Climb aboard for a journey back in time along the historic East Kent Railway. Please note our trains and attractions only operate Sundays and Bank Holidays excluding Santa Specials - Please check before you travel if in any doubt. Once a thriving industrial line serving the Kent Coalfield, the four-mile round trip takes you on a scenic journey between the pretty villages of Shepherdswell and Eythorne. Rolling countryside, steep chalk-lined cuttings and the fascinating Golgotha Tunnel make this a visit to be remembered. With more to see than just trains, great food and a lovely location, you need to find the time to visit this hidden gem in the Kent countryside.
A well hidden East Kent gem that offers a superb family day out. This time around, we enjoyed a trip on the diesel powered train to Eythorne and back with a short stop at the cafe in Eythorne. We had hot drinks which were freshly made and snacks. We didn't have hot food this time around but I've heard good feedback so will be trying this on a future visit. Staff are knowledgeable, passionate and really care about what they do. There's plenty to do here, from woodland walks to a full size railway, to two miniature railways. There are a number of small displays and museums around the site, and Walmer Model Railway Club are also based here. There are shops selling railway memorabilia, and a further cafe in Shepherdswell. We had hot food for lunch, and whilst it took a while to arrive (it was a busy bank holiday Monday) it was freshly prepared and there's a good selection of toys to keep children entertained. The only negative feedback was that there were few vegetarian options - but I guess I only needed one thing to eat :) I've since signed up to become a member to support this excellent piece of East Kent Heritage and would recommend anyone to visit and enjoy what's on offer. Parking is ample and secure, or you can arrive by main line rail, the station is just next door.
Great train ride. Different activities in the area, cafe, shop, model railway, miniature woodland railway and The knees woodland. I love going for a walk their just to be in the countryside!
This place is so bad! It sounds great on paper but it's the absolute worst place I've visited for children. It's PS30 for a family of 4 to travel on the train that has no views to the next stop where it has nothing to do. A picnic bench and a toilet. Nothing for kids to do. The "restaurant" carriage is a shambles. Don't bother. We turned up at opening time and decided to get some breakfast and all of the workers were having their breakfast and a jolly up. Don't bother No gift shop open One of 3 miniature railways opened and even then they kicked everyone off of the train and we had to walk back from the end because the route wasn't maintained and the track was unsafe. The internet service is non existent which makes their "sumup" or chip and pin payment devices not work correctly. You've been fairly warned. DO NOT GO!
We booked a train driving experience for dad for Father's Day and it was truly a great day! They made so much effort to make it as fun for dad as it was for mum and I as passengers and we couldn't ask for a better day. The guys that organised the day had so much knowledge and made our day!
Interesting transport museum on a section of branch line at the local station. Pity its only open at limited times but the cafe is open most days. Worth a visit if you're interested in historical transportation.
A great adventure for children and railway enthusiasts. It is run on a voluntary basis by wonderful people who are always helpful and willing to tell interesting stories. Important information! The train ticket is with return option. No need to worry when you get back to your car, I was afraid of it . Visit them for sure and support the donation. It's really worth it.
On-site services
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Assistive hearing loop
Toilets
LGBTQ+ friendly
Transgender safe space
Family discount
Good for kids
Kid-friendly activities
Free parking lot
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A well hidden East Kent gem that offers a superb family day out. This time around, we enjoyed a trip on the diesel powered train to Eythorne and back with a short stop at the cafe in Eythorne. We had hot drinks which were freshly made and snacks. We didn't have hot food this time around but I've heard good feedback so will be trying this on a future visit. Staff are knowledgeable, passionate and really care about what they do. There's plenty to do here, from woodland walks to a full size railway, to two miniature railways. There are a number of small displays and museums around the site, and Walmer Model Railway Club are also based here. There are shops selling railway memorabilia, and a further cafe in Shepherdswell. We had hot food for lunch, and whilst it took a while to arrive (it was a busy bank holiday Monday) it was freshly prepared and there's a good selection of toys to keep children entertained. The only negative feedback was that there were few vegetarian options - but I guess I only needed one thing to eat :) I've since signed up to become a member to support this excellent piece of East Kent Heritage and would recommend anyone to visit and enjoy what's on offer. Parking is ample and secure, or you can arrive by main line rail, the station is just next door.
Great train ride. Different activities in the area, cafe, shop, model railway, miniature woodland railway and The knees woodland. I love going for a walk their just to be in the countryside!
This place is so bad! It sounds great on paper but it's the absolute worst place I've visited for children. It's PS30 for a family of 4 to travel on the train that has no views to the next stop where it has nothing to do. A picnic bench and a toilet. Nothing for kids to do. The "restaurant" carriage is a shambles. Don't bother. We turned up at opening time and decided to get some breakfast and all of the workers were having their breakfast and a jolly up. Don't bother No gift shop open One of 3 miniature railways opened and even then they kicked everyone off of the train and we had to walk back from the end because the route wasn't maintained and the track was unsafe. The internet service is non existent which makes their "sumup" or chip and pin payment devices not work correctly. You've been fairly warned. DO NOT GO!
We booked a train driving experience for dad for Father's Day and it was truly a great day! They made so much effort to make it as fun for dad as it was for mum and I as passengers and we couldn't ask for a better day. The guys that organised the day had so much knowledge and made our day!
Interesting transport museum on a section of branch line at the local station. Pity its only open at limited times but the cafe is open most days. Worth a visit if you're interested in historical transportation.
A great adventure for children and railway enthusiasts. It is run on a voluntary basis by wonderful people who are always helpful and willing to tell interesting stories. Important information! The train ticket is with return option. No need to worry when you get back to your car, I was afraid of it . Visit them for sure and support the donation. It's really worth it.
