Image by Steve Lee

There will be another opportunity to take a journey behind the incredible ‘Sir Keith Park’ Steam Locomotive as it travels between Tunbridge Wells West and Eridge on 14, 15, 21, 22, 28, 29 & 30 August 2021. Sir Keith Park is currently the largest working steam locomotive in the Southeast of England.

Sir Keith Park (34053) was named on 19th September 1947 by Air Vice Marshal Park.

Promoted to the rank of Air Vice Marshal, Keith Park became Commander of 11 Group RAF, in April 1940, 11 Group being responsible for the fighter defence of London and Southeast England. He became known as the ‘Defender of London’ and during the Battle of Britain his command faced the brunt of the attack from the Luftwaffe.

In March 1966, 34053 was withdrawn from active service and like many steam locomotives went to Barry Scrapyard, South Wales, and was bought privately in 1979, leaving Barry Island in 1984. The locomotive was then purchased by Southern Locomotives Limited in 2000 and was progressively restored by a dedicated team between 2000 and 2012. 

No need to pre-book all day travel tickets, just pop along on the day to enjoy the sights and sounds of this magnificent machine. Fares allow passengers to hop on and off trains all day so why not take the opportunity to explore the countryside, pubs and attractions close to the stations.

What to see and do along the line?

• Tunbridge Wells – The famous Spa town, including many pubs and restaurants and the famous Pantiles.
• High Rocks – High Rocks Inn and the High Rocks themselves, under 18s must be accompanied on the rocks.
• Groombridge – Junction Inn or the Crown Inn for a bite to eat, Groombridge Place, Country Bike Hire to explore the Forest Way.
• Eridge – The Huntsman Pub for a bite to eat.

Fares:  £10 - Adult Return, £9 - Senior Return, £5 - Child Return, Family Return (2x Adult & 2x Child).

Dining in the Weald

You will however need to book in advance to dine in style on board the ‘High Weald Belle’ on the 14 August 2021.   Arrive at Tunbridge Wells West from 18:30 for welcome Canapés and Apéritif. Board the train for a 19:00 departure and travel in the restored 1960s dining carriages through the High Weald enjoying a freshly prepared evening meal incorporating a Starter, Main and Dessert served by the uniformed waiting staff. The talented chef varies the menu throughout the year so no two trains are the same! Table for 2 is £110.

Beverages can be purchased on board including White, Red & Rosé Wines, Prosecco, Champagne, Beers, Ciders and Spirits as well as soft drinks.

Return to Tunbridge Wells West will be between 21:30 and 22:00 and the ideal time to take an image next to the fabulous Sir Keith Park locomotive.

The Spa Valley Railway is entirely volunteer led and relies on revenue generated from passengers and events to ensure it survives into the future.

Spa Valley Railway, West Station, Nevill Terrace, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN2 5QY.

To book all day travel tickets and all the Dining in the Weald events while Sir Keith Park is in steam including: ‘Afternoon Tea’ on the 22 August, the ‘Kent Gin Train’ on 14 and 15 August and ‘A Taste of Faulty Towers’ dining experience on 28th August visit www.spavalleyrailway.co.uk

The website also has details of all other events taking place throughout the rest of the year including:

• A Taste of Faulty Towers – The Dining Experience on 25 September 2021
• 10th Real Ale & Cider Festival! 1st, 2nd & 3rd October 2021
• Murder Mystery Fish & Chip Supper 9th October 2021
• “All Aboard” THE POLAR EXPRESS™ at the Spa Valley Railway December 2021