It was “all aboard” for the 12.45 from Tunbridge Wells West yesterday when we took MGSE participants to the Spa Valley Railway to enjoy a train ride and a traditional Fish & Chip lunch while viewing the Kent countryside.
The trip to Tunbridge Wells took place on Day 4 of this year’s Mini Group Study Exchange (MGSE) – a great opportunity for railway enthusiasts from our club to join in, visit the venue, and enjoy a ride.
Spa Valley Railway has been operating trains through the High Weald since 1997 and offers a variety of excursions. We took the green timetable train, which runs between Tunbridge Wells West and Eridge, passing High Rocks and Groombridge along the way – a round trip of around an hour.
We gathered at the station – a charming spot with green and cream décor and signage – before boarding the train and finding our pre-allocated seats in carriage C. (We passed a steam engine on our way.) Our welcome at the station by a suited and booted Station Master was followed by a warm greeting on board from staff in green and white aprons. At each table in the nostalgic carriage, with its wood panelling and green-and-cream upholstery, we found little place-markers. Announcements over the old-fashioned PA system signalled our departure, and within minutes staff were serving pre-ordered fish and chips (with veggie burgers and chips for the vegetarians) along with drinks.
The MGSE participants from across Europe enjoyed the sights of the English countryside – even spotting antlered deer, including an albino male, along the way. Conversations ranged from school trips to hypnotism, cruises, and reflections on the week so far. A few travellers hopped off briefly at a station en route to snap a quick photo.
All too soon we were heading back to Tunbridge Wells West – we had been enjoying each other’s company so much that time flew by. Before parting ways, we squeezed in a quick group shot: the MGSE participants then went on to visit the BBC while the rest of us returned home.
Picture: A quick group shot at the end of the trip. Picture credit: Rotary Club of Canterbury.
