News from the Kent and East Sussex Railway
Our innovative new Heritage Railway Youth Programme celebrated its first graduates with a ceremony at Tenterden Town Station on Sunday 23 August 2026. Eight young people, aged 13-15, received certificates recognising their achievements from the Mayor of Tenterden, Cllr Jane Mills. Over the past year, the group of teenagers have …
The Kent & East Sussex Railway has announced two major moves in its preparations for the return of services to Robertsbridge in 2028. Importantly, it has secured full funding for the restoration and installation of the historic Tovil Footbridge at Northiam Station, thanks to a combination of heritage grants, private …
The Kent & East Sussex Railway has been crowned Best Family Experience in Kent in the prestigious Muddy Stilettos Awards 2026, marking a remarkable second consecutive win. Decided by a public vote, the award recognises the railway’s continued commitment to delivering memorable, high-quality days out for families. Volunteer Stationmaster Murray …
2025 was a multi-award-winning year for the K&ESR with the railway achieving success in four prestigious award schemes and competitions, scooping six separate accolades. The year started with two commendations in the Heritage Railway Association Awards: for the collaboration with Mr Doodle in 2024 and for a teenage volunteer in …
On 5th November 2025, the Cavell Van, normally based at Bodiam Station, took part in a poignant Remembrance service as part of Rail 200. In a collaboration between the Port of Dover, South Eastern Railway and the Kent & East Sussex Railway (K&ESR) the van was brought back to Dover …
Yesterday (Wednesday 5 November), the Cavell Van – a poignant symbol of sacrifice and remembrance – took centre stage at a special Remembrance service at Dover Cruise Terminal 1, the very location from which the Unknown Warrior’s final journey began 105 years ago. In a collaboration between the Port of …
This May Half Term (26-30 May) the railway is partnering with TechZone, the UK’s premier gaming company and pioneers of the Ultimate Gaming Party, to launch a world first: the Ultimate Gaming Experience in a full equipped gaming train carriage. The custom-made installation will be fitted with a full range …
The Dwarves of Steam Gala (26-27 April) promises to show that small can be mighty with two extra special visiting locomotives operating alongside three of the railway’s smallest and much-loved residents on an intensive weekend timetable. The weekend gala is the K&ESR’s latest event in celebration of Rail 200 and …
We are delighted to announce that Chris Jackson has been appointed as the next Curator of the award-winning Colonel Stephens Railway Museum (CSRM) here at the Kent & East Sussex Railway. He takes over from Brian Janes, who stepped down last year after holding the post since 2010. Chris has …
Businessman and K&ESR volunteer Derrick Bilsby has been elected as the new Chairman of the Kent & East Sussex Railway. He replaces Simon Marsh who announced his retirement at the beginning of November. In addition, Andy Papworth has been elected Deputy Chairman and Ian Legg is the K&ESR's new Finance …
