I have always wanted to dine on a steam train but it just seemed to be one of those things that sat on the list of dream 'to do' but never actually materialised. Well this summer that all changed and we decided to have a sophisticated grown up treat for two. The whole experience didn't disappoint and even now as I write several week later, I remember the bubbles of excitement as we took our seats and departed.
The Spa Valley Railway is situated not far from the main Royal Tunbridge Wells station, we took a slow wonder through the pretty town centre when were arrived where there was an array of independant shops, hanging flower baskets and trendy eateries. A pleasant summer evening that had a gentle mellow vibe.
We arrived early but there are a lot of quirky things to see at the cute Spa Valley station. Inside you feel like you are stepping back into a bygone era with everything painted green and cream. Old timetables and signs plaster the walls, historical nuggets and displays of cinema carriages and 1950's childrens rides are laid out in the back rooms. A heavy black dial telephone speaks pre recorded information for you. Even the bathroom made me feel nostalgic! Not only was it super clean but the flowers, pictures and fabrics made me think of a 'Darling Buds of May' experience. I loved everything about this place and it set the tone for a wonderful evening to come.
We went back outside to see our steam train standing proudly at it's departure point while hard working train staff shoveled coal and the heat hung thickly in the surrounding air. A tunnel of steam burst vertically into the blue sky periodically, hissing and whistling powefully. The smell of the coal permeated the platform and as the steam train seemed to be gaining momentum for our upcoming journey our excitement began to grow.
We watched as men in overalls walked down beside the train carrying their shiny silver lunch pails, smiling and joking with one another. We felt as though we were observers of a past time.
Moments later, two bubbly ladies approached us with a clipboard in hand and marked us as 'present', letting us know where our seats were and apologising that there was a little walk. There was no apology needed, our seats were at the front of the train so we took a slow meander down there taking in the glory of this old steamer. Another smartly dressed lady welcomed us onto the carriage and my heart gave a little leap. The carriage was better than I had imagined, dark wood, green curtains at each window and comfy patterned seats awaited us. I now felt I was in a Miss Marple episode and I knew that this had already exceeded my expectations for something special.
Because of the pandemic we had ordered our drinks in advance but we realised that ours were incorrect when we sat down, another friendly member of the team replaced these within moments without fuss or question which was fabulous. I must say that the cost of all the drinks was exceptionally reasonable. I opted for a local cider and I appreciated that the Spa Valley could have increased their prices having a captive audience but they didn't. It felt very honest and my heart warmed at this thought thay we were treated not just as paying customers but as valued customers.
Our aperitif was waiting for us already when we boarded, a gorgeous rich sherry along with our canapes, tomato, olive and pineapple kebabs, delicious veggie samosas and cheese balls wrapped in herbs. YUM. After we had nibbled our way through these the whistle sounded and the 'chugga chugga' clanking and whirring took pace, we were off!
We had been told to expect thunderstorms on the weatherfront but as it turned out, the sun glittered for us the entire time and we were able to look on the beauty of the surrounding area through our curtain framed window. I couldn't stop beaming.
Our starter of aubergine pate with caremelised onion was served swiftly and was packed full of flavour. We passed beautiful Groombridge Place station, a day trip we intend to do on the Spa Valley railway another time so that we may explore Groombridge Place and the Enchanted Forest www.groombridgeplace.com
Our journey continued onto Eridge Station where workers busied themselves looking after our steamer with lovel and attention while we continued our main course. We tucked into a huge squash, mushroom and chestnut pastry with a tomato gracy, potatoes and vegetables. Everything tasted so fresh and full of flavour. I was so pleased that the vegetarian option had been given as much care and attention as the meat options.
By the time we arrived back at the Spa Valley station we were feeling satisfied, pudged and relaxed. A quick toilet break was encouraged here before it was all aboard again for one last journey. There was a longer time period between courses at this point for which we were glad and we were able to watch as the light lowered and the surrounding countryside took on a coppery coloured hue as we chugged past.
At Eridge we all departed to stretch our legs, watch how the steam train was tended to and to take photos in the last of the summer light.
On our final board we were served cake with fruit and the train motion lulled its passengers into a journey of calm and contentment. High Weald Belle Dinner Train, wonderful service, nostalgic charm, elegant dining and lots of exquisite memories. There are so many delightful themed days to try and we can't wait to try them!
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