A land apart
Dubbed ’the fifth quarter of the world’ in recognition of its uniqueness, Romney Marsh is truly a land apart. Sheep graze green fields separated by a maze of ditches, the horizon punctuated by church towers. Famed for its emptiness, its sweeping skies and sense of solitude it is truly a unique and special place.
Historically the Marsh was a thriving and prosperous place centred on the Cinque Port of New Romney, until the great storm of 1287 landlocked the town. It was the Romney Marsh sheep that provided the area’s continued prosperity, and also the origins of a notorious and rife smuggling industry.
Farming, churches and wildlife
Today the Marsh is a peaceful place mostly devoted to farming, its quiet and flat lanes offering excellent walking and cycling, its churches provide a step back into history, its landscape supporting a variety of special wildlife. However let’s not forget the distinctive coastline from the shingle of Dungeness to the sandy beaches at Dymchurch, nor the vibrant communities offering specialist shops and excellent local food and drink (maybe even a ’Lookers Pie’?).
With all this to offer, it is truly worth taking time to explore and enjoy such a hidden and peaceful corner of the world.
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