Heritage trains and model railways return to Spa Valley Railway this autumn
Families, railway enthusiasts and first-time visitors can enjoy a weekend of heritage train travel, detailed model railway layouts and specialist trade stands when the annual Autumn Model Railway Show returns to Spa Valley Railway’s Tunbridge Wells West Station on 19 and 20 September 2026.
Children aged 2 to 15 travel free with a fare-paying adult, making the event a great-value day out for families.
Visitors can ride full-size heritage trains, meet model railway enthusiasts and explore intricate miniature worlds throughout the weekend both on and off the trains.
The show will feature more than 30 layouts, specialist traders, family activities and attractions across the line. All-day tickets include unlimited train travel, giving visitors time to explore scenic walks, cafes and pubs, shops and local attractions in and around Tunbridge Wells during their visit.
Jonnie Pay, General Manager at Spa Valley Railway, said: “The weekend brings together railway enthusiasts, modellers and families for one of the South East’s most popular model railway events.
“It is a relaxed, family-friendly weekend with plenty for enthusiasts, collectors and first-time visitors to discover, from detailed miniature scenes to heritage trains running along the line.”
Exhibitions will be staged inside the Engine Shed at Tunbridge Wells West, with additional layouts at Groombridge and Eridge. Selected trains will also feature model railways on board, making the journey part of the show.
From detailed branch lines and bustling stations to countryside scenes and engineering displays, the layouts span a wide range of scales and gauges, including N, OO, O, OO9 and S. Whether you are a lifelong modeller or looking for a family day out, there will be something to capture your imagination.
Specialist traders will offer model railway supplies, locomotives, rolling stock, accessories and expert advice for collectors, experienced modellers and anyone starting a new project.
Families can also join the popular Model Railway Hunt, following clues around the railway for the chance to win a prize.
An intensive two-train heritage service will run during the event, with Southern Railway Bulleid Pacific 34053 “Sir Keith Park” scheduled to be one of the locomotives in operation.
The show will be open from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm on Saturday 19 September and Sunday 20 September 2026.
The Spa Valley Railway Model Railway Show offers a memorable weekend for railway enthusiasts, families and visitors of all ages.
Tickets cost £16 for adults with accompanying children (2-15) travelling for FREE, £15 for seniors aged 60 and over, £9 for unaccompanied children under 15, and £32 for a family ticket covering two adults and up to four children.
Advance booking is recommended. Subject to availability, tickets can also be purchased from the ticket office at Tunbridge Wells West on the day of travel. For tickets and further information, visit www.spavalleyrailway.co.uk.
Other Spa Valley Railway experiences are available on selected dates, including dining trains and themed events.
