News from the Kent and East Sussex Railway
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 …
The Kent & East Sussex Railway has been recognised for its contribution to Tenterden Town’s Gold Wilder Kent Award 2024 with a certificate presented at a reception, hosted by the Mayor of Tenterden, on Wednesday 25 September 2024. The event, in St Mildred’s Church, was attended by representatives from …
The railway has gained a significant new accolade with recognition in Tripadvisor’s® Travellers’ Choice® Awards for 2024. The award honours businesses that consistently earn great reviews, placing the K&ESR among the top 10% of listings of places to visit around the world on Tripadvisor. As the world’s largest travel guidance …
