Families are invited to tumble down the rabbit hole this August Bank Holiday as Spa Valley Railway in Tunbridge Wells transforms into a wonderfully chaotic Wonderland on rails, with steam-train magic, live characters, hands-on fun and classic British charm creating an unforgettable day out.
Mainline trains arrive in Tunbridge Wells from Hastings and London and it’s just a short walk to the heritage railway round the corner from the famous Pantiles. Trains also arrive from London at Eridge Station where you can cross the platform to pick up a steam train to Tunbridge Wells.
The Alice’s Wonderland Express departs from Tunbridge Wells West at 10:00, 11:30 and 13:55 on Saturday, 29th, Sunday, 30th, and Monday, 31st August, returning for more Wonderland fun on Saturday, 5th and Sunday, 6th September 2026.
This event is brought to you by PNP Events Ltd. The operators of THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride at Spa Valley Railway.
New for summer 2026, the adventure begins with royal mayhem as the Queen of Hearts’ Royal Train breaks down, sending her stomping and grumbling through Wonderland. Alice, the White Rabbit and the Mad Hatter must race against time to prepare for her arrival — but in true Wonderland style, absolutely nothing is going to plan. Important words have disappeared, riddles need solving, a maze must be mastered, and curious surprises are waiting around every corner.
As the steam train winds through the countryside, young passengers can dive into a series of themed activities in their booklet, from colouring the Queen’s roses red to creating royal decorations and helping turn the train into a carriage fit for Wonderland royalty. Every completed challenge earns a Royal Railway Stamp, bringing children one step closer to saving the day before the Queen arrives.
Packed with colour, comedy and interactive storytelling, the experience promises families a magical day out at Spa Valley Railway in Tunbridge Wells, Kent.
Perfect for children and grown-ups alike, The Queen of Hearts Royal Train brings together live character encounters, imaginative activities and the nostalgic thrill of heritage rail travel. Tickets are available now, and visitors are encouraged to book early for this limited summer adventure.
Alongside the entertainment on board, visitors can make the most of the day with hot, cold and alcoholic drinks, plus light refreshments from the bar or buffet car.
Train tickets: Adult – £24, Senior (60+) – £20, Child (2-15yrs) – £14, Family (2 Adults + 2 Children) £62.
Advance booking is highly recommended. If tickets remain available, they can also be purchased from the ticket office on the day of travel at Tunbridge Wells West: www.spavalleyrailway.co.uk
Dining experiences are also available to book in advance for dates across the summer including Afternoon Tea, Cream Tea, Fish and Chip, Ploughman’s and Sausage and Mash events, as well as popular themed experiences such as Whisky Trains, Gin Trains, Cheese Trains, Murder Mystery evenings and Faulty Towers dining events.
Spa Valley Railway, West Station, Nevill Terrace, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN2 5QY.
