Ride a historic narrow-gauge steam railway through industrial Kent landscapes, exploring original locomotives and rolling stock from 1905.

Sittingbourne & Kemsley Light Railway is a unique heritage attraction built in 1905 for transporting paper mill materials, now preserved and operated entirely by volunteers. Visitors can experience authentic steam train journeys aboard original locomotives and rolling stock that have operated on this narrow-gauge line for over a century. The railway crosses the historic Milton Regis Viaduct, passes through Milton Creek Country Park, and travels across the marshes to Kemsley Down station. At Kemsley Down, families can enjoy the air-conditioned Footplate Café, explore the on-site museum, visit the wildlife area, and stroll through the garden railway (operational when volunteers are available). The venue offers interactive entertainment including giant games like Ker-Plunk and Guess Who, plus child-safe axe throwing and outdoor games. Visitors can also access the King Charles III England Coastal Path for views across to the Isle of Sheppey and Little Murston Nature Reserve, with opportunities to spot diverse bird and wildlife species in the freshwater and saltwater marsh habitats. The railway hosts special events throughout the year including Easter celebrations, Steam & Beer Music Festival, Gala Weekends, and Santa Specials. Group visits and children's parties can be arranged in advance. The venue welcomes families of all ages, from infants who travel free to seniors, with two hours recommended to fully experience the attractions and facilities.

Venue Details

What this place offers

Toilets

Public transport nearby

Accessible toilets

Free WiFi

Baby changing facilities

Food available

On-site parking

🐕Dog-friendly

Parking nearby

Pushchair friendly

☕ Food & Drink

E

Eric Beach

2 months ago

A small industrial narrow gauge railway tucked away behind KFC in Sittingbourne. We went with a wheelchair and they were exceptionally helpful and kind. The step free access come out near the entrance to the skatepark [just past the top end of the car park - ie out the car park entrance and turn left]. The little cafe , museum and gift shop are at the far end of the line where the sheds etc are. There is usually just about time to do one of these before the train leaves after about 20 mins. I spent most of the time 'talking trains' with the staff. Nice hour or so spent there.

C

Chris

a year ago

Good value £9 return adult , 10 mins each way Cafe and museum at kemsley down station , recommend

M

Martin Whiskin

a year ago

Have lived here for over 40 years and never been on the light railway so thought it was probably time! There's not a whole lot to see as most of the trip is extremely overgrown with vegetation but still cool nonetheless. It's a nice bit of history for the town and well done to those working hard to keep those memories alive.

A

Amy Worley

2 years ago

Lovely little railway.santa special today with grandson.friendly staff, good cafe & gift shop,Santa was really good.great value for money grandson got to choose gift.sausage roll mince pie and drink included in price.worth another trip in summer.

R

Rosalind Raven

5 years ago

Good value and a fun couple of hours. It isn't the most beautiful train ride at the start as it goes through an industrial estate before reaching the country park. It then stops for a while at the station while you have time to explore the little museum, look around at all the other train engines and visit the cafe. At £20 for a compartment that can seat up to 6 I felt it was good value and it was enjoyed by the adults and children

Reviews last updated: 29 September 2026