Choose from a selection of departure times from Alresford or Alton Stations. Steam engine footplate rides are available on all days of service, excluding special event days. The perfect taster experience with a maximum of 1 participant on a ride.
Experience life on the footplate as you ride on board one of our magnificent steam locomotives hauling a passenger service through stunning Hampshire countryside. Join our crews for a 20 mile return journey ‘over the Alps’ and experience the thrill of the sights, sounds, smell and heat of a steam engine footplate.
Our expert and highly experienced engine crews are on hand to answer questions and point out various points of interest during your journey.
Click here to view and download the experience requirements plus terms and conditions.
Just thought I’d email after my footplate ride on The Watercress Line last Monday. As an avid steam and railway fan since childhood, this was a special couple of hours. I would have been content with riding on the footplate of ex-GWR Tank no. 5224, but to get the opportunity to ride the footplate of A4 Pacific ‘Bittern’ back from Alton to Ropley made it extra special. She was magical at 25mph, I can’t imagine what the experience would be like at 80mph on a mainline run!
Please extend my thanks to the crews of both locos for putting up with my questions, photos and generally getting in the way!
I have booked an evening on a ‘RAT’ in July – somehow I think I’ll be back sooner.
Many thanks
Ian Smith
Thank you for replacement certificate which arrived this morning. It was very much appreciated. Would you also be kind enough to thank everyone who made yesterday such an enjoyable day. It was a worthwhile experience that I will never forget!
Regards
Mike Hawkins
To All Concerned
Very many thanks to all at the Mid Hants Railway, Station staff, Driver John and his crew and Martin who joined us with a crew change on our return journey, they all made the experience so great to help celebrate my 70th birthday along with all my family.
Thank You again
Bob Oddie
I'd just like to thank the crews who looked after me so well during my ride on the 9F on Saturday morning. I had a whale of a time, will do it again, and will recommend the ride to others. A few photos are attached.
Kind regards
David Pollard