Signal Box Experience
Take control of the railway in North Weald Signal Box alongside one of our trained volunteers.
Have you ever wondered how the movement of trains is controlled on a busy railway such that trains, locomotives and rolling stock are in the right place at the right time? Unlike signalling simulators, if the sequence of signalling is wrong our trains really can get stuck in the wrong place causing genuine inconvenience to real people. So, why not come and learn for yourself how it's done at one of our signalbox experience days.
You will have the chance to work in the hub of our operational railway and control trains for just £175!
We include two All Day Rover tickets (worth £18 each) and a return cab ride in the diesel locomotive so you can see the signals and points that you have used in the box. This experience day is an ideal choice for a birthday gift or special treat just for yourself - and remember to bring your camera.
Available on selected standard operating days you will start at 09:30 at North Weald where you will meet the duty signaller. After a brief introduction to the signal box the first train will depart to Ongar at 10:10. You will be shown the token procedure and how to set a route allowing the train to depart for Ongar, this includes the all important liaison using bell codes with Ongar Signal Box and allowing the token to be released.
Throughout the day you will operate mechanical and electrical points, signals and exchange tokens, during which you will gain an understanding of how a signal box operates and familiarise yourself with the different levers and their meanings. The day will end at approximately 16:30 after the last train has arrived at North Weald.
To summarise your day includes:
- Operation of the North Weald Signal Box
- Epping Ongar Railway DVD
- Return journey to Ongar in the cab of the rostered diesel locomotive or unit
- Two free adult All Day Rovers for your friends or family to use
- Signal Box Experience
Why not buy a giftcard for our signalbox experiences? These make an ideal unusual birthday or Christmas gift!
Giftcards can be purchased here.
Dates for 2024
Available dates are shown when booking, below.
If you would like to come on a different day please contact us and we may be able to help. Send any queries by email or use our contact form.
Booking your experience
Use the booking menu below to select your preferred date. If you would like to pay by another means, then please get in touch by email or use our contact form.
Full terms and conditions for our signal box experiences can be found here.