KENT & EAST SUSSEX RAILWAY

The Kent & East Sussex Railway has been welcoming coach parties and travel groups for nearly 50 years and is the perfect destination to combine a step back into history with exploring the beauty of the High Weald.

The line’s 10½ miles, starting at Tenterden Town Station, lies entirely within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty – reputed to be the finest example of a medieval landscape in NW Europe – so the chance to spot lots of wildlife, from deer to birds, is never far away.

A warm welcome

As well as the K&ESR’s legendary warm welcome, groups of 15 or more PAX can enjoy a number of benefits including: discounted travel; complimentary seat reservations; a free on-train guide and refreshments served at your seat – from a tea or coffee and a sticky bun to a Ploughman’s Lunch or a Cream Tea and even Fish & Chips. There’s also a selection of local ales and award-winning wines available to purchase on board and from the Art Deco Tea Room at Tenterden.

Free parking and other benefits

Coach parking is free and the driver will also receive free travel and complimentary refreshments matching those ordered by the group. The railway is dog-friendly so there is also free travel for any canine companions.

Lots to see and do

Visiting the K&ESR is always more than a train journey with so much to see at both ends of the line, from the fascinating Colonel Stephens Museum at Tenterden Town Station, telling the story of the first light railway, to the historic Cavell Van at Bodiam Station which carried the body of the Unknown Warrior to London in 1920.

The line culminates within sight of the magnificent Bodiam Castle in East Sussex, a short walk away. Or stop off at Northiam to visit the famous gardens at Great Dixter, just over a mile from the station. And, of course, there is lots of explore in the historic Cinque Port town of Tenterden itself.

Special events

The K&ESR hosts many special events each season from nostalgia weekends ‘40s, ‘60s to Real Ale and Fish & Chip Supper trains to Wildlife weekends and our famous Santa Specials during December. This year our Best of British weekend (6-8 May) will celebrate the King’s Coronation. Other major events include a Steam up with special guest locomotives (27-29 May). Visit www.kesr.org.uk for details of upcoming events.

Wealden Pullman dining
Not to be missed are weekend fine dining experiences aboard the luxurious Wealden Pullman, served by liveried Pullman staff.

Contact us to book
So whether you are keen to see wildlife, visit historic places or simply experience the old-world charm of steam train travel and service, the Kent & East Sussex Railway is ready and waiting to welcome you. Our friendly enquiry team have many years’ experience working with groups, so let them help plan your perfect itinerary and seating.

Visit our website to find out more and to make an advance booking, or contact us via 01580 765155 or by emailing us at enquiry@kesr.org.uk