The coveted Golden Arrow steamed its way through Kent today giving enthusiasts a rare glimpse into the past.

The historic locomotive arrived at the Eynsford Viaduct in Dartford this morning while making its way from Birmingham to Canterbury.

Drone photographer Stephen Sangster caught dramatic footage of the legendary boat train, before it stopped in Canterbury.

Mr Sangster, of Orpington, said: “It’s rare that you get to see this magnificent train, which only passes through Kent two or three times a year.

“I arrived in Lullingstone this morning to film it, while it was sleeting, and there was only one other photographer there.

“It is a great spot, that viaduct, for observing the impressive train. And it would operate in Kent many, many years ago.

“There were people on social media saying they would see it in the 1950s.”

Classic steam operator Saphos Trains hauled the locomotive past oast houses and hop fields, passing Ashford, later arriving at Canterbury.

Originally, the steam consisted of 10 British Pullman cars hauled by one of Southern Railway’s Lord Nelson class locomotives.

The journey between London and Dover typically took around an hour and forty minutes.

Now, the historic locomotive takes guests on a number of tours throughout the year, with Kent being one destination.

A Sopos spokesman explained: “Travelling through the beautiful Kent countryside, the engine works hard to haul the train over the stiff gradients along the coastal line through Dover and Folkestone, with dramatic white cliffs and spectacular views across the English Channel.

“Continuing along the high-speed route through Tonbridge recreating the former Golden Arrow from the glory days of rail travel.”

Yet the service came in for criticism in October 2019 after breaking down and causing serious disruptions near Bearsted, Maidstone.

Speaking today, Mr Sangster, a licensed drone photographer, was preparing to catch a final glimpse of the Golden Arrow on its return.

“It’s going to be dark so I won’t fly the drone, but it gives me the opportunity to properly see the train, without having to worry about filming it,” he said.