ROMNEY HELICOPTER RIDES

Embarking on a helicopter ride over Romney Marsh in Kent is an invitation to experience one of England’s most distinctive landscapes from an unparalleled perspective. This vast, flat expanse of land, crisscrossed by a network of ditches and channels known as dykes, stretches out to the horizon, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, history, and tranquillity. From the moment the helicopter lifts off and begins its graceful ascent, passengers are treated to a visual feast that captures the essence of this unique part of Kent.

Romney Marsh, often referred to as “the fifth continent” due to its distinctive environment and the sense of isolation it can evoke, is a place of stark beauty and intriguing history. The marshland covers approximately 100 square miles, with its landscape shaped by centuries of human intervention to reclaim land from the sea and manage the water levels. From above, the geometric precision of the waterways contrasts with the natural curves of the coastline, creating a patchwork that is both mesmerizing and revealing of the human struggle against nature.

As the helicopter glides over the marsh, one of the first landmarks that come into view is the historic St. Thomas à Becket Church in Fairfield. This isolated church, surrounded by water and accessible only by a causeway, looks almost surreal against the vast, open landscape. From the air, it serves as a poignant reminder of the marsh’s medieval past, when the area was under the sea, and the church was a beacon for travellers navigating the treacherous waters.

Should the journey continue towards the coast, the shingle beach of Dungeness becomes visible. This stark, otherworldly landscape is one of Britain’s largest expanses of shingle and home to a unique ecosystem. The contrast between the natural environment and the man-made structures, including the Dungeness nuclear power stations and the iconic Dungeness Lighthouse, is striking. From the helicopter, the view of this landscape is unparalleled, offering insights into the balance between human activity and nature conservation.

Flying further along the coast, passengers can catch sight of the Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch Railway. This one-third full-size steam and diesel railway winds its way through the marsh, providing a charming and nostalgic scene. From above, the miniature trains and their tracks offer a glimpse into a bygone era, adding a touch of whimsy to the landscape below.