DAYSOUT
Off the Beaten Track cont... promises many a Kentish adventure just steps from its long-standing stations.
Beyond the tracks...
Before you set off on your journey from Hythe station, carve out time to visit the astonishing Crypt at St Leonard’ s Church( open until the end of September) to marvel at the largest and best-preserved collection of ancient human skulls and bones in Britain. Then take a ramble through Hythe’ s high street, stopping off at Florence’ s Bakery for a coffee and delicious flaky pastry along the way.
Following a delightful journey aboard a world-famous locomotive terminating at Dungeness, breathe in the fresh sea air on the captivating shingle beach before seeking out fascinating wildlife at Dungeness Nature Reserve. In need of a pitstop? Relish hearty eats at RHDR’ s End of the Line Restaurant or opt for tasty local seafood bites at Dungeness Snack Shack.
The Sittingbourne & Kemsley Light Railway, Sittingbourne- Kemsley sklr. net
Built in 1905 for the transportation of materials and products for the local mill, this unique and lovingly preserved line is run entirely by volunteers who are dedicated to showcasing the original steam engines and rolling stock that were once supplied to operate the railway in all its heritage glory. Alongside an impressive collection of historic steam and diesel locomotives, coaches and wagons, the railway also holds an inclusive calendar of events- with visitors invited to embark on a pleasant 15 minute journey from Sittingbourne
Viaduct station to Kemsley Down station, which is home to the railway’ s museum, shop and café.
Beyond the tracks...
Perfect for picnicking or outdoor explorations, the railway is only a short wander from Sittingbourne’ s Milton Creek Country Park, a tranquil green space comprising 128 acres with a natural children’ s play area and an extensive path network of wild meadows and shrubs. For a post-stroll tipple, the town’ s Paper Mill Micropub makes for the perfect retreat, with an array of top-notch real and craft ales on offer.
Spa Valley Railway, Tunbridge Wells West- Eridge spavalleyrailway. co. uk
Proudly promising‘ A Destination at Every Station’, Spa Valley Railway is known and loved for their picturesque High Weald journeys and wide array of special events on board their esteemed collection of steam and heritage diesel trains. From scenic fish and chip suppers and delectable afternoon teas to family-friendly themed rides, Spa Valley is fully-equipped for railway travels with plenty of entertainment to enjoy along the way.
Beyond the tracks...
Only a few minutes’ walk from the railway’ s Tunbridge Wells station, located on the western edge of the historic spa town, lies the famous Georgian colonnade that is The Pantiles. Home to an abundance of independent stores including specialist shops, art galleries, cafés, restaurants and bars, this delightful haven of boutique treasures and sophisticated dining is perfect for those looking to combine an unforgettable steam experience with a day out to the shops.
MODERN LINES & DESTINATION DELIGHTS
Today’ s swiftly developing rail network has surged ahead with the incredible high-speed lines of Southeastern( southeasternrailway. co. uk) making travelling between Kent and London- as well as between the county’ s many historic towns and coastal gems- fast, easy and accessible. An enjoyable and sustainable option, opting to travel by rail instead of by car is also a great way to reduce your carbon footprint. Whether you’ re a culture vulture seeking out a day packed with art, inspiration and creative cuisine, or a keen explorer searching for both history and adventure, Kent’ s railway towns are sure to impress.
On a recent insideKENT team adventure, we had the pleasure of experiencing just how easy a Kentish day out by rail is. Starting from Ashford International station, one of the county’ s major rail hubs and just a short walk away from iK HQ, we arrived on the sun-drenched, sandy shores of Margate ready for a jam-packed day of seaside fun in just 49 minutes.
MARGATE
If, like team insideKENT, you are in search of a perfect combination of fun, fabulous food and vibrant cultural experiences for your next day out by rail, Margate should be at the very top of your list. Landing you only a short walk from the muchloved Main Sands, Margate’ s bustling station is easily accessible with direct
DUNGENESS THE PANTILES
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