The reopening of the Kent & East Sussex Railway has been welcomed by local MP Damian Green.
Steam trains will run this weekend (July 18/19) for the first time since the enforced coronavirus lockdown.
Mr Green, MP for Ashford, said: “I am delighted that the Kent & East Sussex Railway is rolling back into action. It is one of our great local attractions and I hope families come back to enjoy it in large numbers.”
Initially, there will be a slimmed-down timetable, with two steam-hauled round-trips running passengers on a journey through the Rother Valley from Tenterden Town to Bodiam on Saturdays and Sundays, starting on July 18.
Passengers will enjoy a brief rest at Bodiam station before returning to Tenterden on their scheduled return journey.
Face coverings must be worn
Kent & East Sussex Railway spokesperson Helen Douglas, sales & marketing manager said: “Our steam-hauled trains will run on Saturdays and Sundays only, but we’ll keep this under review and adjust our services according to demand.”
Trains will leave Tenterden Town at 10.40am and 1.15pm – and the return journey takes one hour and 50 minutes. Bookings must be made online in advance at www.kesr.org.uk/reopening
Tables for a family of up to four in the open-plan carriages will be staggered to ensure social distancing. Face masks must be worn and these can be bought at the station.
Exclusive compartments for family groups of up to eight people are available in one of the railway’s vintage carriages.
Family return tickets for groups of up to four people travelling in an open-plan carriage are £45. Tickets for up to eight people travelling together in an exclusive compartment are £75.
To book tickets to visit and for additional information about the railway visit www.kesr.org.uk.
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