About
The Sittingbourne and Kemsley Light Railway is the preserved southern half of the former Bowater’s Railway, built to move the raw materials for paper-making and the finished products around the mill at Kemsley Down station. In 2007, paper production ceased at Sittingbourne Mill and the railway stopped operating, but in 2010 services resumed, with Sittingbourne Viaduct station opening in 2012.
Dog Access and Rules
Dogs are welcome on The Sittingbourne & Kemsley Light Railway. You do need to be aware that, as this is a steam railway, there’s a lot of noise and it can be busy.
You have water bowls at both stations, and dogs travel free.
Things To See & Do
This was an industrial steam railway, so you will be carried over the industrial outskirts of Sittingbourne and Milton Regis on the century-old Milton Regis Viaduct, then through Milton Creek Country Park and under the Swale Way road bridge before crossing the marshes into Kemsley Paper Mill, where Kemsley Down station is located.
Aside from our collection of historic steam and diesel locomotives, coaches and wagons, the Railway has plenty for you to see and do during your visit.
If you want to extend your visit, there is a pedestrian gate linking Kemsley Down station to the Saxon Shore Way, turning left heads towards the Swale Estuary, whilst right takes you to Milton Creek Country Park.
Access and Facilities
There is a large car park by Sittingbourne Viaduct Station but there is no public road access to Kemsley Down Station, only access for pedestrians to and from the Saxon Shore Way.
Kemsley Down Station is the main site with toilets, cafe, shop, picnic area, play areas, and engine sheds.
