East Kent Railway Trust - Dover

Nicholas L.

Located approximately 7 miles away from Dover in the small remote town of Sheperdswell is the East Kent railway. The railway runs from Sheperdswell to Eythorne, a total of 3 miles, taking around 15 minutes for a single trip. The entrance is straightforward to enter, located down the same road that is used to access Sheperdswell national rail station. The car park is set further in the site, being a gravel area with all sorts of memorabilia situated around it and parking is free to users of the railway. The booking office, was located around on the platform itself at Sheperdswell so allow at least 5 minutes to get to it from the car park. On the way to the ticket office, there is a cafe (left) and toilets (right). There is also a picnic area next to the station, however it isn't posted very well, and is accessed by walking through the cafe area and down a set of steps. The train ride was fine, winding through the Kent countryside. Eythorne station itself, has a class 365 "Networker" that acts as a cafe serving hot drinks, food and other types of refreshments, and you can also go into the cab area and (pretend) to drive the train. A good experience of the railway and all the staff were helpful and friendly. Ticket price was also very reasonable being £10 for the entire day

calypsoangel

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!

Suraj A. V.

Went on a holiday and they opened at 10 am. Had a train ride at 10.45 am at a cost of 2 pounds per person. We all enjoyed it a lot and it’s a definitely worth train ride. Toilets were clean and free parking. A place to enjoy by the kids. Recommended for a half day visit.

Matthew S.

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.

William F.

Amazing experience pancakes are the best would recommend 🙂

Paul A.

Great place for young and old. Two 00 layouts to look at. Also full-sized diesel engine ride up the line for about 20 minutes with a stop over at the other end, that we went on. Also two smaller gauge railways you can ride on. Woodland walk too.

Jamie C.

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 café 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 café 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.

Emily N.

Amazed at how wonderful this little place is for young families and train fans.
3 different train rides, warm cafe with good menu options and a little play corner. Train sets on display and buttons to press.
Improvements would be to the outside play area and a separate coffee stand/carriage for outside picnic area (for speed)