Join us for a 2 Day spectacular event celebrating our Autumn Gala, on Saturday 17th & Sunday 18th October 2026.

A special weekend showcasing the ‘mainline in miniature’ that is the RH&DR!

For this event, all available RH&DR steam locomotives will be in service plus our diesel engine, J B Snell.

Pre-book your tickets online to avoid the queues, or just turn up at our ticket offices on the day!

Visiting Engines: Northern Rock & Soony

We are pleased to announce the star visitor to our Autumn Gala Weekend will be “Northern Rock” from the Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway. The event which takes place on the 17th and 18th October will see “Northern Rock” visit the RH&DR for the very first time since it was built 50 years ago.

“Northern Rock” has been celebrating its 50th Anniversary throughout 2026.

Constructed at Ravenglass in 1976 with an attractive narrow gauge outline the locomotive quickly became the R&ER’s flagship locomotive and the mainstay of their services. The design of the locomotive was directly influenced by a visit of the RH&DR’s “Northern Chief” to Ravenglass in 1971. The design proved to be so successful two sister engines were built for a railway in Japan. “Northern Rock” will be hauling trains between Hythe and New Romney.

Visiting alongside “Northern Rock” will be “Soony” from the Perrygrove Railway Adventure. A different scale locomotive to what normally operates at the RH&DR but has an enthusiastic following throughout the UK. “Soony” will be offering shorter rides starting from New Romney station.

The Full Clark Returns!

As well as the trains, the popular “Full Clark” real ale & cider bar will be open at New Romney station, showcasing a selection of drinks from local Kentish breweries. A list of the breweries supplied will be available in due course!

Keep an eye out on our website nearer the Gala for our ‘Enthusiasts’ timetable, which provides detailed locomotives and coach set workings.

All times, locomotive turns and event details are subject to change or cancellation without notice.

Tickets & Times

Saturday 17th October 2026 Sunday 18th October 2026