Kent & East Sussex Railway

Station Road, Tenterden, Kent, TN30 6HE

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TripAdvisor Traveller Rating - 1222 reviews1222 reviews
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Tel+44 01580 765155

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Kent & East Sussex Railway

About

Escape the everyday with a trip on the Kent & East Sussex Railway and enjoy a unique view of the beautiful Wealden countryside from the old-world comfort and charm of a heritage steam or diesel train. Step back in time as you climb aboard to experience a magical 10.5-mile journey from Tenterden to historic Bodiam Castle through an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (ANOB) that’s reputed to be the finest example of a medieval landscape in NW Europe - all the while keeping watch for the wonderful wildlife to be spotted along the route. 

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 chief stationmaster was a finalist in the 2023 VisitEngland Tourism Superstar Awards and our excellent service is frequently mentioned on TripAdvisor.

With up to five trains travelling each day from April to October you won’t miss out on the fun whatever time you arrive or whatever the weather. Special deals and amazing events happen throughout the year, including: the popular 1940s weekend, Teddy Bears picnics, Fish & Chip supper trains, Real Ale & Cider trains and, of course, the famous Santa Specials. There’s always something new and different to experience both on the trains and at the station: just keep checking the website for the latest news and offers. 

Before boarding your train, why not enjoy some delicious food in our Art Deco Tea Room, along with a variety of hot and cold drinks. You can also pick up a munch bag for the kids so they don’t get hungry on the journey. Or if you prebook you can receive on train-catering. And for a special occasion, why not make a booking to dine in style aboard the Wealden Pullman and enjoy a delicious Saturday evening dinner or traditional Sunday lunch served by livered Pullman attendants.

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. At Bodiam station, you can see the historic Cavell Van which was used to take the remains of the Unknown Warrior to London in 1920 and there is the opportunity to head to the nearby 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 
 

Book Tickets

Guide Prices

Please check website for pricing.

TripAdvisor

TripAdvisor

TripAdvisor Traveller Rating:

4.5 of 5 stars
    • Excellent
      888
    • Very Good
      245
    • Average
      46
    • Poor
      27
    • Terrible
      16

    Recent Reviews:

    • Robert E
      Southampton, United Kingdom
      Great trip out.
      5 of 5 stars
      Wednesday, 20th September 2023
      A wonderful trip out and back. The staff were very good and helpful. Gives you a chance to see Bodium Castle. Throughly recommend this. Read full review
    • gbee60
      Kent
      Fantastic day out
      5 of 5 stars
      Monday, 25th September 2023
      We left from Tenterden Station at 11.15am on Saturday morning on a beautiful sunny day. The station staff were all very helpful and knowledgeable and it really is like winding the clock back 70yrs... Read full review
    • GroutyDunstable
      Leighton Buzzard, United Kingdom
      Pullman memories!
      5 of 5 stars
      Tuesday, 26th September 2023
      Last Saturday, 8 of us from one family, enjoyed a trip on the Wealden Pullman out of Tenterden station. We just knew we were in for something special when we were greeted, on the platform, by... Read full review

    Map & Directions

    Road Directions

    From junction 9 of the M20 take the A28 to Tenterden. Turn right into Station Road in the centre of the town.

    Public Transport Directions

    Bus number 400 from Ashford to Tenterden.

    Facilities

    Accessibility

    • All Areas Accessible to Disabled Visitors
    • Guide Dogs Permitted
    • Toilets for Disabled Visitors

    Catering

    • On-Site cafe/restaurant - Station refreshment rooms at Tenterden, tearooms at Northiam. Afternoon tea or morning coffee and lunches available on many trains. Wealden Pullman for dinners.
    • Picnic Site

    Establishment Features

    • Dogs Accepted

    Parking & Transport

    • On site parking
    • Parking (free)

    Payment Methods

    • Groups Accepted - Essential to prebook.Pre-booking necessary to qualify for reduced group admission rates.
    • MasterCard accepted
    • Visa accepted

    Provider Preferences

    • In countryside

    Specialist Features

    • Family Fun
    • Marketed Towards Children
    • Marketed Towards Families

    Tours and Demonstrations

    • Educational Visits Accepted

    Opening Times

    Open Christmas
    Open New Year
    Kent & East Sussex Railway (22 May 2023 - 31 Dec 2023)

    Awards

    • Regional and Miscellaneous -WTTC Safe Travels WTTC Safe Travels 2021

    What's Nearby

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    1. The world-famous garden bringing together creativity, community and nature.

      6.42 miles away
    2. Bodiam is one of Britain’s most picturesque castles in the heart of a historic landscape.…

      7.68 miles away
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    4. Not just a model, but a complete sound and light show that brings the history of Rye…

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    5. Rye's delightful cinema, café-bar and function venue in renovated Victorian buildings.

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    11. Merriments’ stunning 4-acre RHS Partner Garden is one of the South East's hidden gems. 

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    12. Camber Castle was one link in the chain of forts built along the south coast by Henry…

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    13. Join Full Throttle Boat Charters from Rye Harbour and head out to sea for an exhilarating…

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