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March
2022.
Steam into Summer with the Kent & East Sussex Railway

 Dear 


With Spring underway and thoughts turning to Summer holidays, I hope the below information on the Kent & East Sussex Heritage Railway's new season will be of interest for forthcoming features on UK Holidays/staycations, days out and summer family activities.

To toast the new season, we are holding a press day on 30th March. If you would like to join us aboard the historic Wealden Pullman for a steam train ride through the beautiful Rother Valley, while enjoying our Sparkling Afternoon Tea, please let me know and I will forward an invitation to you. If you can't make this date I would be happy to arrange a separate visit instead.


Kind regards
Helen Douglas
Sales & Marketing Manager, Kent & East Sussex Railway 

 
 

Press release
 

Steam into Summer on the Kent & East Sussex Railway!

 

The best is yet to come, so the saying goes, but for unforgettable adventures for families, couples and friends this Summer, why not take a trip back in time to the golden age of steam on the Kent and East Sussex railway (K&ESR).

 

After a challenging two years due to the pandemic, the much-loved steam railway attraction in the picturesque Cinque Port town of Tenterden is back with a bumper programme of events and activities which also celebrate more than 60 years since it was transformed into a heritage line.

 

The 2022 season launches in style on Saturday 2 April with the ultimate elegant experience: a Sparkling Afternoon Tea* aboard the historic Wealden Pullman. On offer, a menu of tasty treats paired with award-winning sparkling wines from nearby Woodchurch Winery, all served by the Pullman's liveried stewards.

 

Real Ale Trains will warm up the season on 8th April and 6th May, starting with a private tasting at Tenterden Town station, hosted by local partners Old Dairy Brewery followed by a ride through the beautiful countryside with hot food and a selection of Real Ales for the journey.  Trains depart from Tenterden Town Station at 7:15pm and return at approximately 9:45pm.

 

On Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th May visitors can immerse themselves in the lifestyle of the 1940s with activities including: live music at Tenterden and Bodiam stations, vintage stalls, a parade of period civilian and military vehicles and even the chance to try a'40's hairdo. And for those suffering Strictly withdrawal symptoms, there will be dance demonstrations from the period, including the Lindy Hop. Join in if you dare!

 

June brings K&ESR's own Platinum Party - The Best of British Weekend - scheduled for the weekend of 2nd-5th June, as part of Tenterden's celebrations for the Queen's Platinum Jubilee. This is followed by a CAMRA Real Ale and Cider Festival on Friday 17 June (6pm-10.30pm) and all day Saturday 18th June (11am to 10.30pm).

 

Throughout the Railway's season (2nd April to 30th October ), children can become nature detectives on board the historic trains using a free nature activity sheet to spot the many birds, plants and other wildlife to be seen along the 10.5 mile route along the Rother Valley through this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. A Freedom ticket will provide a whole day's unlimited travel so that passengers can stop off to visit Bodiam Castle** or other local amenities before making the return journey. Passengers who are not members of the National Trust can receive 10% off castle admission by showing a valid K&ESR train ticket.

 

The railway's popular Fish and Chip Supper Specials are also back for the Summer, and will run on 18th May; 1st and 29th June; 13th July; 10th and 24th August and 7th September. Trains depart from Tenterden at 6.30pm: a great, chilled out way to end a visit to the pretty market town of Tenterden and the surrounding area.

 

As well as enjoying a nostalgic train journey, there's plenty to see at the station itself, including: the award-winning Railway Museum telling the story of Colonel Stephens (the entrepreneur who built and operated the railway) through interactive displays; the model railway and of course the gift shop and cafe.

 

Whether on board or looking around, the friendly station team - most are volunteers - will be only too happy to answer visitors'questions and make a visit as enjoyable and interesting as possible.

 

Ticket prices start at £13.50 with a Freedom pass for a family of four at £49 (online price). To book and to view full details of services, all prices and events visit the railway's website at:

https://kesr.org.uk/

You can also follow K&ESR on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram

 

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Notes to Editors

* A Sparking Afternoon Tea will also be part of the Autumn programme; details will be forwarded to the media when the full programme has been finalised

** Entry to Bodiam Castle, which is a National Trust property, is not included in the price of K&ESR train tickets.

 

For further information and to request a press trip on the railway please contact:-

Helen Douglas

Sales and Marketing Manager, Kent and East Sussex Railway

E:hdouglas@kesr.org.uk

M: 07791 569150

 

Issued: 1 March 2022