Spa Valley Railway
The Spa Valley Railway is a 5½-mile standard-gauge heritage railway running between Royal Tunbridge Wells West (Kent) and Eridge (East Sussex), with cross-platform interchange to the Network Rail Uckfield Line at Eridge. The line is the surviving section of the former LBSCR Three Bridges to Tunbridge Wells route, closed in 1985.
The Tunbridge Wells & Eridge Railway Preservation Society was formed in 1985 immediately after closure, and the line reopened progressively from 1996 onwards. The 2011 reopening of the connection to Eridge, providing direct national-network interchange, was a particularly important step that has substantially boosted the line's visitor numbers.
History
The TWERPS preservation society was formed in 1985 immediately on closure of the line. After lengthy negotiations and trackbed acquisition, the first preserved trains ran from Tunbridge Wells West to Groombridge in 1996, with extension to High Rocks shortly afterwards. The major 2011 development was reaching Eridge with cross-platform interchange to Network Rail, Spa Valley is one of relatively few heritage lines with direct national-rail connection to London (via Uckfield/Oxted).
Original line history
The line was the LBSCR Three Bridges to Tunbridge Wells route, opened progressively in the 1860s. Tunbridge Wells West (the present preserved terminus) was the LBSCR's station in Tunbridge Wells, built 1866. Passenger services were progressively curtailed from the 1960s, with final closure in 1985.
Stations and infrastructure
Tunbridge Wells West is the eastern terminus, in the original LBSCR engine shed/station complex. Eridge has cross-platform interchange to Network Rail. Groombridge is a charming intermediate stop, and High Rocks serves the popular outdoor venue.
Route and stations
Map: © OpenStreetMap contributors
Special events and operations
Events include steam galas, beer festivals, 1940s weekends, dining trains, and Santa Specials. The line is a popular venue for evening dining trains from London.
Visitor information
Eridge is on the Southern Uckfield Line from London Bridge / Victoria, providing direct interchange. Tunbridge Wells West is a 10-minute walk from Tunbridge Wells Network Rail station.