A Brief History of The Bredgar & Wormshill Light Railway

Our railway is not a preserved line. Starting in 1975 it was built from scratch by a group of friends and now blends well into the North Kent Downs. Initially a small industrial diesel locomotive was purchased. This was soon joined by others, but it was not until 1979 that ‘Bronhilde’, our first steam engine arrived. In the meantime sheds had been built, track laid and carriages constructed. As time went on and more locomotives moved to Bredgar, projects became more ambitious. The mainline was re-laid, a proper station built and boogie coaches were designed and constructed.

By the late 1980s the railway had grown out of all recognition. A sizable new locomotive and stock shed with a turntable replaced the original structure. Warren Wood station had been completely rebuilt and a new station deep in the woods had been added.

The selection of locomotives brought to Bredgar has expanded and now represents narrow gauge systems from many parts of the world.

As our railway developed, complementary attractions were added: traction engines, a steam roller, vintage cars, miniature locos and a model railway. All have historical significance and a unique appeal.

The main objective of the railway is the preservation of steam locomotives in a form which enables railway enthusiasts, the general public and children to appreciate how important this type of energy was to industry for over 100 years. For obvious reasons the locomotives cannot be shown undertaking the industrial duties for which they were built but all have been restored to their original specifications and are run as part of small goods or passenger trains. To this end the passenger coaches have a period look and the collection of goods vehicles is varied. Warren Woods Station is situated near the main Hollingbourne to Sittingbourne road, about a mile south of Bredgar village. The station is the headquarters of the railway where the workshops, locomotive shed, tearoom and toilets are situated.

Many of the original group of friends are still responsible for the railway and other attractions. We hope their enthusiasm, skill and dedication provide you with an enjoyable day out.

For a more in depth possible history read more here.

The Tearoom & Railway Shop

No Visit to our railway would be complete without sampling the delight of the Tearoom.

Visitors are delighted at the warm and friendly welcome from the Tearoom Staff. We open for business before the first train departs – so why not call in for some light refreshment prior to your railway journey.

In addition to tea, coffee and soft drinks there is a variety of food available including filled rolls, hot buttered toast, toasted tea cakes, confectionery and fresh fruit. Ice cream is also on sale, especially welcome on those hot summer days. A wide range of delicious home made cakes have long been a star attraction in the Tearoom. Their popularity is renowned and they are a treat not to be missed by young and old alike.

There is seating available in the cozy surroundings of the Tearoom, but many also enjoy the outside seating areas where they can soak up the atmosphere of the day and listen to the music of the Dutch Street Organ.

Next door you will find our Railway Shop where we have a large stock of model locomotives, tractors, planes and cars. There is a wide range of other toys for outdoor and indoor games. For young children there are soft toys, colouring books and crayons available. You will also find postcards, collectables and stationery items.

We have some excellent large size photos of our trains in action which are suitable for framing.

Christopher Vine’s wonderful series of Peter’s Railway books are also stocked.

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