2017: The Spa Valley Railway started operations from Tunbridge Wells West station in 1996 and was finally completed through to Eridge in 2011 where it connects with National Rail services.

It runs through an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty known as the High Weald.

During the Easter holiday period we distribute chocolate eggs to the children and provide quiz/competitions for the children.

We operate steam and diesel Driver Experiences where you have the opportunity to drive one of our locomotives, be a fireman or operate the signalbox.

Murder Mystery in the High Weald!

Come along to our Murder Mystery Evenings when you can try your hand at solving a murder and try find “who done it”. The evening starts at Tunbridge Wells West station with a briefing and then we transfer to the train. Clues and more evidence is given throughout the evening whilst you enjoy a fish and chip supper followed by ice cream desert. All will be revealed at the end!

On selected Thursday lunchtimes and Saturday evenings we serve the traditional British Meal of Fish and Chips on board our heritage train whilst travelling through the glorious High Weald countryside.

Our popular dining services also include three course professional cooked meals on selected Saturday evenings and Sunday lunchtimes.  We also offer afternoon tea on selected dates in one of our 1960s heritage carriages.

Other events throughout the year include a steam festival weekend in July when all our available steam locomotives are in operation in addition on display will be road traction engines plus other vehicles.

For diesel locomotive enthusiasts in August we hold a four day diesel gala when all our available diesel locomotives are in service plus some visiting locomotives from other heritage railways.

During the summer children’s favourite characters make an entertaining appearance during weekends.  In the past we have been visited by Thomas the Tank Engine with Sir Topham Hatt, Paddington Bear, Paw Patrol, Peppa Pig, Postman Pat and PJ Masks.

Real Ale and Cider Festival

In October we hold a three day Real Ale and Cider Festival in conjunction with West Kent CAMRA. Now (2017) in its 7th year the event has expanded each year and at the 2016 we served over 150 different beers or ciders.

The railway is run by a fantastic team of volunteers who have worked around the clock to restore and maintain services along the line.  Work is ongoing in maintaining the locomotives, rolling stock and infrastructure.

Come and join us

All members receive training and safety briefings to undertake the jobs they do. The members also hold occasional social functions to meet informally. The railway is always looking for new recruits so why not become part of our fantastic railway and join us today.

With thanks to Brian Halford of the Spa Valley Railway for his round up of events during this special year.