Kent’s Spa Valley Railway in Tunbridge Wells is set to host its annual Real Ale & Cider Festival, from Thursday, October 16 to Sunday, October 19 2025.
Marking its 14th year, this popular event for ale and cider fans brings together a huge variety of locally-sourced ales, beers and ciders, all within the setting of Kent’s 180-year-old vintage railway line that was once part of the Wealden line.
This popular event for ale and cider fans brings together a huge variety of locally-sourced ales, beers and ciders. (Image: Pennington PR)
Stretching along the heritage line’s scenic five miles between Tunbridge Wells West and Eridge, the festival serves as a unique way to have a drink and take in the scenery of a key part of Kent’s rail history.
This year the festival will bring together an extensive collection of drinks with over 200 real ales from 50 breweries, including over 30 Kent Green Hop beers, 14 keg selections, and at least 70 ciders.
Some of this year’s biggest names include Crouch Vale’s “Amarillo” – CAMRA’s 2024 Beer of Britain – along with Green Hop Stout from Northdown and wooden cask-aged stouts.
There will also be live band music played at Tunbridge Wells West station, as well as buskers at both Groombridge and Eridge.
For foodies, a number of food vendors will also be at the event, including Fuller’s famous BBQ, a Thai street food stall, and Holly’s homemade cakes.
But as for the vintage steam trains themselves, festival-goers can expect to see a lineup of locomotives, from steam giants like Bulleid Pacific 34053 “Sir Keith Park” to vintage diesels including Class 33/0 “R.J. Mitchell”.
Train tickets allow unlimited rides, and the on-board buffet bar and bar car “Kate” mean your pint travels with you.
What you need to know
The festival runs from Thursday, October 17 until Sunday, October 19.
Ticket prices start at £20 for adults and £10 for children.
