If you fancy stepping into a storybook with the kids this summer, this magical train ride in Kent might just be your kids’ ticket to Wonderland.
Alice’s Wonderland Express is rolling into the Spa Valley Railway in Tunbridge Wells, bringing a delightfully chaotic, family-friendly adventure inspired by Lewis Carroll’s classic tale – complete with curious characters, interactive challenges, and plenty of steam-powered charm.
All aboard this heritage steam train ride in Kent rolling into the Spa Valley Railway in Tunbridge Wells
Running on select dates between late August and early September, this immersive experience begins the moment you board at Tunbridge Wells West station. From there, things quickly spiral into classic Wonderland madness.
The Queen of Hearts’ Royal Train has broken down (uh oh), and she’s not exactly known for her patience. As she stomps her way through Wonderland, it’s up to Alice, the White Rabbit, the Mad Hatter and you to get everything back on track before she arrives.
Expect riddles, surprises, and plenty of playful problem-solving along the way.
This isn’t just a sit-back-and-enjoy-the-view kind of journey. Each passenger gets an activity booklet filled with curious tasks to complete as the story unfolds.
Kids will be colouring roses red, solving puzzles, and helping transform the train into a royal carriage worthy of the Queen herself.
Complete the challenges and they can earn Royal Railway Stamps because no Wonderland mission is complete without a few eccentric rewards.
Alice’s Wonderland Express is the perfect family day out near London
The experience is brought to life aboard a heritage steam train, so you’ll get all the nostalgic sights and sounds to go with the storytelling, think whistles echoing down the line and clouds of steam drifting past the windows.
There’ll also be opportunities to snap photos with your favourite characters, making it a solid pick for a wholesome family day out (or just a slightly surreal one).
Because it wouldn’t be Wonderland without a little indulgence, every passenger gets a slice of cake and a drink included in their ticket.
There are options for different dietary requirements too, just make sure to flag these when booking. And if you fancy more, the onboard bar and buffet car will be serving up additional refreshments throughout the journey.
Plan your visit to Alice’s Wonderland Express
Alice’s Wonderland Express departs at 10:00, 11:30 and 13:55 on 29, 30 and 31 August, and 5 and 6 September 2026.
Tickets are priced at £24 for adults, £20 for seniors, £14 for children, and £62 for a family of four. They also include access to other trains running on the Spa Valley Railway that day, so you can make a full day of it.
As expected, this one’s likely to be popular, so booking in advance is a good idea.
Located in Tunbridge Wells, the Spa Valley Railway is a five-mile heritage line and one of Kent’s best-loved attractions and this summer, it’s getting a decidedly whimsical makeover.
