Eridge Station Spa Valley Railway
Ride through scenic countryside on heritage steam and diesel trains, with special events and dining experiences.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Trains run more frequently.
Eridge Station Spa Valley Railway
Best Time
Trains run more frequently.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ride through scenic countryside on heritage steam and diesel trains, with special events and dining experiences.
"A great day out with friendly staff and beautiful heritage trains!"
🎯 Book Themed Events Early
Polar Express & Beer Festivals are popular! Book tickets well in advance to secure your spot.
🚊 Check Train Timetables
Timings vary for steam & diesel. Always check the official schedule before visiting.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Steam Train Journeys
Spa Valley Railway Line
Experience the romance of steam with heritage locomotives chugging through the scenic Kent and East Sussex countryside.
Eridge Station Charm
Eridge Station
A picturesque heritage station offering good facilities, teas, and snacks at reasonable prices.
Themed Event Experiences
Various Stations
From festive Polar Express rides to Real Ale and Cider Festivals, these events offer unique, memorable experiences.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Special Events
Check Timetables for Eridge Station
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Themed Events Early
Polar Express & Beer Festivals are popular! Book tickets well in advance to secure your spot.
🚊 Check Train Timetables
Timings vary for steam & diesel. Always check the official schedule before visiting.
☕ Enjoy Station Refreshments
Eridge Station offers reasonably priced teas & snacks. Great for a break!
🍺 Real Ale & Cider Festival
A fantastic way to experience the railway, especially if you love craft beers!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Themed Events Early
Polar Express & Beer Festivals are popular! Book tickets well in advance to secure your spot.
🚊 Check Train Timetables
Timings vary for steam & diesel. Always check the official schedule before visiting.
☕ Enjoy Station Refreshments
Eridge Station offers reasonably priced teas & snacks. Great for a break!
🍺 Real Ale & Cider Festival
A fantastic way to experience the railway, especially if you love craft beers!
🐶 Dog-Friendly Travel
Well-behaved dogs are welcome on the trains, making it a great outing for pet owners.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Spa Valley Railway for its charming heritage trains and scenic routes. The volunteer staff are frequently highlighted for their friendliness and dedication, enhancing the overall experience. Special events like the Polar Express and Beer Festivals are particularly popular, though booking in advance is essential. Some find the food options basic, but the unique dining experiences like the Fish and Chip train are well-received.
"Fish and chip train highly recommend. Reasonable cost and three trips up the railway. Had a friendly waiter didn't catch the name but very attentive and helpful."
martin wright
"Spent some tine at eridge Station while on day out to Spa valley railway. Good facilities teas and snacks very reasonably priced. Great day out3"
Andrew Fletcher
"Spa Valley Railway is a great experience. We visited as part of the Beer Festival and we have also taken the kids on a themed weekend. The stations on the line are worth a stop if possible. Would recommend the train journey during the beer festival."
Andrew P_______
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Spa Valley Railway operates between Tunbridge Wells West and Eridge. You can access Eridge Station directly, or travel to Tunbridge Wells West. Parking is available at Tunbridge Wells West, and Eridge Station has limited facilities.
Eridge Station has limited parking facilities. It's advisable to check the Spa Valley Railway's website for the most up-to-date information on parking availability and any associated costs.
Eridge Station is served by National Rail services, making it accessible via public transport. This can be a convenient option if you're traveling from London or other nearby areas.
The main stations on the Spa Valley Railway line are Tunbridge Wells West, High Rocks, Groombridge, and Eridge. Each station offers a unique charm and experience.
Accessibility can vary depending on the specific train and station. It's recommended to contact the Spa Valley Railway directly to inquire about wheelchair accessibility for your planned visit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary depending on the type of service (e.g., standard journey, themed event, dining train). It's best to check the official Spa Valley Railway website for current pricing and booking options.
While tickets may be available on the day, it's highly recommended to book in advance, especially for popular themed events like the Polar Express or during peak times, to guarantee your entry.
A standard ticket typically allows you to travel on the heritage trains between the stations. Special events or dining experiences will have their own inclusions, so check the details when booking.
The Spa Valley Railway may offer family tickets or group discounts. Check their website or contact them directly for information on any available concessions.
Operating hours and days vary throughout the year and are dependent on the timetable. Always consult the official Spa Valley Railway timetable for the most accurate information.
🎫 🚂 Onsite Experience
You can experience both steam and heritage diesel trains. The railway boasts a collection of beautifully maintained locomotives, offering a glimpse into railway history.
The Fish and Chip train is a popular dining experience where you can enjoy a meal onboard while taking a scenic trip along the railway. It's highly recommended for a unique outing.
Yes, Spa Valley Railway hosts various special events throughout the year, including the Polar Express, Real Ale and Cider Festivals, and other themed weekends.
Eridge Station offers good facilities, including teas and snacks at reasonable prices. It's a pleasant place to spend time while waiting for your train or after your journey.
Absolutely! The Spa Valley Railway is a paradise for train enthusiasts and photographers. Many visitors capture stunning shots of the heritage locomotives at various stations.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You can find refreshments like teas and snacks at stations like Eridge. For a full dining experience, consider the Fish and Chip train or the English Cream Tea journey. +1
While specific policies can vary, it's generally good practice to check with the railway beforehand. However, enjoying the onboard dining options is part of the experience.
The Huntsman pub is located at Eridge and serves great lunches and drinks, offering a lovely country pub experience before or after your train journey.
The English Cream Tea journey offers a delightful afternoon tea experience on the steam train, typically from Eridge to Tunbridge Wells and back. It's a relaxing and tasty way to travel.
It's advisable to inquire directly with the Spa Valley Railway about specific dietary options for their dining services, especially for themed events or onboard meals.
📸 📸 Photography
Stations like Eridge, Groombridge, and Tunbridge Wells West offer great vantage points. The scenic countryside along the line also provides beautiful backdrops for train shots.
Yes, many enthusiasts photograph trains from public access points along the line. Always ensure you are on safe ground and respect private property.
You'll see a variety of steam and heritage diesel locomotives, including Caledonian Railway Class 812, SR U Class, and Ivatt Tank engines, among others.
Eridge Station is a popular spot for photographers, with several reels showcasing locomotives departing or arriving. The platform and surrounding areas offer good angles.
While not always advertised, keep an eye on the Spa Valley Railway's social media and website for any special photography-focused events or opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking a themed dining experience like the Fish and Chip train for an extra special treat. Eridge Station offers refreshments, making it easy to manage snacks and drinks. The journey itself provides entertainment, and the chance to explore different stations adds to the adventure.
🚂 Railway Enthusiasts & Photographers
+2Eridge Station and Groombridge Station are prime spots for capturing dynamic shots of trains in action. The scenic countryside also offers beautiful opportunities. Keep an eye on the timetable for specific engine movements to plan your photography sessions effectively.
+1🍺 Beer & Ale Aficionados
Enjoy sampling a variety of local brews while chugging through the countryside. The atmosphere during these events is often described as brilliant, making it a unique and enjoyable experience for beer lovers.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Spa Valley Railway Line
Eridge Station is a key hub, known for its good facilities and reasonable refreshments. Groombridge Station is often highlighted for its picturesque setting, with one visitor noting it as a 'pretty' stop. High Rocks offers a unique natural attraction nearby. The entire journey provides a nostalgic step back in time, perfect for families and railway enthusiasts alike.
Travelers often praise the volunteer staff for their friendliness and enthusiasm, contributing significantly to the positive experience. Whether you're interested in the locomotives themselves, the scenic views, or the historical ambiance, the Spa Valley Railway promises a memorable day out.
Special Events and Themed Experiences
For adult enthusiasts, the Real Ale and Cider Festivals are a major draw. These events combine the joy of heritage trains with a selection of local brews, making for a very enjoyable day out. Visitors have specifically recommended the train journey during these festivals.
Other themed weekends and dining experiences, such as the Fish and Chip Train and English Cream Tea journeys, provide further opportunities to enjoy the railway in a special way. These events often require advance booking due to high demand, so planning ahead is key to experiencing the full spectrum of what the Spa Valley Railway has to offer.
Photography Opportunities
+2Beyond the stations, the railway line itself winds through beautiful countryside, providing scenic backdrops for your shots. Locations like Groombridge Station are noted for their photogenic qualities. Enthusiasts often find excellent vantage points along the route to photograph trains in motion.
+1When planning your photography trip, consider the different types of locomotives that operate on the line, from steam to heritage diesel. Checking the timetable for specific engine movements can help you capture the shots you desire. Remember to always prioritize safety and respect private property when photographing trains.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit