Thousands of visitors flock to Ashford's Train Maintenance Centre for a special Railway 200 open day
Gates opened at 10:00, and visitors poured in to enjoy a rare behind-the-scenes glimpse into one of the biggest and busiest depots in the south east.
Over 2,500 people visited Southeastern's Train Maintenance Centre in Ashford on Sunday to take advantage of the opportunity to have a special look around the depot near Ashford International station.
As well as rubbing shoulders with drivers, engineers, maintenance colleagues and volunteers from the wider Southeastern family, visitors were treated to a snapshot of railway history – from heritage trains like the Clan Line steam engine to our own Railway 200 Class 395 'Javelin' train 395015 and the Network SouthEast Networker – 465908.
And for the younger people visiting, there were displays from Hornby, a mini train ride and lots of entertainment stalls on offer. We hope the day will have inspired a lifelong interest in the railway and maybe even encouraged a few to join us when they are old enough to work!
Managing Director Steve White said:
“It was a superb event with great feedback, especially about the number of exhibits, quality of organisation and attitude of our people.”
Head of Engineering Delivery South Ross Balcombe said:
"I think everyone will still be on a high from the day. For me, it was a true testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone in building such a fantastic plan and then executing it so brilliantly.
"I was lucky enough to be able to immerse myself in the event without focusing on the delivery. Everywhere I went, people were clearly having a great time. One real wow moment for me was seeing the look of amazement on people’s faces—young and old alike—when they stepped into the maintenance shed and saw a train lifted in the air.
"Everywhere I turned, there were smiles, laughter, and cameras flashing. Even the long queues in the baking sun—for the Clan Line steam train, the 395-cab visit, or even the food stalls—didn’t dampen anyone’s spirits.
“Everyone involved, both in the planning and on the day itself, should feel immensely proud of what we achieved together.”
Southeastern has plenty more Railway 200 celebrations planned this year, including next month's special Metro Networker Tour - more information on that and the opportunity to book tickets is available below:
Special Networker Metro Tour - 27th September 2025
Image: organiser Jim Shead overlooking some of the trains on display
