Hallowe'en thrills and chills on the Kent & East Sussex Railway!
For a generous helping of magical mystery and spooky Hallowe'en surprises to please all the family this October half term head to the Kent & East Sussex Railway (K&ESR).
The Fright Night Express Photo credit: Richard Hatfield
Calling all young witches and wizards!
The Kent & East Sussex Railway (K&ESR) invites aspiring magical apprentices to embark on the enchanting Magic Express. Departing from Tenterden, this steam-hauled adventure promises a journey filled with wizardry and wonder on Tuesday 29th, Wednesday 30th, and Thursday 31st October, with three magical departures each day.
Before boarding the Magic Express, every child will receive an activity pack bursting with wizarding delights. Once aboard, young passengers will be guided by K&ESR's official wizards, who will put their magical skills to the test with engaging riddles and clue-cracking challenges.
Wand control is a must, as apprentices will learn to master ancient incantations from the spell book, and enjoy spellbinding demonstrations along the way.
Practice your wand skills on board
Photo credits: Modus Film
Find wizarding wonders on the Magic Express
Photo credits: Modus Film
Upon returning to Tenterden Station, each child will be awarded an achievement certificate to celebrate their magical journey.
A competition for the best-dressed young witch or wizard adds to the fun, along with numerous photo opportunities to capture these memorable moments, so be sure to have cameras and smartphones at the ready!
The Magic Express experience is designed for families with children aged 5-11 years. The round-trip journey to Wittersham Road and back to Tenterden lasts approximately 50-60 minutes, making it the perfect family day out this Halloween season.
Don't miss your chance to hop aboard for a spellbinding adventure!
Fright Night Express (Thursday 31st October)
Brave Enough for a Spine-Chilling Ride? Hop Aboard the Fright Night Express This Halloween!
For those seeking chills and thrills this Halloween, the Kent & East Sussex Railway (K&ESR) presents the spine-tingling Fright Night Express. Steaming into the darkness on Halloween night, this eerie journey promises an unforgettable experience for families, children aged 6-11, and adults alike.
Don your scariest costumes and get ready for a ride full of surprises—you never know who (or what) might join you along the way! With the perfect eerie atmosphere provided by the steam train, the Fright Night Express will journey into the shadowy Wealden countryside, complete with a haunting whistle echoing through the night. Expect the unexpected as lights flicker and strange noises add to the spooky ambiance.
Special entertainment includes a spectacular fire-eating performance at the start of the journey, setting the tone for a night of frights and delights. Upon arrival at Northiam Station, guests will be treated to a dazzling firework display (weather permitting), accompanied by the rhythmic beats of a drumming troupe.
Prepare for an evening of eerie excitement aboard the Fright Night Express—if you dare!
A spooky train guard awaiting passengers for the Fright Night Express!
Photo credit: Stepstone Imaging
Jaw dropping fire eating displays
Photo credit: Stepstone Imaging
Families are invited to join in free Halloween-themed activities at Tenterden Station from 5:00 PM until the Fright Night Express departs at 6:30 PM.
Little ones can enjoy creative badge-making and Halloween face painting to get into the spooky spirit.
Arriving early also means extra time to savor delicious refreshments, including hot food from the Tea Room. Every child ticket includes a spooky-themed goody bag to enjoy during the journey, and adults can take advantage of the onboard bar for refreshments.
The Fright Night Express is expected to return to Tenterden Town Station at approximately 8:15 PM.
Please note that pre-booking is essential for both the Magic Express and Fright Night Express, and ordinary Freedom tickets are not valid for these special services.
While advance booking for other October half-term services is not required, it will save on ticket prices. For full details and to book online, please visit www.kesr.org.uk.