Steam locomotives, by their very nature, have a tendency to emit sparks and hot coals through the chimney, or to drop them through the grate underneath the firebox. In particularly dry conditions this can set fire to lineside vegetation, crops and other property.

As a responsible neighbour, during such dry periods, we may add a diesel locomotive to the train in order that the steam locomotive does not have to work so hard, so reducing the emission of sparks.

Alternatively, during extended periods of particularly dry weather, it may be necessary to replace the steam locomotive with a diesel locomotive, or to adjust train services, in order to manage these risks.

Our website and social media pages will be frequently updated with further information when it is necessary to adjust our train services as a result of increased fire risks. Thank you for your understanding and continued support.

Latest Updates

The Met Office Fire Severity Index remains ‘Very High’ or ‘Exceptional’ and as a result the following alterations to train services are planned:

Monday 8th August – high fire risk: Diesel Observation Train operating between Tenterden and Bodiam. Sorry, online booking is not available for this service – subject to availability, tickets are available to purchase on arrival at the station.

Tuesday 9th August – Diesel hauled trains (shown ‘A’ in the timetable) plus Diesel Observation Train (shown as ‘DOT’) operating between Tenterden and Bodiam. Book discounted tickets online or buy tickets on arrival at the station.