In the final years of the traditional Blackpool Tramway one of the highlights for many tram enthusiasts was the chance to drive a tram for the day but come upgrade and this was ended with many expecting this to be it for this initiative. But fast forward to 2019 and this has proven to be wrong as Blackpool Heritage Tram Tours have announced that it is back!
Running as “The Real Drive” the publicity tells you that this is the only destination in the UK where you can drive a real heritage tram on a real operating tramway and is sure to be a very popular initiative so you may want to get your name down as soon as possible! The experience will see you able to drive a tram between Pleasure Beach and Little Bispham with a minimum of three hours driving guaranteed.
Two different experiences are on offer; either a course with two participants or an exclusive day just for one, with prices adjusted accordingly. The two person course will cost £450 with the exclusive course being £800.
On both courses you will have a full safety brief and introduction to the tramway before receiving familiarisation of the tram due to be used (on most courses a “B fleet” Balloon will be used). After that you will be let lose on the tramway between Pleasure Beach and Little Bispham with each participant driving for three hours on each day (for the exclusive tour it will be six hours of driving).
The day starts at 0830 and runs until 1700 with breakfast rolls, refreshments and lunch provided. Each participant will also receive special workshop tour, a selection of exclusive REAL DRIVE souvenirs and a framed course certificate. Up to four companions can join on the day at a supplement of £10 (travelling on board joining the tram at North Pier/Tower).
Obviously with the Blackpool Tramway being an operating tramway there are terms and conditions which each participant must adhere to. Everyone taking part must have a current and valid DVLA full or provisional licence, be no older than 70, meet the car driving eyesight standard and be physically fit.
The Real Drive will be available on the following dates in 2019:
23rd, 24th, 25th, 26th, 29th, 30th April
1st, 2nd, 7th, 8th, 9th, 13th, 14th. 15th, 16th, 20th, 21st, 22nd, 23rd May
10th, 11th, 12th, 13th, 17th, 18th, 19th, 20th June
4th, 5th, 6th November
More details on the course can be found at http://www.blackpoolheritage.com/httours/driving.
Very tempting indeed but a serious spend!