THELASTWORD
TRACK MAGIC :
Embracing the Past , Present and Future
BY JULY ’ S GUEST COLUMNIST , DR ROBIN COOMBES , GENERAL MANAGER OF THE KENT & EAST SUSSEX RAILWAY
THERE IS SOMETHING MAGICAL AND TRANSFORMATIVE ABOUT A HERITAGE TRAIN RIDE . IT IS NOT JUST RELIVING THE HISTORY OF A BYGONE AGE OF TRAVEL , NOR SIMPLY APPRECIATING THE BEAUTY OF THE COUNTRYSIDE BUT ALSO SLOWING DOWN THE PACE OF LIFE AND ESCAPING THE EVERYDAY .
Welcome to the amazing world of the Kent & East Sussex Railway ( K & ESR ), where history comes alive and cherished memories are made . Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Wealden countryside , running from Tenterden to Bodiam , the K & ESR is not just a railway but a living testament to the power of community , resilience and the unwavering spirit of volunteers . As general manager , I am proud to be at the helm of this cherished heritage gem and to celebrate all that it brings to my newly adopted county of Kent .
The K & ESR ' s story is one of triumph over adversity , as a dedicated group of local people saved this historic railway from the brink of extinction after its closure in 1954 . Their passion and determination have kept the wheels turning , and today the K & ESR stands as a shining example of what can be achieved when a community comes together .
At the heart of our success are our remarkable volunteers who generously give their time and expertise to keep the railway running . From the dedicated trustees and those who restore and operate the locomotives and coaches to the station staff who welcome our visitors , the K & ESR is truly a railway family . It ' s not just about preserving a piece of history , it ' s about creating a haven for wellbeing , camaraderie and lifelong friendships . We welcome new volunteers and if you join us you ' ll become part of a special and close community .
We take immense pride in offering exceptional days out for families and individuals alike . You ’ ll find elegance and charm aboard the Wealden Pullman , where you can indulge in a luxurious dining experience while taking in the stunning countryside views . Later in the year , it will be wonderful to see the joy on children ' s faces as they hop aboard our Santa Specials , embarking on a journey through a winter wonderland and sharing magical moments with Santa himself .
Nature is important to us and our heritage railway also tells a tale of recycling and sustainability , where everything finds a purpose and is cherished anew . The K & ESR is also not just a railway but a vital corridor for wildlife , with plenty of opportunities to see it from our trains and at our stations . We are proud to be a linear nature reserve and are committed to safeguarding its wonders , promoting biodiversity and conservation along our tracks . We are currently conducting comprehensive ecology surveys of the line and are dedicated to increasing and protecting the diverse array of species that call this area home .
We are not resting on our laurels , though . We are expanding our horizons - including the planned extension of our line to Robertsbridge and the prospect of a connection to main line services - while opening up new opportunities for exciting new services and immersive experiences .
Please join us on this remarkable journey . Whether you are a history enthusiast , a nature lover , or simply seeking a day of adventure and wonder , the K & ESR welcomes you . Discover the joy of steam , the beauty of our countryside , and the warmth of our community . We ’ re dog-friendly too . Come aboard and let the magic of the K & ESR transport you to a world where the past and present converge in perfect harmony .
The K & ESR is open from April every year . To check for services , events , special offers and to book and save please visit : www . kesr . org . uk .
Dr Robin Coombes General Manager Kent and East Sussex Railway – Preserving History , Creating Memories
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