Kent and East Sussex Railway Offer
Cost: FREE
Receive 25% off Adult, Child and Senior tickets.
The K&ESR was the very first 'light railway' to be constructed and the railway you see today remains a fine example of one of England’s beloved rural light railways. Originally part of the longer line that operated between Headcorn and Robertsbridge, this classic light railway is equipped with full size trains, but has steep gradients and operates at unhurried low speeds.
Find out more about the fascinating story of how the K&ESR was preserved in an informative display in the Model Railway Room at Tenterden. Kids will love the model railway too - collect a free token from the booking office.
Enjoy light refreshments in the unique setting of the 100 year old Maidstone & District Bus Station, the worlds very first purpose built bus station, relocated to the K&ESR from Maidstone in the 1980’s. Refreshments may also be taken onboard the train to enjoy as you travel through the beautiful Rother Valley!
How to redeem
Once you have received your redemption offer via email, book in advance online via https://kesr.org.uk. During the checkout process be sure to enter the code to receive 25% off Adult, Child and Senior tickets. Please remember that this is an online offer only and is NOT available at K&ESR Ticket Offices.
How to Find Us
Tenterden Town Station (TN30 6HE) is around 12 miles southwest of Ashford on the A28. There’s free car parking available just over the level crossing at Tenterden Town Station.
South Eastern Trains - The nearest mainline train stations are at Headcorn and Ashford, from where bus links operate to Tenterden
Bus services operate to Tenterden from Ashford International Station (2 or 2A), Maidstone (12) and Headcorn (12), Tunbridge Wells (297), Hastings (340).
About Us
Passenger trains ran from 1900 until 1954, but an ambitious scheme to reopen the railway was proposed and the line was reopened in 1974. Services were extended to Bodiam, 10.5 miles from Tenterden, in 2000.
The line is situated entirely within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and follows the wide unspoilt Rother Valley for much of the journey. Whilst our small stations are typical of light-railways of the period, that doesn't mean there's nothing to see or do!
A visit to the award-winning Railway Museum, where you can discover more about Colonel Stephens, the entrepreneur who built and operated the railway, is an absolute must.
Located near the car park at Tenterden Town Station, the museum is open when trains are operating and entry is free.
Become a nature detective - look out for the unique mix of nature as you travel along the line. Both family nature trails and onboard information is available - https://kesr.org.uk/what-to-see-from-the-train/
Pick up that perfect souvenir of your visit from the Gift Shop.
Get up close and personal with the beauty of the local countryside with one of our downloadable Rail Trail walks. Or explore the diverse range of independent shops in the beautiful market town of Tenterden.
Combining the excitement of a train ride with a visit to Bodiam Castle? If you’re a member of the National Trust, entry to the castle is free - but if not, remember to show your valid K&ESR ticket at the entrance to receive 10% off your castle admission!
