The first train to run on the Marshlink line was a service from Ashford to Hastings via Rye on 13 February 1851.
Marshlink community rail partnership wanted to mark the 175th anniversary of the line with a celebration on 13 February 2026.
A small event had been held at Rye station in 2025 for the 174th anniversary as part of the Railway 200 celebrations. This year, we were determined to go one better.
Marshlink community rail line officer Paul Bromley asked for ideas at a meeting of the Marshlink CRP steering group.
One suggestion was for an on-board celebration to mark the 175th anniversary. He liaised with Southern and station managers seeking permission for an event on a Marshlink train on the anniversary date.
Southern agreed to the event, allowing us to reserve the First Class compartment, put up bunting and window stickers to provide a celebratory atmosphere and provide refreshments (branded cupcakes and soft drinks). The train operator also provided rail warrants to allow community representatives to join the train as it recreated the original route.
Approximately 35 invited guests joined the anniversary train, mingling with regular passengers. A ‘medallion’ of mayors hopped on board with the civic representatives from Hastings, Rye and Ashford travelling on the service. The mayor of Hastings welcomed passengers to the service and explained its significance over the public address system.
The deputy mayor of Winchelsea and townsfolk came to the station to see the service arrive and depart, waving union flags and offering support.
The result was a positive experience and a ‘party’ atmosphere on board a train travelling along the Marshlink line.
There were plenty of conversations and opportunities to meet others working to promote the route for tourism and leisure as well as wider connectivity to the region. It was a chance to reward the station volunteers for making their area welcoming and attractive.
There was widespread publicity for the event including The Argus [link], Rye News [link] and trade press such as Rail Technology Magazine [link].
Line officer Paul Bromley compiled a video of the celebrations [link] which has been shown on board the Railway 200 Inspiration train during its visits to the area.
‘A splendid celebration of a vital community asset’
‘So encouraging the turnout was so big showing how much the community value their rail service’