Class 27 Diesel Locomotive Driver Experience (Notch Three)

Get ready for the ultimate diesel adventure with the Diesel Notch Three Driver Experience. Take control of a Class 27 heritage diesel train for a full-day, 48-mile journey across Britain’s only main line steam and diesel railway. This experience offers three complete round trips and is perfect for those looking for a truly immersive railway experience.

Your experience includes:

• A welcome briefing with tea/coffee for the driver and their guests
• Introductory film viewing
• Drive of a Heritage Diesel Train (locomotive and coaches) – 48 miles of driving, covering three full round trips
• Choice of traditional breakfast or afternoon tea (both served at lunchtime) for the driver and up to four guests
• Exclusive Great Central Railway gift bag for the driver
• A guided tour of the locomotive works
• A visit to the Loughborough Signal Box
• Complimentary travel on the day for the driver and up to eight guests
• Presentation certificate to commemorate the day
• 12 months membership of Friends of Great Central Mainline for the driver

Enjoy a full day of diesel-powered fun with family and friends, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

27056, started life as D5401, has been freshly repainted for the 2025 season and boasts a rich operational and preservation history.

Built in July 1962 by Birmingham Railway Carriage & Wagon at Smethwick (Works No. 244), D5401 was the last of its class and entered service with British Railways on 14th July 1962. Initially based at Cricklewood Depot (14A), it worked local passenger services, ECS moves, and occasional express duties as far as Sheffield and Leeds. In 1968, it moved to Toton Depot, continuing operations across the Midland region.

By June 1969, the entire BRCW Type 2 fleet was transferred to Eastfield Depot in Glasgow. D5401 was selected in 1970 for conversion to push-pull operation on the high-speed Glasgow–Edinburgh route. Modifications included dual braking, rewound traction motors, fire detection, and a communication system. It retained its steam heat generator and emerged in BR Blue with sealed nose doors. The service began in 1971, but constant 90mph running soon revealed the class’s mechanical limits.

Under the TOPS system, D5401 became 27112 in 1974. After Class 47s took over the push-pull duties, it was overhauled at St Rollox in 1982 and re-entered traffic as 27056. A highlight of its career came on 23^rd November 1983, when it conveyed Prince Charles to the IBM factory at Greenoch (Fort Matilda) for a visit. The loco received a mechanical refresh and an off-white bodyside band to mark the occasion.