'Pirate Weekend' Train Journey from Sittingbourne Viaduct to Kemsley Down
For all ages • 15 minutes • Sheppey Pirates will be taking over the Railway!
Overview
Activity details
There will be loud noises as they will be firing guns and cannons. We recommend 2 hours for a return trip.
Please note that Captain Jack Sparrow will only be at the Railway on the Sunday of this event.
Your journey starts at Sittingbourne Viaduct station where the railway used to enter the long-demolished paper mill. Trains travel over the century-old reinforced concrete viaduct to Milton Creek Country Park, where it passes through the freshwater and saltwater marshes to arrive at Kemsley Down station within the paper mill.
The journey takes about 15 minutes. Kemsley Down is our main base where the Footplate Cafe, shop, museum, picnic areas and gardens can be found.
You can return on any train, leaving Kemsley Down at 1.35pm, 2.35pm, 3.35pm and 4.45pm.
What's included
- Transport
What's not included
- Food & Drink
Highlights
- This unique line was built in 1905 for the transportation of the raw materials required for the manufacture of paper and, of course, the finished product.
- The line which is built to a gauge of 2′ 6″, continues to use the steam engines and rolling stock that were supplied to operate the railway in its working life prior to preservation in 1969.
- The staff are not original but are all volunteers and new members are always welcome.
Additional information
Check-in details
Please arrive 10 minutes before the departure time. You will be checked in by our ticket inspector or ticket office staff.
What to bring
Please wear sturdy footwear as some of the site is rough & ready.
Well-behaved dogs are welcome, there are water bowls available at both stations.
Special requirements
Any person or dog that is sensitive to fireworks or loud, sudden noises, should not attend this event.
Restrictions
Please wear sturdy footwear as some of the site is rough & ready and may not be suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues.
We are step-free from the car park to the train and there are wheelchair-accessible toilets at both stations.
Disclaimers
The trains do not have toilets, corridors or heating.
Whilst we aim to provide a steam locomotive, we may have to substitute it with a diesel with no notice. Trains may be cancelled at short-notice.
FAQs
Do you have a free car park?
Yes, it is located within Sittingbourne Retail Park (take the first left, then right and it’s on your left) the postcode is ME10 2XD or format.fits.trains on What3Words.
Are dogs welcome?
Yes, well behaved dogs are welcome, we have water bowls at both stations.
Can I buy a single ticket?
Only at the ticket office on the day of travel. Not available on event days.
What is a Rover Ticket?
This ticket supplement will allow you to travel on al the trains that day.
Do I get a reserved seat?
No, you are just buying a ticket in advance, we will endeavour to board you on the next available train.
Can I come back on a later train?
Yes, you can come back on any train that day.
Can I bring a picnic?
Yes, you may - we have a picnic area outside the Footplate Café.
There are a series of ‘What to expect…’ videos on our website which show you the current price lists, fares and details of the coaches, toilets and buildings so you can prepare yourself ahead of time.
Cancellations
Customers cannot cancel and get a full refund.