The Spa Valley Railway in Kent is offering a unique summer day out combining vintage steam and diesel train rides with vineyard visits, starting at just £10 per ticket. The railway runs from Tunbridge Wells West station to High Rocks and Groombridge, with services timed to align with wine tastings at two local vineyards throughout July, August, and September.
Two Wine Train Options Available
Passengers can choose between two journeys. The first costs £10 per ticket (children go free) and takes travelers from Tunbridge Wells West to Groombridge Station, followed by a 35-minute countryside walk to Birchden Vineyards. The 23-acre vineyard, described by Spa Valley Railway as 'a little slice of heaven,' produces wine, honey, and apple juice. Visitors can explore the vineyard for free or book a guided tour and tasting session for an additional £35, booked separately. The 60- to 90-minute tour includes three wine samples: The Gregarious Goose (still Bacchus white), The Foxy Vixen (still Pinot Noir rosé), and The Charmed Finch (sparkling Pinot Noir rosé), ending at the Tasting Den for more food and drink.
Alternative Journey to Wildwood Vineyard
The second option is a £12 train ride from Tunbridge Wells to Eridge Station, just a 10-minute walk from Wildwood Vineyard. This award-winning, family-owned vineyard features a small orchard, physic garden, wild woods, and a bubbling stream. The 90-minute tour and guided tasting costs £20 per person, with an optional Sussex Cheese Plate for an additional £12. Both vineyards have received positive reviews online, with Birchden called 'magical,' 'idyllic,' and 'delightful,' while Wildwood is praised as 'reasonably priced,' 'beautiful,' and 'fantastic.'
Booking and Travel Tips
Train tickets must be booked via the Spa Valley Railway website, while vineyard tours are booked separately on each vineyard's website. Previous attendees recommend checking tour availability aligns with train times before booking. The railway runs vintage steam and diesel locomotives, and journeys will be a combination of both. For those who prefer other spirits, Spa Valley Railway also offers gin and whisky trains this summer.
Getting There from London
Trains run regularly from London to Royal Tunbridge Wells from Charing Cross, Waterloo East, or London Bridge, taking about an hour. From Tunbridge Wells main station, it's a 15-minute walk, bus, or taxi ride to Tunbridge Wells West station.
