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Romney
Marsh Meanders 5 circular cycle rides with Ordnance Survey mapping,
detailed directions, and information on places of interest along the
route. Extract:
'The Romney
Marsh Meanders is a pack of five self-guided rides for both the wobbly
novice or experienced cyclist. The routes range from 10 to 42
miles. You can pedal the quiet lanes of the Marsh On The Trail of Doctor
Syn keeping an eye out for smugglers, or experience the delights of the
unique Marsh wildlife and learn about local Marsh legends. Enjoy the
beauty of the picturesque Marsh churches, follow the route and whimsical
comments of William Cobbett on his Rural Ride, or capture the allure of
the openness and solitude of the Walland Marsh.'
On the Trail of Doctor Syn
20
miles
'Cycle
in the countryside of the fictional Dr Syn (alias The Scarecrow), who
was a vicar by day, but a notorious smuggler by night. While pedalling
the 20 miles of Marsh lanes, savour the delights of the attractive
landscape, the views of the old coastline at Bodolph's Bridge pub or a
cream tea at Lathe Barn. The ruins of Eastbridge church were a favourite
meeting point for smugglers. How about a rendezvous at Burmarsh or St
Mary-in-the-Marsh for a refreshing stop? But who were the owlers and why
not experience a Day of Syn?'
A Sloe and Short Pedal on The Marsh
12
miles
'A
relaxing ride through the heart of the Romney Marsh, to experience its openness
and solitude. Listen to the 'laughing' Marsh Frogs at the Star Inn, St
Mary's in the Marsh, or discover the ancient breed of Romney Marsh
sheep. Hear about the ancient laws of the Sloe and Hawthorn hedgerows.
Have a rest at the Bell Inn, Ivychurch, under the shadows of the church
before passing the ruins of Hope All Saints. Cycle back to New Romney to
explore this busy Cinque Port town.'
Sea of Change
15
miles
'The
Romney Marsh is known as the "Gift of the Sea". Discover the
infinite horizons and large skies of the peaceful Walland Marsh as you
pedal the 15 miles of quiet lanes. Imagine the changing landscapes of
sea walls, shingle islands and ferocious storms sweeping the Marsh in
the Middle Ages. Sit down at the Royal Oak, Brookland, to admire the
unique church - or take a refreshing stop at The Woolpack. Cycle along
an old sea wall, past the ruins of Midley church returning to the
historic town of Lydd.'
Rural Rides
15
miles (or shorter alternative route)
'Revisit
the route William Cobbett followed on horseback in the nineteenth
century. Hear his moans about the marsh churches, the Royal Military
Canal and his views of the famous Romney Marsh sheep. Stock up your
supplies at Brenzett village or at Fleur-de-Lys, before continuing on
this delightful route. You have a choice to return to Brookland via
Fairfield church or cycle the longer 15 mile route to Appledore to enjoy
tea rooms and pubs. Imagine the chaos in Appledore when Viking ships
sailed up the village in their longboats as you cycle past the vast
sheep grazed fields in Fairfield back to Brookland.'
Fifteen Marsh Churches
40
miles
'Discover
the history of 15 Romney Marsh churches as you cycle from either
Hamstreet or Appledore railway station on a 40 mile pedal. Marvel at the
lovely Fairfield church in a field, the unique belfry at Brookland, or
the magnificent towers of Lydd and New Romney. Enjoy a pleasant stroll
in either towns, before passing the stout towers of Ivychurch, Snargate
and the leaning tower of Newchurch. Take refreshing a break at
St-Mary-in-the-Marsh opposite the picturesque church. Discover the
ruined churches, all that remain of long lost villages within the ever
changing Marsh landscape.'
Information
courtesy of several organisations including Romney Marsh Countryside
Project
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