The perfect winter escape – cosy comfort, wide skies and beach strolls on the Romney Marsh
Why Romney Marsh is perfect for a slow weekend escape
If you’re craving wide skies, slow mornings and the kind of restorative quiet that feeds the soul, Romney Marsh is the perfect place to escape for a weekend.
Stretching between the Kent coast and the Sussex border, this unique landscape of wetlands, shingle beaches and historic towns offers a gentler pace of life – even if just for a weekend!
Read for inspiration and information to create your perfect weekend on the Romney Marsh…
Friday Evening: Where to stay on Romney Marsh
CABU by the Sea offers a range of luxury cabins for unforgettable coastal retreats and is perfectly placed to explore everything the area has to offer. For complete seclusion, the Marsh is also dotted with shepherd’s huts – head to Romney Marsh Shepherd’s Huts, ideal for switching off entirely.
For something a little bit special check out Port Lympne’s high end hotels, lodges and glamping pods, complete with zoo entry, safari options and once-in-a-lifetime animal experiences!
Coming Summer 2026: The Gallivant Littlestone Beach
Keep an eye out for The Gallivant Littlestone Beach, opening summer 2026! This chic boutique hotel will bring a touch of seaside glamour with 13 stylish bedrooms, a Nordic spa, a library, orangery, and stunning views. Think private beach house vibes with a luxurious twist — perfect for a coastal getaway you’ll want to Instagram immediately!
Friday Night: Best places to eat on the Romney Marsh
For dinner, keep things local and seasonal. The Woolpack Inn in Warehorne excels at unfussy, delicious dishes made with regional produce. Expect crackling fires in winter, cosy candlelit tables, and menus that favour comfort and flavour.
A former smugglers’ haunt, the pub oozes charm and character, with hops adorning old beams and a large inglenook fireplace.
The perfect spot to refuel after a day exploring the area.
Saturday Morning: Ride the Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway
Start Saturday with one of the area’s most iconic experiences: a ride on the Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway. This historic steam railway trundles across the Marsh from Hythe to Dungeness, offering a wonderfully nostalgic way to take in the landscape. Sit by the window, watch the fields roll past, and let the pace set the tone for the day.
Choose to stop off at Hythe for coffee shops and gift shops, Dymchurch for seaside fun, Romney Marsh for the fascinating railway museum or head all the way along the coast to Dungeness.
Dungeness is one of Britain’s most striking and unusual landscapes. Visit the Dungeness Lighthouse for panoramic views, then wander past artist cottages, abandoned boats and stark power stations. It’s a place that feels otherworldly, but completely compelling!
Saturday Lunch: Where to eat in Dungeness
If you’re still exploring the area by lunchtime, make your way to The Pilot Inn at Dungeness – a much-loved institution, serving fresh seafood in an unmistakably characterful setting surrounded by fishermen’s huts, shingle beaches and endless sky.
A visit to Dungeness wouldn’t be complete without a stop at the Snack Shack, a seasonal, family-run beachfront eatery serving fresh seafood caught locally and cooked simply and deliciously right on the shingle.
Expect flavoursome options like crab and lobster rolls, fish flatbreads, and other catch-of-the-day specials — all prepared with a focus on sustainability and traceability. The casual, outdoor setting makes it a perfect lunch stop after exploring the shoreline or nearby lighthouse, with picnic benches offering sea views as you eat.
It’s weather-dependent and typically open mid-week to Sundays during the season, so it’s a good idea to check ahead before you visit.
Sunday Strolling: Where to find walks, crafting and coffee on the Romney Marsh
The Romney Marsh Nature Reserve is a wonderful spot for walking, offering peaceful trails and plenty of wildlife. It’s ideal for a relaxed stroll or a longer countryside walk, especially for visitors who enjoy being outdoors.
Located nearby at the Kent Wildlife Trust Visitor Centre, The Nest is a welcoming café and creative space. Alongside good coffee and light bites, it hosts craft workshops and community events, making it a lovely place to stop, relax, or try something hands-on.
Sunday: Before you leave…
Although just outside the district, Romney Marsh Wool is well worth including in your weekend plans. Specialising in 100% British wool products made from locally sourced Romney fleece, visitors can explore the showroom to see a wide range of items, from yarns and blankets to homewares, and gain an insight into the heritage and craftsmanship behind this traditional rural industry.
It’s a fascinating stop for anyone interested in crafting, textiles, sustainable materials, or local produce.
Why Visit Romney Marsh, Kent?
Romney Marsh doesn’t shout for attention — and that’s exactly its appeal. It’s a destination defined by space, quiet and understated charm. Perfect for couples, solo travellers or anyone in need of a reset, it rewards those willing to slow down, look outwards and savour the moment.
Sometimes, the most memorable weekends are the simplest ones.
On Romney Marsh, that simplicity is the luxury.