01/09/2026
DRIVE 60163 TORNADO AT SWANAGE RAILWAY!
It’s been 12 years since Tornado last visited Swanage Railway and this autumn, not only is she coming back, but you could actually take the regulator and drive her yourself!
Built in 2008, 60163 Tornado has become one of Britain’s best-known steam locomotives, appearing on both the big and small screen, including BBC’s Top Gear and Paddington 2.
She’s also no ordinary steam locomotive , Tornado has completed test runs at 100mph, proving that steam still has what it takes to haul heavy trains at high speed.
Following our Autumn Steam Gala, we’re offering two very special opportunities to get behind the regulator:
🚂 MONDAY & FRIDAY – FULL LINE DRIVER EXPERIENCE | £799
Take Tornado over the whole Swanage Railway – Swanage to Norden and return.
Experience the gradients and character of our full line from the footplate of a main line express steam locomotive, under the guidance of our experienced crew.
TUESDAY & THURSDAY – NORDEN DRIVER EXPERIENCE | £599
Take the regulator for a return journey between Norden Rail Road Interchange and the boundary with Network Rail, with around 30 minutes on the footplate.
Both experiences also include a Swanage Railway gift bag, framed certificate and Driver Experience mug as a lasting reminder of your day.
This is a genuinely rare opportunity to drive one of Britain’s most famous steam locomotives and with Tornado not having visited Swanage since 2014, it’s going to be a very special few days.
Places are extremely limited, so book early to avoid missing out.
If you’ve already booked a Tornado Driver Experience with us, don’t worry, we’ll be contacting you directly with details of the new options and arrangements.
https://www.swanagerailway.co.uk/events/view/tornado-driver-experience
Whether it’s the ultimate gift for a steam enthusiast or the chance to fulfil a lifelong ambition… this is your opportunity to drive Tornado!
