The South East’s original rail, ale and cider festival is back for its 12th year at the Spa Valley railway in Tunbridge Wells, Kent from 19-22 October with more than 150 cask beers.

The event is held in the Victorian engine shed in association with West Kent CAMRA, and steam and heritage diesel trains will operate throughout the weekend between Tunbridge Wells West and Eridge.

Visitors can enjoy the sights and sounds of more steam than ever before, as Caledonian Railway No. 828 and Hunslet Austerity No. 2890 Douglas will join the heritage diesel Class 25 D7535 hauling trains between Tunbridge Wells West and Eridge. Live music can be enjoyed all afternoon until the event closes on the Sunday. Food stalls will include a BBQ by Fullers Butcher, Thai dishes and all things cheese from the Cheese Shop in Tunbridge Wells.

The main bar will be at Tunbridge Wells West and beers and ciders will also be available at Groombridge and Eridge stations plus on board all the trains.

Spa Valley commercial manager Jonnie Pay said: “This is one of the most important annual events for the railway as it raises essential funds to help us keep the railway running for all to enjoy. It’s also a very popular event which allows us to invite other local businesses to provide food, drink and entertainment for our visitors.”

New for 2023 will be a preview evening on Thursday 19 October between 18.00-22.00 at Tunbridge Wells West. Adult entry is £5 but trains will not be operating.

Entry to the beer festival itself is free on Friday, Saturday & Sunday. Trains will run from 09.00 until 22.30 on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

The bar will be open 18.00-22.00 on Thursday, 11.00-22.30 on Friday and 11.00-18.30 on Saturday.

Train tickets for one day’s unlimited travel are £20 per adult, £10 for a child, and a family group ticket for £45.

All tickets available at www.spavalleyrailway.co.uk