For a truly nostalgic , magical journey through Kent ’ s most beautiful and picturesque countryside , the Kent and East Sussex Railway ( www . kesr . org . uk ) allows passengers to travel back in time starting at Tenterden Town station and chugging 10 1 / 2 miles to Bodiam station . Originally part of a larger system which operated between Headcorn and Robertsbridge , the Kent and East Sussex Railway was the very first light railway to be constructed , being fully equipped with full size trains , but having steep gradients and operating 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 offering a marvellous day out for visitors .
Summer is for adventures . This summer , whatever the weather , make it a truly memorable one with a
Family Freedom ticket , which will provide families with a journey along this iconic railway . The journey time between Tenterden and Bodiam is around 50 minutes each way , so sit back in comfort to ride through unspoilt Wealden countryside from Tenterden Town station , finishing in sight of the magnificent Bodiam Castle - a view unique to rail passengers . The great value Freedom ticket also allows you to hop on and off any of the Heritage steam or diesel trains operating on the day , so there ' s plenty of time to stop off at Bodiam before taking the return journey . Passengers who are not members of the National Trust can also receive 10 % off castle admission to Bodiam by showing a same day Kent and East Sussex Railway train ticket .
While on board , the family can turn nature detectives with a free wildlife activity sheet and even pre-book a children ’ s munch bag , or treat yourself to a cream tea or ploughman ' s ( booked and purchased online in advance ). The railway is dog-friendly so fourlegged furry friends can come along for the ride too ,
for free ! All of you can get up close and personal with the beauty of the local countryside with one of the railway ' s downloadable Rail Trail walks which are available on the website .
As well as enjoying a nostalgic train journey , there ’ s always plenty to see at Tenterden station itself , including the award-winning Railway Museum which tells the story of Colonel Stephens , the entrepreneur who built and operated the railway through interactive displays , the model railway room and of course the gift shop and lovely cafe . For something extra special during the school summer holidays , you can now book a place on one of the Kent and East Sussex Railway ’ s Young Engineering Days on 9th or 10th August . These are suitable for children aged 6-12 years accompanied by an adult . An amazing opportunity to learn more about the work of the heritage railway , the days are led by Chris Vine , author of the Peters Railway books , who will be sharing his passion for all things engineering .
© Alison Miles © Chris Lawson
KENT AND EAST SUSSEX RAILWAY
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