For 2025’s Railway 200 celebration of two centuries of UK railways take this opportunity to follow in the footsteps of Ashford’s railway pioneers.
This tour will, quite literally, guide you along the route that the town’s first railway workers took. See where the pioneers of railway life lived and worked. Discover how and, more importantly, why the South Eastern Railway company chose to build their workshops here, experience South East England’s only railway village and hear stories of George Stephenson, Joseph Baxendale, Samuel Beazley, James L’Anson Cudworth, Alexander Beattie and many more of Ashford’s railway pioneers.
Hosted by Ann (a railway historian and Ashford native) the tour is conducted at a leisurely pace, lasts for around 90 minutes and is approximately 2 miles in distance. Participant numbers are limited to 12, meaning that you get the chance to take the tour at a relaxed pace and ask as many questions as you like.
Whether you’re a dedicated railway enthusiast or simply fancy some history with your walk, you’re bound to discover something new along the way. Pre-booking is required.