Kent & 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.

Upcoming Events

"May the Fourth be with you" Join us as we celebrate Star Wars

Dress as your favourite Character and enjoy a trip back in time on one of our Heritage locos.
Wearing anything from your favourite Star Wars t-shirt to full-on Stormtrooper costume it is completely acceptable.
Prizes will be given out during the day for the best dress... (click below to read more)

When: Sat 04 05 2024 at 10:00 am

Until: Sat 04 05 2024 at 3:30 pm

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1940s Weekend

Saturday 18th and Sunday 19th May 2024
A whole weekend of pure nostalgia recreating the sights, sounds and fashions of the 1940s
Early booking is recommended for this popular event!
Trains will be departing every 45mins from 10.30am - with 8 departures per day!
Tak... (click below to read more)

When: Sat 18 05 2024 at 10:00 am

Until: Sun 19 05 2024 at 4:00 pm

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Gallery