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Kent & East Sussex Railway Crowned Kent’s Best Family Experience

The Kent & East Sussex Railway has been named Best Family Experience in Kent at the 2025 Muddy Stilettos Awards, held in partnership with NFU Mutual Ashford, Tenterden and Whitfield.

Based in Tenterden, the much-loved heritage railway—celebrating its 50th anniversary last year—was one of five finalists in this newly introduced category, which recognises outstanding independent lifestyle businesses across the UK.

This award adds to a growing list of accolades for the railway, the most recent being recognition from TripAdvisor.

“We’re absolutely over the moon to receive this award,” said Robin Coombes, General Manager of K&ESR. “A heartfelt thank you to everyone who voted for us. We’re incredibly proud to offer experiences that delight visitors of all ages. This award confirms that we’re achieving our mission: to provide authentic, fun, and memorable days out.”

As the regional winner, the Kent & East Sussex Railway now progresses to the National Finals. Winners will be handpicked by Muddy Stilettos Editors, with the national champions announced on 25 June 2025.

The 2025 Muddy Awards reached over 11 million people nationwide, attracting half a million nominations and votes across 21 categories in 35 Muddy Stilettos regions.

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