We are now closed for the winter, but will re open for rides on Sunday 29th March 2026 13:00 - 16:00 - Timetable available here
Welcome
The Gravesend Model Marine and Engineering Society (GMMES) is a small friendly club, whose home track is situated in North Kent overlooking the estuary of the river Thames. Our miniature steam railway offers train rides for children and adults every Sunday afternoon from 1:00pm until 4:00pm (times vary for Special events), from early spring to late autumn (British summer time). We have a fine 1218ft. long raised track, catering for 3½" & 5" gauge locomotives.
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As well as our normal Sunday afternoon running, throughout the season we hold Special Events (see menu item "Train Rides" then "Special Events"), that attract people from far and wide. The Halloween and Santa runs are particularly popular. Another popular occasion is our annual Charity Event, where the proceeds from all tickets sold on the day are donated to a well known local or national charity. The dates and times for Special Events and normal Sunday running can be checked by going to "Train Rides" then "Timetable" in the main menu.
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Train ride tickets are normally just 50 pence each for children and adults alike, so it doesn't cost a fortune to let your little ones ride all afternoon. If they should get tired of train rides (very unusual), there are swings and slides close by for them to have a break.
Please spend a while exploring our website. We have tried to include something for everyone. Whether you are looking for something to keep the children amused on a Sunday afternoon, or you are a potential new member. Whether you are a member of another model engineering society, or maybe you are already a member of GMMES and need to refresh your memory on club meeting dates etc, we hope you will find something of interest.
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GMMES welcomes Wheelchair visitors. For those able to manage steps there is a buggy and wheelchair compound opposite the ticket office with 5 steps down to the station level where there is also seating. For those unable to cope with steps a track level access area for wheelchair visitors is available
Members
If you are interested in Model Engineering, miniature railways or would like to learn to drive a miniature steam locomotive, you may like to consider joining our Society.
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We are a friendly bunch of men and women at GMMES (5inch gauge model railway based in the grounds of Cascades Leisure Centre, Thong lane Gravesend Kent) We are always ready to welcome new active members. There is no obligation to join but if you do decide to become a member you can become as much or as little involved as you wish. We have a good selection of members who have a variety of skills and knowledge, from tea making to engine building.
Joining us has lots of benefits, plus you make new friends and make a lot of kids very happy.
Get involved with our "Wednesday Gang" who maintain the operating layout of our 5inch gauge track, drink tea/coffee and chat in the clubhouse.
Come up and help out on the Sundays we open to the general public, also the various events and charity runs we do.
How to find us
We are located within the grounds of
Cascades Leisure Centre
Thong Lane
Gravesend
DA12 4LG
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Our railway track can be seen at the top-right of the map with its twists and curves being quite easily visible. Our car park is the grey area to the left of the track surrounded by trees.
Once through the gateway into the Cascades site, you drive straight ahead towards the tall trees. You will notice a low metal fence on your left and a small car park on the right. Continue on past the re-cycling bins directly after which there is an open gateway in the fence. Drive through and park in the main car park. From there, just walk across the grass between the trees to our station. The station is on the side of the track closest to the car park so it's only a few yards.
Parking is free, but please be aware that the car park gates are locked soon after train rides are finished for the day. Also when leaving, please note the roads within the Cascades site are one way, so follow the signs and road markings to the exit gate