Romney Marsh

Romney Marsh is known for its natural beauty, the diversity of its habitats, rich history, extensive coastline and its sheep.

The history of Romney Marsh is essentially the story of reclamation of land from the sea, the ongoing battle to drain it and to keep the sea from reclaiming it back. Throughout the centuries all this was happening, life on the Marsh was centred around sheep, smuggling and defending it from invasion.

The Romney Marsh website theromneymarsh.net covers the history of the Marsh from its creation some 2,500 years ago, its many historic buildings and includes many photos of its more recent years.

The history of Romney Marsh is essentially the story of reclamation of land from the sea, the ongoing battle to drain it and to keep the sea from reclaiming it back. Throughout the centuries all this was happening, life on the Marsh was centred around sheep, smuggling and defending it from invasion.

Introduction

Romney Marsh is the largest coastal wetland on the south coast of England. It is formed from several linked marshes: Romney Marsh proper forms the eastern portion, with the ‘younger’ Walland Marsh forming the majority of the western portion, and Denge Marsh to the south. Despite these internal divisions all three portions are collectively known as Romney Marsh.

The Marsh has had a long and complex natural history of formation and alteration which has given rise to very variable geological deposits across its area. Although fertile, the land relies on the constant upkeep of the drainage system and the massive earthen defence walls and natural shingle barriers to protect it from the sea.