Tour Ref: KS5/1
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Rich in heritage, railways and scenery, this tour is a must do for those of you who want a diverse and fascinating trip to the South East corner of the country. Super scenery and an overdose of steam throughout as we caper through the Garden of England.
We meet at Lewes early afternoon, dispense with our luggage, and take the branch line train to Seaford. A scenic afternoon commences with a visit to Beachy Head to view the iconic cliffs. Then we head to Hastings for a bounce up and down on the cliff lifts and, hopefully, a narrow-gauge railway ride. From here it’s but a short drive across to Peasmarsh.
A scenic drive through leafy lanes takes us to Tunbridge Wells this morning and the Spa Valley Railway. This lovely line features steam and diesel haulage amid rustic country scenes. Back in Tunbridge Wells we jump on a train to Battle and stroll along to the Abbey, site of the Battle of Hastings. Time is allowed for lunchtime foraging and then we are off for more Southern steam at the Kent & East Sussex Railway. This is a fantastic heritage railway with almost 12 miles of running line, an absorbing museum to Colonel Stephens and fine views of Bodiam Castle.
This morning we set off from our local station at Rye to Brighton. Underneath the station is the amazing Brighton Toy and Model Museum and that’s our first treat of the day. Then we are off to the seaside for the unique Volks Electric Railway running alongside the beach. In the afternoon we head inland for steam at the Bentley Miniature Railway before more railway action with the Lavender Line at nearby Isfield. Finally, we trundle across country back to our hotel.
This holiday gets better and better! We start off at the diminutive Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway where there’s time to explore the site and model railway exhibition. Lunchtime is among railwayana at the Elham Valley Line Trust Museum before a Kent “must do”, the awesome Battle of Britain Museum. We then meander our way back to the hotel reflecting on all that was enjoyed in the beautiful county of Kent.
A final day and have we saved the best for last? We are off to the Bluebell Railway – renowned in Sussex and beyond. Authentic stations, full sized engines and lots to see and do. Homeward bound journeys commence from Haywards Heath Station early-afternoon.
11 miles of leafy Sussex scenery behind one of their many steam locos. Other attractions include a museum and gardens to explore.
10 ½ mile railway with beautiful countryside views and the Colonel Stephen's Railway Museum.
Situated in East Sussex and chuffing through the glorious countryside of the Weald.
What a find this place is! A Georgian country house nestled in rolling hills close to the ancient port of Rye. It boasts a fine restaurant, health club, indoor pool and well-appointed rooms featuring all of the facilities one would expect.
