Experience heritage steam, family fun days, themed weekends and festive magic at the Sittingbourne & Kemsley Light Railway this year! Based in Kent, this unique narrow-gauge line runs original steam and diesel trains between Sittingbourne Viaduct and Kemsley Down — and there’s something for all ages from Easter through to Christmas.
For general visitor info — including what to expect on your visit, what to see & do and planning your trip — head to the official SKLR website:
👉 https://www.sklr.net/visiting-us/what-to-expect/
👉 https://www.sklr.net/visiting-us/what-to-see-do/
And follow along on Facebook for regular news and updates throughout the year:
👉 https://www.facebook.com/SandKLR/
📅 Dates: Good Friday – Easter Monday
🚂 What to expect: Steam trains, Easter egg hunts, seasonal events and more.
🔗 Full details as published: https://www.sklr.net/timetable-fares/special-events/easter/
Before the public train season begins, Work Weekends take place, where volunteers and visitors can help care for the railway. These are great for enthusiasts and supporters to see behind-the-scenes railway maintenance.
📅 Dates: Various weekends early in the year (check SKLR website for specific 2026 dates)
📍 Sittingbourne Viaduct & Kemsley Down
🔗 More info as available on the SKLR Special Events calendar.
A special “behind the scenes” event gives visitors a closer look at the work that goes into running the railway. Trains and depot areas are open with commentary and staff talks. Check the timetable as dates are confirmed.
🔗 SKLR Special Events calendar: https://www.sklr.net/timetable-fares/special-events/
Dress up and join in pirate-themed fun along the line! Pirate characters, family activities and themed train services make this a favourite with younger visitors. Dates are published on the SKLR website.
🔗 Details: https://www.sklr.net/timetable-fares/special-events/
Celebrate heritage steam and enjoy a day of music, ales & rides! The Steam & Beer Festival is a highlight of the season — with live music, refreshments, food and steam train rides.
📅 27 + 28 June 2026
📍 Kemsley Down
🔗 Festival info: https://www.sklr.net/timetable-fares/special-events/
Step back in time at this themed weekend with Old West characters and staged activities along the line as you ride the train and visit the settlement encampment — family fun with a historic twist.
📅 Date: Summer weekend (details TBA)
🔗 Event page: https://www.sklr.net/timetable-fares/special-events/
Car and transport fans will enjoy the club’s afternoon meet featuring classic and historic vehicles alongside heritage trains. Dates are usually confirmed in the spring.
🔗 Event calendar: https://www.sklr.net/timetable-fares/special-events/
The season round-off with steam and diesel traction, special displays and multiple trains operating across the weekend. Fun for enthusiasts and families alike.
📅 Dates: 26 +27 September 2026
🔗 Full details: https://www.sklr.net/timetable-fares/special-events/gala/
Get into the festive spirit with Santa aboard the SKLR! These special trains include a visit to Santa’s Grotto with presents for children, festive refreshments and seasonal cheer. Dates run on weekends through December right up to Christmas.
📅 Typically: Weekends and selected days in December
🎄 What to expect: Santa’s Grotto, gifts, and festive train rides.
🔗 Details & tickets: https://www.sklr.net/timetable-fares/special-events/santa/
Whether you’re a steam enthusiast, local family or visitor from further afield, the Sittingbourne & Kemsley Light Railway calendar gives you loads of reasons to hop aboard in 2026! From Easter steam days to summer festivals, themed weekends, and the magic of Christmas trains, there’s something all year long.
🔗 SKLR official site for bookings and updates: https://www.sklr.net/
🔗 SKLR Facebook for live news: https://www.facebook.com/SandKLR/
Go to the SKLR website https://www.sklr.net/timetable-fares/fares-tickets/
Address
Events at Sittingbourne & Kemsley Light Railway – 2026 Sittingbourne Viaduct Station, The Wall, Sittingbourne Retail Park, Sittingbourne, Kent
