March 2025
A New Chapter for the Trust
As we step into 2025, the Elham Valley Line Trust is embarking on an exciting new chapter. After more than four decades of preserving railway history and countryside heritage, we are refreshing our identity whilst staying true to the values that have guided us since 1984.
The trust was originally formed by a group of passionate local historians determined to preserve the memory of the Elham Valley railway line, which ran from Canterbury to Folkestone between 1889 and 1947. What began as a small preservation effort has grown into a thriving heritage centre with two distinct sites, a nature trail, and a calendar of events that draws visitors from across Kent and beyond.
Our new name reflects the broader scope of what we offer today. While the railway remains at our heart, George's Barn and the Countryside Centre have become equally important parts of our story. The 290-year-old barn, rescued from the Channel Tunnel construction site, now houses a remarkable collection of rural tools, crafts and household items that bring the past to life.
Looking ahead, we have ambitious plans for the coming years. These include improving accessibility across both sites, expanding our educational programmes, and continuing to develop our partnership with the Wheels of Time network of Kent heritage sites.
None of this would be possible without our incredible volunteers who give their time so generously. If you would like to be part of this new chapter, we would love to hear from you.
