Start the summer with us on Wednesday 29th July. We'll have all your favourites including the chance to learn some circus skills, face painting (of course!) and an activity trail that always leaves mum and dad confused 😂

Our event is free to attend, small charges apply for some activities (marked with an *) but we aim to keep costs to an absolute minimum.

Activities will run throughout the day, unless otherwise stated, so join us for breakfast before the fun begins, or pop in for a late lunch to avoid the midday madness.

Vintage Bus Rally at Tenterden Town Station!

Tenterden Town Station will come alive with a rally featuring over a dozen vintage buses, some offering free rides to local destinations! Enjoy services connecting with trains from Headcorn and Ashford railway stations, and explore a variety of stalls selling vintage memorabilia.

The station is also home to the original Maidstone & District Omnibus Station building from Mill Street, Maidstone. Opened by The Maidstone & District Motor Services Limited on 15th August 1922, it is widely recognised as the first purpose-built bus station in the UK. After remaining in use until 1976, the building was dismantled and donated to the Kent & East Sussex Railway, where it stands today.

Do you own a vintage bus or run a business selling vintage products? Join the rally and be part of this celebration of transport history!

📧 To participate, contact the event organiser: noelmyoung@yahoo.co.uk

This event promises a unique blend of vintage transport, railway heritage, and local charm — perfect for families, enthusiasts, and curious minds alike.

Admission included with standard station entry.

🎅 Santa Specials 2026
Tickets Now On Sale

Step aboard our festive heritage steam train and experience the magic of Christmas with the whole family.

Meet Santa in your carriage, receive a special gift, and enjoy a wonderful festive journey through the countryside.

✨ Everything is included in the price — no hidden extras.

🎄 A Christmas tradition for thousands of families every year
🎟 Limited seats per train – early booking strongly recommended

🎁 What’s Included With Every Ticket

Your Santa Special experience includes:

🚂 75-minute return journey on our heritage steam train
🎅 Meet Santa on board with a personalised gift for every child
👶 Babies under 18 months travel free – and receive a gift too
🎠 Unlimited rides on the vintage gallopers at Tenterden
📸 Free framed family photograph to take home
❄️ Entry to the magical Winter Wonderland at the station
☕ Complimentary hot drink or mulled wine for adults

📷 Don’t forget your camera — magical memories guaranteed.

📅 2026 Santa Special Dates

• Sunday 29 November
• 5 & 6 December
• 12 & 13 December
• 19 & 20 December
• 23 December
• 24 December – Christmas Eve

For those who prefer a calmer experience, the 11:15am train on Sunday 29 November will operate as a Quiet Train.

A wheelchair-accessible coach is available on this service.

✨ Choose Your Christmas Package

All packages include the full Santa Special experience, with additional festive treats depending on your choice.

Bronze Package

A festive and fun Santa Special experience.

🥧 Festive refreshment pack
• Mince pie for adults
• Chocolate bar and soft drink for children

🎩 Live magician entertainment on board
🍫 Chocolates from Santa for older children

Silver Package

Add even more festive magic.

🎄 Join Jingle & Sparkle as they search for the next generation of Spirit Elves
🎅 Elf hat for every guest
📜 Children earn their Diploma of Elfship

Gold Package

Our most magical Christmas experience.

🥂 Unlimited prosecco, beer, alcohol-free or soft drinks served at your seat
🍰 Luxury festive cakes and mince pies
🍫 Character chocolates for children and luxury chocolates for adults

🎟 Book Early to Avoid Disappointment

Santa Specials are extremely popular and many trains sell out weeks in advance.

Give your family a Christmas memory they will treasure forever.

🎄 Book your 2026 Santa Special tickets today.