A hands on has been arranged for the weekend of the 8th/9th August 2026 near Didcot in Oxfordshire. Participants will get the opportunity to learn to drive a range of engines, both single cylinder and compound, and work both a plough and a cultivator. The cost for participants will be £200. In addition, the Steam Plough Club is partnering with the Steam Apprentice Club to offer two subsidised places for SAC members at a cost of £50 to the student for the weekend. The £50 for SAC members will cover the course fee as well as a years membership of the Steam Plough Club. The course fee covers the coal and transport costs for the engine and includes a packed lunch for both days. A group meal, not covered by the course fee, will be arranged for the Saturday night. Camping and caravan space is available on site.
The two Steam Apprentice Club places for the course are still available and should be applied for through their website. However, due to the very high level of interest shown in the initial advert sent out in the last Steam Plough Times, we are now operating a waiting list for adult applicants. Please get in touch as we want to operate a 3rd set of engines for the weekend, but need the numbers first to justify this. Those who expressed interest last year should now have been contacted with confirmation of their place on the course.
The level of interest already shown for the event is hopefully testimony enough to its enjoyable and relaxed nature, as well as offering a great opportunity to get practical experience in the art of steam ploughing in this our 60th anniversary year! If you have any questions, or want to book a place for yourself or a friend then please get in touch .
