Sittingbourne Retail Park, The Wall, Sittingbourne ME10 2XD
Sittingbourne & Kemsley Light Railway
The Sittingbourne and Kemsley Light Railway in Kent is a 2 ft 6 in narrow gauge heritage railway that operates from Sittingbourne to the banks of The Swale.
Location
About
Sittingbourne & Kemsley Light Railway, located in the heart of Kent, England, is a must-visit tourist attraction for anyone looking to experience a slice of English history. This heritage railway offers visitors the chance to travel on a steam train and explore the beautiful countryside of Kent.
The Sittingbourne & Kemsley Light Railway was originally built in 1905 to transport paper from the Kemsley Paper Mill to the mainline railway. Today, the railway is a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a unique opportunity to travel on a steam train and experience the beauty of the Kent countryside.
The railway is open to the public on selected dates throughout the year, and visitors can choose from a range of ticket options. The standard ticket includes a return journey on the steam train, while other options include a guided tour of the engine shed and a cream tea or Sunday lunch on board the train.
One of the highlights of the railway is the opportunity to travel on a steam train, which is a rare experience in the modern world. The train is lovingly maintained and operated by a team of dedicated volunteers who are passionate about preserving the heritage of the railway. Visitors can enjoy the sights and sounds of the steam train as it makes its way through the picturesque Kent countryside, passing through fields and villages that have changed little over the years.
In addition to the steam train ride, visitors can explore the railway's museum, which houses a collection of vintage steam engines and railway memorabilia. The museum offers a fascinating insight into the history of the railway and the role it played in the development of the local area.
For those interested in the technical side of the railway, a visit to the engine shed is a must. Here, visitors can see the steam engines up close and learn about the intricate workings of these historic machines. The guided tours of the engine shed are led by knowledgeable volunteers who are happy to answer any questions and share their passion for the railway.
For a truly memorable experience, visitors can book a cream tea or Sunday lunch on board the train. This is a great way to enjoy the beautiful Kent countryside while indulging in some delicious food and drink. The cream teas include freshly baked scones, clotted cream, and jam, while the Sunday lunches offer a choice of roast meats with all the trimmings.
Overall, the Sittingbourne & Kemsley Light Railway is a fantastic tourist attraction that offers visitors a unique insight into the history of the Kent countryside. Whether you're a railway enthusiast or simply looking for a fun day out with family and friends, this heritage railway is well worth a visit.
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Things to do nearby
Sittingbourne & Kemsley Light Railway is a popular tourist attraction located in Kent, UK. The railway is a historic narrow-gauge railway that runs for three miles, taking visitors on a scenic journey through the beautiful countryside of Kent. While the railway is undoubtedly the main attraction, there are plenty of other things to see and do in the area, making it an ideal destination for a day out or a weekend away.
One of the first things that visitors to the railway should do is take a ride on the train. The journey takes you through some of the most stunning countryside in the UK, with views of rolling hills, green fields, and quaint villages. The railway is staffed by a team of knowledgeable volunteers who are happy to answer any questions you may have about the history of the railway and the local area.
Once you've had your fill of the railway, there are plenty of other things to see and do in the local area. If you're a fan of history, then you won't want to miss the opportunity to visit the nearby Bredgar and Wormshill Light Railway. This is a larger, more traditional railway that offers visitors the chance to ride on steam trains and see vintage locomotives up close. The railway also has a museum and a shop where you can buy souvenirs and gifts.
If you're looking for something a little more active, then there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy in the area. The Oare Marshes Nature Reserve is a great place to go birdwatching, with plenty of different species to see throughout the year. The reserve also has a number of walking trails and picnic areas, making it a great destination for a family day out.
For those who are interested in architecture, the nearby town of Faversham is home to some of the best examples of medieval buildings in the UK. The town is also home to a number of interesting shops and cafes, as well as a market that takes place on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.
Finally, for those who are looking for a little bit of culture, the town of Canterbury is just a short drive away from Sittingbourne. Canterbury is home to the world-famous Canterbury Cathedral, as well as a number of museums and galleries. The town also has a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of restaurants, bars, and clubs to choose from.
In conclusion, if you're planning a visit to the Sittingbourne & Kemsley Light Railway, there are plenty of other things to see and do in the local area. Whether you're interested in history, architecture, nature, or culture, there's something for everyone in this beautiful part of the UK. So why not plan a trip today and see what Kent has to offer?