Train Simulator: Chatham Main & Medway Valley Lines Route Add-On is a simulation title for PC that expands the core Train Simulator experience with a detailed English rail route spanning parts of Kent. This add-on focuses on realistic train operations across historic lines that continue to carry both passenger and freight traffic today. Players handle a selection of locomotives and multiple units on routes that reflect nearly two centuries of railway development in the region.
Gameplay
The core loop centers on operating trains along accurately modeled tracks, stations, and signaling systems. The Chatham Main Line section covers 48 miles from London Victoria through Orpington and Rainham via Kent House and Denmark Hill. The Medway Valley Line adds 27 miles from Strood to Tonbridge, including Tonbridge West Yard, plus a 7-mile stretch from Strood to Gravesend that incorporates Hoo Junction. Semaphore signals remain in place on sections of the Medway Valley Line, with some hand-operated level crossing gates visible at locations such as Cuxton. Passenger services typically use 3-car Class 375/3 Electrostars, while occasional runs involve Class 466 or Class 465 units. Peak-hour services include Southeastern Highspeed Class 395 trains that stop at Snodland en route to or from London St Pancras.
Freight operations feature BR Class 59 locomotives in Blue & Grey or DB Schenker liveries, hauling wagons such as BR JNA, JHA, MEA, MFA, and MXA types in assorted liveries. Multiple units appear in Southeastern Grey Stripe, Blue Stripe, and Dark Blue liveries, along with Southern and ex-Southern variants for Class 377 units. The route supports Quick Drive compatibility, allowing players to select any included locomotive or multiple unit for free-roaming runs on the tracks.
Game Modes
Scenario mode provides structured missions that replicate real service patterns. Included scenarios cover passenger runs such as the 2T19 0904 Tonbridge to Strood and 2T24 1004 Strood to Tonbridge with Class 375 units, along with Class 465 services between Gillingham and London Cannon Street. Freight scenarios include the 6Y93 0935 Purley Foster Yeoman to Hoo Junction Up Yard and multi-part runs from Allington A.R.C. Sdg. to Whatley Quarry using Class 59 locomotives. Railfan Mode offers static observation points at Hoo Junction, Maidstone Barracks, Strood, and Tonbridge for watching trains pass without active control. Additional scenarios created by the community appear through the in-game workshop system and expand available content over time.
The Routes and Historical Context
The lines trace their origins to the South Eastern Railway established in 1836, originally linking London with Dover. Extensions followed the Medway Valley, supporting passenger, fruit, and hops traffic between Maidstone and Paddock Wood. The route passes through the Kent countryside, known for its scenic quality, and serves stations rendered with attention to real-world layouts. Modern operations reflect Southeastern community rail services, with the same stopping patterns preserved in the simulation. The Medway Valley Line section complements the busier Chatham Main Line by offering quieter passenger duties alongside freight opportunities across open countryside.
Is It Worth Playing?
Player feedback highlights the level of detail in trackwork, stations, and rolling stock, with particular praise for the visual quality of the route and the straightforward handling of the included trains. The add-on appeals to those interested in British rail operations, especially Southeastern services and mixed passenger-freight duties on historic infrastructure. With a range of ready-to-play scenarios and support for custom content, it provides substantial hours of focused simulation. Those who enjoy precise train control, realistic signaling, and exploring lesser-known English lines will find consistent value in the package. The current state of the add-on remains stable, with no major updates required beyond the base simulation platform.
