An incredible experience for my sister and I. We did the 2 day course and it was well worth it. Chris was very patient and informative and having the second day meant we were able to do a proper road run which was very enjoyable. Lunch cooked on the shovel was great and stopping for a cup of tea in a shady lay by was very welcome. Definitely recommend it as an up close and hands on experience of running an incredible piece of history. We stayed at Fell View which was really comfortable and well kitted out.

I booked the day with Western Star as a treat and surprise for my fiancee. Stuart accepted our booking and secured the date I requested. Stuart communicated with me via email, and communication was excellent. On the morning of our day with Western Star, Chris was waiting for us and he warmly greeted us. The day was very relaxed but structured. We helped Chris prepare the engine, which included cleaning the smoke box, setting the fire and oiling some moving parts. Once Western Star was ready, Chris explained how the engine works and it was time for some practice driving in the farm yard. It took us some time to master the controls. But Chris remained patient and good humoured. Lunch was next, and Chris cooked bacon and eggs on the shovel within the engine's fire. They also accommodate vegetarians, but tell them you're a vegetarian when you book your day. After lunch it was time to take Western Star out onto some local roads. We stopped at a stream and filled the water tank using Western Star's onboard pump. Chris then handed over the controls and off we went. But no need to worry. Chris stayed with us on the engine and intervened before we made any mistakes. At the end of the day, we helped Chris prepare Western Star to be left in the farm yard. Throughout the day, Chris's enthusiasm, knowledge and friendly approach kept us engaged and really made our day. As you will expect, you'll get dirty with coal dust and oil. So wear your boots, overalls or old clothes. But that's all part of the experience. We left Western Star on a high, with plenty of photographs and great memories we'll never forget. If you are reading this review, then you're thinking of booking a day with Western Star. Do it. You'll have a great time and make great memories.

What a special day! We booked a day with Western Star traction engine as a family treat but mainly for our 11 year old son who is a steam fanatic. The booking process was extremely easy and well organised by Stuart who was very amiable and accommodating. On the day, Chris spent time showing us around Western Star explaining each part of the engine and how it functions, which was really interesting. Our son then had a wonderful time with the biggest smile on his face, preparing the engine - emptying the firebox, oiling everywhere and getting the fire going. Then it was time to have a drive around the yard to get used to the controls and manoeuvring under Chris's supervision. Chris was an excellent teacher, giving clear instructions throughout and was very encouraging and thoughtful. Before lunch, Chris gave us a tour around the workshop which housed other traction engines, old vehicles and machinery which was an unexpected bonus and fascinating. Lunch from the shovel was an absolute delight before hitting the road in the afternoon, steaming through the glorious Lakeland countryside. A perfect afternoon! We were very reluctant to leave Western Star as our memorable day came to a close. This was a truly special experience and one which we would highly recommend.

Booked the experience for my husbands 60th as he had always wanted to drive a traction engine! He really enjoyed it from start to finish. Chris allowed John to prepare the engine and after a short practice in the yard we were out on the open road! John was delighted to drive, under Chris's supervision, and I chose not to drive, but to enjoy the scenery from the footplate! Afterwards, we enjoyed a beer/cup of tea and they 'put the engine to bed!' An amazing day , worth every penny!