Kent & East Sussex Railway Celebrates Major Wins at the Beautiful South Tourism Awards, Here’s All You Need to Know

Published on December 23, 2025

Kent & East Sussex Railway’s momentous achievement has been celebrated at the 2025-2026 Beautiful South Tourism Awards for Excellence, where its “Dwarves of Steam” gala has been awarded the title of Event of the Year. This grand awards ceremony took place in the beautiful city of Brighton on December 9, 2025, where the Dwarves of Steam gala of the Kent & East Sussex Railway won the much-prestigious Gold Award. This gala has been acclaimed against tough competition from other prominent events that took place in the region.

Wealden Pullman Shines in Restaurant of the Year Category
The K&ESR’s reputation for offering exceptional visitor experiences was further solidified with the Wealden Pullman restaurant receiving the Bronze Award in the Restaurant of the Year category. This fine dining experience has become a hallmark of the heritage railway, with its blend of traditional Pullman service and railway nostalgia. The award was accepted by Wealden Pullman volunteers Louise Clark and Kevin Bulled, who were honored to receive the accolade for their team’s dedication to delivering world-class dining aboard the historic train.

For 51 years, the Wealden Pullman has been offering passengers an exceptional culinary journey, providing Sunday lunches, Saturday evening dinners, and special occasion services such as Mothering Sunday and New Year’s Eve celebrations. It has also hosted special charters and weddings, making it a popular choice for both regular visitors and those seeking to celebrate significant moments in an unforgettable setting. The Wealden Pullman is known for its authentic service, with staff dressed in traditional Pullman livery, creating an immersive dining experience that perfectly complements the heritage railway journey.

The popularity of the Wealden Pullman is reflected in its fully booked schedule, often months in advance. Its status as the first heritage railway in the UK to offer Pullman dining has earned it a loyal following, both from locals and tourists seeking a taste of history alongside their meals.

K&ESR’s Continued Recognition in 2025
These latest awards are part of a growing list of accolades for the Kent & East Sussex Railway, which continues to win the hearts of both residents and visitors. Earlier in 2025, the K&ESR was named Best Family Experience in Kent in the Muddy Stilettos Awards, a title awarded entirely through public votes. This win highlighted the railway’s commitment to providing memorable family-friendly experiences that cater to all ages and interests.

Additionally, the K&ESR was honored with the 2025 TripAdvisor Travellers Choice Award for the second consecutive year, placing it in the top 10% of attractions worldwide based on verified visitor reviews. These recognitions affirm the K&ESR’s status as a top tourist destination and showcase the railway’s ability to provide high-quality experiences that resonate with a global audience.

The Heart of K&ESR: Volunteers and Staff
The K&ESR’s success can largely be attributed to the tireless dedication of its staff and army of volunteers, who play an integral role in creating the high-quality experiences that visitors have come to expect. K&ESR Chairman Derrick Bilsby expressed his pride in the railway’s achievements, noting that the awards reflect the exceptional efforts made by everyone involved in the operation.

“Our volunteers and staff are the heart of the K&ESR,” said Bilsby. “These awards recognize the hard work they put into delivering exceptional visitor experiences. The magic of our railway comes from their passion, dedication, and commitment, and these awards are for them.”

The community-focused nature of the K&ESR is also a key factor in its continued success. By fostering a sense of camaraderie and belonging, the railway is able to create an atmosphere that not only attracts tourists but also keeps them coming back. This level of dedication and attention to detail makes the K&ESR a standout in the UK’s tourism landscape.

Tourism Impact: A Growing Destination for Railway Enthusiasts
The K&ESR’s awards and achievements have had a significant impact on tourism in the region. The railway’s success highlights the growing interest in heritage tourism, where visitors seek to connect with the past while enjoying modern amenities. The Dwarves of Steam Gala, in particular, attracted attendees from across the UK, demonstrating the broad appeal of railway heritage events.

The recognition of K&ESR’s attractions is also helping to bring more tourists to the region. As more people discover the charm and history of the Kent & East Sussex Railway, the area is seeing increased foot traffic, benefiting local businesses and tourism-related industries. The popularity of events like the Dwarves of Steam Gala and the fine dining experiences aboard the Wealden Pullman is enhancing the region’s reputation as a top destination for tourists seeking a mix of history, culture, and adventure.

The Future of K&ESR and Heritage Railways

Looking ahead, the Kent & East Sussex Railway is in a very strong position to continue its success. As the heritage railway industry within the UK grows, the combination of historical authenticity and modern-day appeal of K&ESR will undoubtedly make it an even more important destination for railway enthusiasts, families, and tourists alike. With continued attention to delivering outstanding experiences and celebrating the magic of steam railways, the K&ESR is set to remain a cherished part of the UK’s tourism offering for many years to come.