GET UP CLOSE TO THURSFORD’S FLAGSHIP ENGINE!

Have you or a loved one ever wanted to get up close to one of history’s greatest inventions? For most people the opportunity to see a working steam engine may seem like a dream rather than reality, until now…

The famous Burrells of Thetford Showman’s engine, Victory has been at the centre of the Thursford Collection since founder George Cushing purchased in 1947. Beginning life on the fairgrounds of East Anglia in the 1920’s, Victory was the first full scenic engine, powering organs and fairground rides in the early days. After being ordered to return to Norwich at the outbreak of the Second World War, the engine was left to rust until George restored and preserved it in the museum.

In 2023, after sitting dormant for almost 40 years, the Thursford Collection restored the engine to its former glory. The huge project saw the engine brought back to life, and marked a huge milestone in the history of steam and Thursford.

The Victory Experience is new for 2025 and invites customers to experience what it’s like to get hands-on with an original Showman’s engine. The experience includes a ride on the footplate, and a look inside the tender. Full package details can be found below. This truly unique experience is not to be missed!

Prices start from £695 (with 3 spectators)

Suitable for ages 18+

HOW TO BOOK

Victory experiences are limited with dates and times subject to availability between April & September. If you are interested, in the first instance please email weddingsandevents@thursford.com with your package choice and a member of the team will be in contact.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

• 18 + with full UK driving licence only
• The experience includes embarking and disembarking the engine as well as shovelling coal so participants must be fit and healthy
• Accessibility for the experience is limited due to the nature of the experience. Please contact us directly if you need to discuss this further
• You will not be liable for accidental damage to the engine or equipment, except where damage has been caused as a result of recklessness or wilful negligence
• Full payment at time of booking

WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THE VICTORY EXPERIENCE

PACKAGE 1

Please allow a minimum of 3 hours for your experience

Introduction to the famous showman’s engine, Victory (with safety briefing)
A look inside the tender
Have a go at preparing the engine, includes coaling up, lighting up, oiling and cleaning the engine, as well as engine and fire management
Entry and tour of the museum
Ride on the footplate from our yard to car park
Opportunity to familiarise yourself with the engine, and perform some small manoeuvres on our car park
Ride on the footplate back to our yard and put the engine to bed
Chance to speak to one of Thurford’s in-house experts all about the engine
Opportunity to take photos throughout
Tea, Coffee and Biscuits during experience

£695 (includes up to 3 spectators)

PACKAGE 2

Please allow a minimum of 4.5 hours for your experience

Introduction to the famous showman’s engine, Victory (with safety briefing)
A look inside the tender
Have a go at preparing the engine, includes coaling up, lighting up, oiling and cleaning the engine, as well as engine and fire management
Entry and tour of the museum
Ride on the footplate from our yard to car park
Opportunity to familiarise yourself with the engine, and perform some small manoeuvres on our car park
Ride on the footplate back to our yard and put the engine to bed
Chance to speak to one of Thurford’s in-house experts all about the engine
Opportunity to take photos throughout
Tea, Coffee and Biscuits during experience
A delicious Showman’s (savoury) afternoon tea

£745 (includes up to 3 spectators)

HOW TO BOOK

Victory experiences are limited with dates and times subject to availability. If you are interested, in the first instance please email weddingsandevents@thursford.com with your package choice and a member of the team will be in contact.