Kent & East Sussex Railway

About

Escape the everyday on the Kent & East Sussex Railway to enjoy a unique view of the beautiful Wealden countryside from the ‘olde-worlde’ comfort of a heritage steam or diesel train. 

You’ll experience a magical 10.5-mile journey between Tenterden and historic Bodiam Castle through an outstanding National Landscape that’s reputed to be the finest example of a medieval landscape in north-west Europe – all the while keeping watch for the wonderful wildlife to be spotted along the route. The railway forms a unique and special ‘nature corridor’ supporting many different species including more than 80 different birds – many on the endangered list – and some rare bumblebees and amphibians benefiting from the biodiverse habitats.

With a Freedom Ticket and regular services available from April to October, you won’t miss out on the fun whenever you arrive. With special deals and amazing events throughout the year – from guided bird song trips to Murder Mystery evenings, behind the scenes tours and not forgetting award-winning Santa Specials – visiting is so much more than a train ride. 

Whenever you travel, you’ll be assured of the warmest of welcomes from our friendly volunteer staff who always do their absolute best to ensure passengers have a wonderful day out. In fact, we’re proud to say that the K&ESR received a Tripadvisor’s ® Travellers’ Choice® Award in both 2024 and 2025. The award honours businesses that consistently earn great reviews, placing the K&ESR amongst the top 10% of places to visit around the world on Tripadvisor.

Before boarding the train make sure you take on your own fuel from the Art Deco Station Tea Room at Tenterden. If you prebook, you can receive on train-catering from the railway’s friendly volunteer staff. This includes the new Rother Valley Limited dining car offering onboard brunches and lunches on selected services. And for that special occasion, why not book a fine dining experience or Sunday lunch aboard the luxurious Wealden Pullman.

Do leave time to visit the fascinating Colonel Stephens Museum at Tenterden station which tells the story of the K&ESR as the country’s first - and original - light railway, the model railway room and gift shop, all at Tenterden. Meanwhile at Bodiam station you can find out more about the history of hop picking in Kent and the Cavell Van, there is the opportunity to head to the nearby Bodiam Castle or explore the local countryside on a nature walk, guides for which can be downloaded from the website.

So why not make a date to ride back in time to a quieter, calmer world and help preserve one of the country’s most beautiful heritage experiences.

Book online to save on ticket prices at: www.kesr.org.uk