The Spa railway is a 3 mile steam train journey from Tunbridge Wells out into beautiful countryside, stopping off at High Rocks and on to Groomridge. It's a short journey through the lovely Kent countryside.

The railway was once part of an extensive network of lines in Kent and East Sussex and was built in 1866. For generations the line was busy playing a vital role in the rural life of the locality, and up to the late 1950's there were over 70 trains a day.

Increased car ownership led to main line closures in the 1960's, although the line from Groomridge remained open until closed to passengers by British Rail in 1985. A preservation society was set up to restore the line and in 1996 it was reopened to the public.

The High Rocks Halt - an ancient geological feature - has acres of impressive sandstone outcrops linked together by bridges. And at Groombridge, a short walk takes you to the award winning Groombridge Place Gardens and Enchanted Forest, designed to celebrate 'history, mystery and intrigue'. The gardens feature a 17th century manor house set in a moat dating back to 1230 that inspired works by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. You can also take a scenic minature train ride around the lakes, woods and meadows of the castle grounds.

Spa Valley Railway
West Station
Tunbridge Wells
Tel: (01892) 537715

Information Spa Valley Railway

Further information www.spavalleyrailway.co.uk