19-07-2025
Southeastern train depot to open for one day only for tours and family fun
Rare access to a train depot is being offered to the public for a one-day-only event.
Southeastern is opening the doors to its Ashford Train Maintenance Centre in Kent on Sunday, August 24, as part of Railway 200, a nationwide celebration marking 200 years of passenger rail in the UK.
The railway depot open day will offer visitors the chance to explore one of the busiest and most important train maintenance sites in the south-east.
Visitors can explore trains, meet staff, and view heritage locomotives (Image: Southeastern) Jim Shead, depot manager at Ashford, said: "We are incredibly proud of the hard work which goes on behind the scenes at Ashford every single day and this open day is a fantastic opportunity to show what it takes to keep delivering a reliable service for our customers.
"In addition to the opportunity to see a variety of trains and provide a huge range of fun activities for adults and children, we also want to demonstrate the variety of rewarding careers available in the railway.
"But, space is limited and we expect this special event to sell out quickly so buy your tickets today."
The event will feature a wide range of activities and displays, including a walk through the maintenance shed where visitors can see Southeastern trains up close.
Trains on display will include the special Railway 200 train, the Class 395 'Javelin,' and the Network SouthEast Networker.
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The outdoor operational yard will also showcase a selection of heritage and specialist trains, including the Clan Line steam engine, a Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MPV), the Hastings Diesel 'Thumper', a Balfour Beatty Tamper, Class 73 and Class 66 locomotives, and the Bluebell Railway's 'Stepney' locomotive.
The depot will also host stands and exhibitions highlighting two centuries of railway history, as well as the many roles and career opportunities available in the rail industry.
Southeastern's recruitment team will be on hand to talk to those interested in joining the railway, while teams focused on customer safeguarding and safety will share insights into their work.
Network Rail's Margate safety team will also be present to promote rail safety.
The Kent Fire & Rescue Service will be in attendance, and model train enthusiasts will enjoy a dedicated Hornby stand featuring the Railway 200 high-speed train.
Visitors can also explore the AIMREC Model Railway and meet representatives from the Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch Railway and the Kent and East Sussex Railway.
For younger visitors, there will be family-friendly activities including miniature roundabout rides.
Motorsport fans will have the chance to meet Southeastern employee and racing driver Toby Trice and see his Porsche Cayman.
While the organisers aim to make the site as accessible as possible, they note that full accessibility cannot be guaranteed due to the depot's operational nature.
There is no general parking available, and attendees are encouraged to arrive by train at Ashford International and walk to the depot.
Limited accessible parking will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Southeastern has confirmed that it will not make a profit from ticket sales.
Proceeds will go toward covering event costs, with all remaining funds donated to five Railway 200 charities: Alzheimer's Research UK, Railway Benefit Fund, Railway Children, Railway Mission, and the Transport Benevolent Fund CIO.
The open day will run from 10am to 4pm.
Visitors are advised to check train services ahead of travelling to ensure prompt arrival.
