The Kent & East Sussex Railway is the country's finest example of a rural light railway. The line owes much of its charm to its origin as the world's first light railway. Originally opened in 1900, the tightly curved line with steep gradients is typical of those rural railways that were developed on shoestring budgets to bring the 'iron horse' to sparsely populated areas.

Re-opened by dedicated volunteers as an attraction in 1974 following its closure to passenger traffic in the 1950's, today the K&ESR is one of Britain's best loved, most original heritage railways. Steam and heritage diesel trains run for 10 miles from Tenterden, affectionately known as 'The Jewel of The Weald'; through the Rother Levels, a marshland valley so difficult to appreciate any other way but by train; brushing past the village of Northiam to Bodiam in East Sussex, where the line terminates in the shadow of the magnificent National Trust Castle.

Whether you are interested in heritage, shopping, nature, food and drink or recreation there is an ever-evolving range of special events and offers that provide temptation and interest for all ages on the Kent and East Sussex Railway route. You will find a warm welcome and we're sure your day will be a truly memorable experience!

Local

Eat and Drink

• Kent & East Sussex Railway - Tenterden (0.0 miles) - The Kent & East Sussex Railway is the country's finest example of a rural light railway. The lin...
• Old Dairy Brewery - Tenterden (0.0 miles) - The Old Dairy Brewery is traditional craft micro-brewery nestled deep in the ‘Garden of England’...
• The Riverside Inn - Kent (9.5 miles) - Situated along the beautiful River Stour, the Riverside Inn Ale and Feasting House is the hidden gem...
• The Bow Window Coffee Shop & Cafe - Lenham (11.7 miles) - The Bow Window opened in early July 2016 serving customers the finest coffees, teas, hot chocolate, ...
• Romney Marsh - Romney Marsh (11.9 miles) - Romney Marsh, known for its natural beauty, the diversity of its habitats, rich history, extensive c...

See and Do

• Kent & East Sussex Railway Tenterden (0.0 miles) - The Kent & East Sussex Railway is the country's finest example of a rural light railway. The lin...
• Old Dairy Brewery Tenterden (0.0 miles) - The Old Dairy Brewery is traditional craft micro-brewery nestled deep in the ‘Garden of England’...
• Hawkhurst Fish Farm Hawkhurst (8.2 miles) - The scenic complex, which is open daily, is based around a large café that overlooks our Main lake ...
• Rye Heritage Centre Rye (8.5 miles) - The perfect way to start your visit to Rye! Situated in a converted sailmaking loft on the quayside o...
• The Kitesurf Centre Camber (11.1 miles) - The Kitesurf Centre is a rider owned & run BKSA National Training Centre It was established in 2007 b...

Shopping

• Old Dairy Brewery - Tenterden (0.0 miles) - The Old Dairy Brewery is traditional craft micro-brewery nestled deep in the ‘Garden of England’...
• Alpaca Annie - Burmarsh (14.0 miles) - We love anything alpaca!!! Offering up close and personal experiences with a beautiful creature, to ...
• Catnap Bed and Breakfast - Maidstone (15.8 miles) - A small and friendly bed and breakfast in the heart of Maidstone, well placed for town and country v...
• The Pantiles - Tunbridge Wells (18.9 miles) - Set in the heart of Royal Tunbridge Wells, The Pantiles is a retail, dining and events venue wrapped...
• Faversham Antiques & Vintage Market - Faversham (19.2 miles) - Faversham Antiques & Vintage Market is the only town centre antiques market in Kent. Taking place on...