Into The Blue

Not many people can say they have had the pleasure of seeing the Galloway countryside from a tank.

Experience the wilds of Dumfries and Galloway from a military vehicle with today’s Big Deal from Into The Blue.

Perfect for tank fans; ideal for stag or hen groups and brilliant for an alternative day out with friends, your tank driving experience will be delivered by Galloway Tanks & Activity Centre.

The centre is based on the working, family-run farm of Penkiln.

The farm overlooks Garlieston Harbour on the Solway Firth and has breathtaking views to the Galloway Hills.

Although, to be honest, you may find that your attention is elsewhere.

Take the levers

Valid for a year from purchase, this offer is for one person to enjoy the tank driving experience at Galloway Tanks & Activity Centre.

Participants will arrive at a themed reception area that’s kitted out like an officers’ mess with military memorabilia. There are also plenty of photos and press cuttings showing the times that the centre’s tanks and vehicles have starred in films and TV shows.

Visitors will be supplied with camouflage overalls and briefed on their mission.

After that, they’ll head to the off-road site on a genuine ex-military 6×6 Supercat ATV or a military truck. With an instructor at the controls, this is a chance for participants to get a good look at the dirt tracks and trails they might be tackling later on.

Don’t expect limousine comfort. The rugged little skid steer machines have a driver’s seat upfront with a roll cage and just enough space for participants to sit behind.

Or, if it’s a six-wheeled drive truck, visitors will have a lofty perspective as they stand up in the back and get bounced around.

Participants will be split into two groups for their actual tank driving experience. Each group member will get to take the levers for a driving lap of the tank course (approximately 3/4 of a mile), in an FV432 armoured personnel carrier.

Depending on the number of other visitors, they can also expect around 30 minutes of passenger ride time either in or on the tank.

Being a tank commander can be thirsty work so light refreshments will be provided to help you enjoy the experience.

Of course, friends and loved ones are welcome to come along for the ride. Passenger places on the tanks are available at £10 per person.

Explore the collection

The centre houses one of Scotland’s largest collection of British and American military vehicles.

Guests are welcome to look around. Highlights include an Alvis Stalwart 6X6 amphibious truck; a 434 tracked REME vehicle; an Abbot self-propelled gun; a 432 armoured personnel carrier; an SAS Land Rover and a Reo 6X6 truck. 

Happy guests

The tank driving experience has attracted enthusiastic reviews on social media:

‘Very enjoyable afternoon…’

‘We had the most awesome time here. And we drove those tanks! Can’t recommend you all enough.’

Tanks for the amazing gift

Today’s Big Deal for a tank driving experience from Into the Blue would make for a truly memorable present.

Alternatively, book yourself into this tank driving experience in Galloway and enjoy a unique day out.

Let’s face it, when you walk into work on Monday morning and your colleagues ask what you did at the weekend, you’re going to be the only one who shrugs and says, ‘Oh, you know, I took an FV432 armoured personnel carrier for a spin. What about you?’