Kent and East Sussex Railway
Travel Back in Time & Escape the Modern World
The railway you see today at 10½ miles in length is a fine example of one of England’s light railways and originally part of a larger system which operated between Headcorn and Robertsbridge. The K&ESR was the very first ‘light railway’ to be constructed: light railways are equipped with full size trains, but have steep gradients and operate at low speed.
Passenger trains ran from 1900 until 1954 but an ambitious scheme to reopen the railway from Tenterden was proposed, although it was not until 1974 that the first trains were able to run on a short section of line. The registered charity that now owns and operates the line was able to finally restore services to Bodiam in time for the centenary of the line in 2000: today the K&ESR welcomes around 90,000 people each year.
Facilities
Useful Information
Make the most of your visit
The Kent & East Sussex Railway is situated in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and follows the wide unspoilt Rother Valley for much of the journey. Our small rural stations are typical of light-railways of the period, but that doesn’t mean there’s nothing to see or do! Almost all our staff are volunteers and we’re always pleased to help you get the most from your visit, including:
- The award-winning Railway Museum, where you can discover more about Colonel Stephens, the entrepreneur who built and operated the railway, is an absolute must. Located near the car park at Tenterden Town Station, the museum is open when trains are operating and entry is free
- Find out more about the fascinating story of how the K&ESR was preserved in an informative display in the Model Railway Room at Tenterden. Kids will love the model railway too – collect a token from the booking office.
- Enjoy light refreshments in a unique station setting – or take them on board the train as you travel through the beautiful Rother Valley!
- Become a nature detective – look out for the unique mix of nature as you travel along the line. Both family nature trails and on board information is available – https://kesr.org.uk/what-to-see-from-the-train/
- Pick up that perfect souvenir of your visit from the Gift Shop.
- Get up close and personal with the beauty of the local countryside with one of our downloadable Rail Trail walks. Or explore the diverse range of independent shops in the beautiful market town of Tenterden.
- Combining the excitement of a train ride with a visit to Bodiam Castle? If you’re a member of the National Trust, entry to the castle is free – but if not, remember to show your valid K&ESR ticket at the entrance to receive 10% off your
Activities available in this location
Open Times
Contact
Tenterden Town Station
Station Road
Tenterden
Kent
TN30 6HE
Gallery
1940s Weekend
Age Appropriate
- Children
- Teenagers
- Adults
Location
- Outdoor
On Saturday 18 May and Sunday 19 May it’s the welcome return of the railway’s popular 1940s Weekend: two days of pure nostalgia, recreating the sights, sounds and fashions of the 1940's with trains leaving every 45 minutes (8 trains a day).
With entertainment at both Tenterden and Bodiam, visitors can fully immerse yourself in the 40's atmosphere created by re-enactors, live performers and musicians plus authentic period vehicles, displays, food demonstrations and even hairstyling.
Keep a look out for the notorious 'Viv the Spiv' with his black-market goods!
Peruse the collection of vintage military and civilian vehicles at both sites.
Useful Information
At Bodiam Station there are interactive land army displays and activities. Re-enactors and military and civilian vehicles all add to the atmosphere. Explore the Desert Rats encampment display filled with authentic kit, weapons and jeeps.
A fully packed event not to be missed
A limited number of Platform only tickets will also be available on the day to enjoy the ‘40s vibe and station entertainments:
https://kesr.org.uk/1940s-weekend/
“Fish and Chip Steam Special”
Age Appropriate
- Children
- Teenagers
- Adults
Location
- Outdoor
Fish & Chip Evening Specials 2024
Spend a lovely evening travelling through the picturesque Rother Valley in a train hauled by a classic diesel heritage Locomotive. Arrive at Tenterden Town Station from 6pm for a 6.30pm departure.
On arrival at Bodiam Station there's an opportunity to stretch your legs and perhaps treat yourself to an ice cream.....! The train is scheduled to arrive back at Tenterden at approximately 9.15pm
Adults can choose from: Cod & Chips, Plaice & Chips, Haddock & Chips, Sausage & Chips, Vegetarian Spring Roll & Chips or Chicken & Chips.
Children can choose from: Sausage & Chips, Cod & Chips or Chicken Nuggets & Chips.
Soft & alcoholic drinks and ice creams are available to purchase at additional cost.
Advance booking is required for these popular events - online booking prices include your train fare and choice of meal:
Useful Information
Advance booking is required for these popular events - online booking prices include your train fare and choice of meal:
Train departs at 6.30pm on 17th April, 1st May 15th May, 26th June, 17th July, 31st July, 14th Aug & 11th Sep
For more information and to book please visit our website
https://kesr.org.uk/food-drink/fish-chip-evening-special/
Wealden Pullman Dining
Age Appropriate
- Teenagers
- Adults
Location
- Outdoor
The Wealden Pullman - Saturday Evening Dinners and Sunday Lunches
The Wealden Pullman forms the perfect venue to celebrate a special occasion or for a more intimate evening. Your meal is carefully prepared onboard and served by authentically attired Pullman Attendants whilst the train gently winds its way along the Rother Valley.
For full information, dates, price and to look at the menus please visit our website https://kesr.org.uk/pullman-dining/
This is one not to miss !
Useful Information
Dining carriages include historic Pullman Cars dating from the 1920’s and a 1930’s First Class carriage built for the Southampton Ocean Liner traffic. Each perfectly captures the atmosphere and style for which travel by Pullman train became renowned, maintaining the finest traditions of the Pullman Car Company for your enjoyment and as a reminder of a more elegant age.
The Wealden Pullman is staffed by a team of dedicated volunteers, who take great pride in recreating levels of service seldom enjoyed in today’s busy world. Enjoy a complimentary aperitif whilst you admire the carefully restored steam locomotive or explore the intricate marquetry panelling in Pullman Car ‘Barbara’ & ‘Theodora’. Take your seat and savour the moment as the train gently departs on its relaxing journey