The Dockyard Railway is operated on behalf of The Historic Dockyard, Chatham, by members of the North Kent Industrial Locomotive Society.

The society was formed in 1997 by a group of members of the Dockyard Steam Society.

The aim of the N.K.I.L.S. is to restore locomotives and rolling stock to run on the Dockyard Railway System. The majority of the wagon fleet are of wooden construction and of pre-grouping orgin.

If you are interested in joining the society as a volunteer to help preserve the items of rolling stock, please write to;
N.K.I.L.S.
51 Wood Street,
Brompton,
Gillingham,
Kent.
ME7 5DS

Enclosing a stamped addressed envelope, please also give details of any relevant or special skills you may have.

All those who join us as volunteers, will have the opportunity, if they wish, to join the Operating Department of the Dockyard Railway.
Training will be given, to carry out the following duties;

1. Steam Locomotive Fireman, with the opportunity to progress to Steam Locomotive Driver.
2. Diesel Locomotive Driver.
3. Steam Crane Operator.
4. Shunter.

All the above activities require persons to undertake a rules examination, as well as examinations and assessments in the duties concerned.