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

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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.

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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.

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

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“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.”

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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.

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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.