ROAMING THE ROMNEY MARSH

ROMNEY MARSH NATURE RESERVE

With a whole 11 hectares (that’s about 27 acres in old money) to explore, the Romney Marsh Nature Reserve is a treasure trove for ramblers, dog walkers, nature enthusiasts and kids.  A lovely place to visit at any time of the year!

Just off the A259, between St. Mary’s Bay and New Romney and next to the humpbacked bridge over the little railway line, turn in and find out the Marsh’s secrets.

Gentle walks and picnic areas lead on to a boardwalk over the seasonal ponds to the reconstructed Lookers Hut, and views across the wide expanse of Romney Marsh.

THE RESERVE

Romney Warren, in which the Reserve is set, is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest.  Wildlife conservation is an absolute priority – the dune grassland is home to special flora, mosses and lichens, and seasonal ponds are home to nationally important populations of Great Crested Newts and Great Silver Beetles.  Rare medicinal leeches and many species of dragonfly and damselflies can also be spotted here.

Sign-posted trails are easy to follow, and most of the paths are level and hard, making it easily accessible for wheelchair users and those pushing buggies.  In fact, disabled access is available to 90 per cent of the site.

THE MARSH COMMUNITY GARDEN

Gardening is good for the soul, they say – and there are many opportunities for volunteers to get their hands dirty in the Marsh Community Garden, which is maintained to provide wildlife habitats, and produce grown is sold to raise money for Kent Wildlife Trust.

Check out the opportunities by calling 01797 369487, or email romneymarsh.vc@kentwildlife.org.uk.