insideKENT Magazine Issue 146 - June 2024 | Page 33

DAYSOUT

THE GOLDEN AGE OF TRAVEL

ALL ABOARD FOR A JOURNEY INTO THE GOLDEN AGE OF TRAVEL - THE LOST AGE OF LUXURIOUS TRAVEL BETWEEN 1850 AND 1940 , WHEN CUNARD LUXURY LINERS PLIED THE ATLANTIC AND LUXURY TRAINS LINKED EUROPE WITH THE NEAR AND FAR EAST .
The Kent & East Sussex Railway ( K & ESR ) www . kesr . org . uk
A railway known for its scenic journeys through the beautiful Weald countryside with a rich history that dates back to the early 1900s when it served as a rural line connecting agricultural areas . After closing in the late 1950s , it was preserved and reopened as a heritage railway in 1974 , making this year its 50th anniversary . To mark this significant milestone , the K & ESR is launching an appeal to bring the unique Pannier 1638 locomotive back to the rails . Dubbed the ‘ maid of all work ’, the Pannier 1638 is highly versatile and capable of meeting the railway ’ s varied needs , but they must raise £ 163,800 through the appeal to restore it fully - you can learn more about this via their website .
Don ’ t miss this upcoming event !
• Celebrate the K & ESR ’ s 50th anniversary in style at a gala happening on 1 - 2 June . This unique event will feature special trains , historical displays and other activities to commemorate the railway ’ s half-century of preserving the charm and nostalgia of traditional steam travel ; a celebration of history , heritage and railway fun .
Spa Valley Railway www . spavalleyrailway . co . uk
A charming heritage railway offering a picturesque journey through the scenic High Weald . This vintage railway is known for its nostalgic steam and diesel trains , allowing visitors to experience the romance of classic rail travel on winding routes through the countryside and quaint stations - a delightful outing for families and railway enthusiasts alike .
Don ’ t miss these upcoming events !
• The Dinosaur Express : On Saturday 15 and Sunday 16 June , experience a thrilling day filled with dinosaur-themed activities ; perfect for kids and families .
• The Kent Whisky Train : Enjoy a unique whisky-tasting experience on board the train on 15 and 29 June , and again on 17 and 31 August .
The Sittingbourne & Kemsley Light Railway ​www . sklr . net
Originally built in 1905 , this railway was used to transport raw materials for paper manufacturing and deliver finished paper products . Today , the 2 ’ 6 ” gauge railway still operates with the original steam engines and rolling stock that were used before its preservation in 1969 , giving a genuine sense of history . The railway is proudly run by dedicated volunteers who are passionate about keeping this piece of history alive ! If you appreciate vintage steam railways , this is a must-see destination .
Don ’ t miss these upcoming events !
• Steam & Beer Weekend : On Saturday 29 and Sunday 30 June , Kemsley Down hosts a beer festival with a selection of unique real ales and ciders from across the UK .
• Wild West Event : Returning for another year to the railway on Saturday 27 and Sunday 28 July , promising another exciting weekend of themed activities .
Bredgar & WormsHill Light Railway www . bwlr . co . uk
Built from scratch in 1975 by a group of friends , this charming heritage railway is set in the North Kent Downs and initially
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