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Class 55, 55019 Driver Experiences

Drive the Legendary Class 55 55019 Royal Highland Fusilier at Great Central Railway!

Great Central Railway is thrilled to offer an extraordinary opportunity to drive the renowned Class 55 55019 Royal Highland Fusilier. This classic diesel locomotive, owned by the Deltic Preservation Society (DPS). Drive, under professional instruction, one of the legendary Deltic locos on our double-track main line. The original fleet of 22 locos dominated express passenger services on the East Coast Main Line from the early 1960s until the arrival of the High Speed Train in the late 1970s. Now, you can experience the thrill of driving this legendary machine, with only two exclusive slots available. Join us at our Loughborough Central Station for an unforgettable adventure!

Drive the Class 55 55019 Royal Highland Fusilier: Command this powerful Deltic over a 16-mile journey, feeling the power and history beneath your hands.

Welcome Briefing: Start your day with a warm welcome and enjoy tea or coffee with your guests.

Introductory Film: Watch an introductory film to get you ready for the experience ahead.

Lunch for You and Two Guests: Enjoy a delicious lunch included for you and your two guests.

Guided Tour of Loco Works: Gain exclusive behind-the-scenes access with a guided tour of our locomotive works.

Visit to Loughborough Signal Box: Explore the fascinating operations of our historic signal box.

Complimentary Travel: Receive a free ticket to our Deltic Running Day on 29th September.

Drivers Certificate: Receive a commemorative certificate to mark your incredible day.

12-Month Membership: Benefit from a 12-month membership of Friends of Great Central Mainline, offering exclusive perks and events.

Your Class Driving Experience Includes...

About the Royal Highland Fusilier...

The Class 55 locomotives were introduced between 1961 and 1962. 55019 was built by English Electric at the Vulcan Foundry. They were powered by two Napier Deltic engines, each producing 1,650 horsepower, giving the locomotive a total of 3,300 horsepower. The Deltics were primarily used on the East Coast Main Line (ECML), hauling high-speed express passenger services between London King's Cross and destinations in Scotland such as Edinburgh and Aberdeen. They were capable of reaching speeds up to 100 mph (161 km/h). 55019 was withdrawn from regular service in 1982 as part of the phasing out of the Class 55 locomotives. However, unlike many locomotives that were scrapped, 55019 was preserved due to its historical significance. It has been maintained in working condition and often appears at heritage railways and rail events across the UK. 55019 "Royal Highland Fusilier" is preserved by the Deltic Preservation Society and is operational. It is a regular feature at heritage rail events and sometimes operates special mainline rail tours.

Why This Experience is Unmissable...

  • Exclusive Opportunity: With only two slots available, this is a rare and exclusive chance for true railway enthusiasts.

  • Historic Locomotive: Drive the Class 55 55019 Royal Highland Fusilier, a locomotive with years of heritage and main line service.

  • Immersive Railway Experience: From driving the Class 55 to exploring our railway's inner workings, immerse yourself in the rich history of Great Central Railway.

  • Perfect Gift: This experience is a perfect gift for railway fans or a memorable treat for yourself.

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