Romney Marsh
Romney Marsh conjures up the fictional Doctor Syn, a vicar turned smuggler. In the book by the same name, Doctor Syn, (nickname "the Scarecrow"), roamed the countryside with his Marsh Men on moonless nights.
Biking and hiking around Romney Marsh - You may not see any smugglers as you explore Romney Marsh, but the wetlands are teeming with wildlife, such as water voles (Ratty in The Wind in the Willows is a water vole), Marsh frogs and dragonflies in summer, birds and geese in fall. Take the self-guided trails or bike paths through the marsh, past small ponds and farm lands. Get the "Magic of Romney Marsh" (for walks) and the "Romney Marsh Meanders" (for biking) at tourist information centers in Folkestone, Hythe, and New Romney.
Dymchurch - Dymchurch, home of the mythical Dr. Syn, has long sandy beaches, a great spot for kids to play all afternoon. For something different, take donkey rides along the beach, or relax in the amusement park, with rides and a playground.
Dungeness - Dungeness is the end of the line for the Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway. (Click here for the schedule.) Climb up the steps to the Old Lighthouse for a wonderful panorama of the sea and marshes.
Lathe Barn Children's Farm (Burmarsh) - Romney Marsh is dotted with farms - little ones will enjoy the farm animals (you can pet them) and duck pond at the Lathe Barn. Need some snacks? The tea room has "cream teas," and there's a playground too. May to Sept.
