The S’Lowdown on Kent & East Sussex Railway

Come rain or shine, hop aboard the Kent & East Sussex Railway, the perfect way to while away a morning or afternoon!  Just a stone’s throw away in Newenden village is Northiam Station where you can jump on a traditional steam or diesel train and enjoy the beautiful Rother Valley from a window seat.  This is an unspoilt Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty with gorgeous countryside views that stretch for miles.   The railway line runs between Tenterden and Bodiam taking around 50 minutes each way.  

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.  Some of the trains feature old-fashioned family compartments, perfect for enjoying a sandwich or treat round the table!  For keen train enthusiasts, you can check which engine will be running when you visit via the website here.

With a hop-on-hop-off ticket you can enjoy everything the railway has to offer along with the attractions in the surrounding area. There’s an award winning museum at Tenterden Town Station (free entry), where you can discover everything about Colonel Stephens – the entrepreneur behind the railway. There’s a model railway there too which kids will love and of course a tea room for a snack before or after your trip, or to grab some refreshments to take on board with you.  

Take the train as far as Bodiam and visit the castle while you’re there. If you’re a member of the National Trust, entry to the castle is free – but if not, just show your K&ESR ticket for 10% off your castle admission.

You can 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.  Or download a Rail Trail walk so you can really enjoy the beauty of the local countryside on your day out. 

Return Tickets (when purchased online) are £20.00 for adults, £13.50 for children (3-15 years, under 3s go free.). Family 3 Tickets are £49.00 for up to 2 adults and a child travelling together, Family 4 Tickets are £53.00 for 2 adults and 2 children (or 1 adult and 3 children).

For further information, visit the K&ESR website.