthorne Tunnel — the longest tunnel in UK railway preservation — before arriving at East Grinstead, where the engine will turn for the return journey.
What is included in this unforgettable experience:
- One round trip on the footplate
- Unlimited travel on our heritage railway for the day
- A rare opportunity to ride with the crew
Spaces are limited, so don’t miss your chance — book now!
