Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway
Ride historic steam trains on a 13.5-mile miniature mainline through Kent's coast and countryside.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
More services run
Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway
Best Time
More services run
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ride historic steam trains on a 13.5-mile miniature mainline through Kent's coast and countryside.
"A great day out for the family with a super line and a variety of engines."
🎯 Book Rover Tickets Online
Consider a rover ticket for flexibility to hop on/off, but book online as they may not be available at all stations.
📱 Download the Audio App
Enhance your journey with the official audio guide app for insights along the route.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Steam Locomotive Rides
Various stations along the line
Experience the charm of historic steam and diesel locomotives on a 13.5-mile miniature mainline railway.
Dungeness Terminus
Dungeness
Arrive at the unique Dungeness, once called the 'only desert in the UK,' now a haven for wildlife and artists.
Model Railway & Museum
New Romney Station
Explore an interesting model railway with interactive buttons and lights, plus a museum detailing the railway's history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Understand the Timetable
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Rover Tickets Online
Consider a rover ticket for flexibility to hop on/off, but book online as they may not be available at all stations.
📱 Download the Audio App
Enhance your journey with the official audio guide app for insights along the route.
🧥 Dress for the Weather
Even covered carriages can be cool, so dress in layers, especially on warmer days.
📸 Capture the Scenery
The line offers great views, especially once you're outside Hythe. Perfect for trainspotting and photography.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Rover Tickets Online
Consider a rover ticket for flexibility to hop on/off, but book online as they may not be available at all stations.
📱 Download the Audio App
Enhance your journey with the official audio guide app for insights along the route.
🧥 Dress for the Weather
Even covered carriages can be cool, so dress in layers, especially on warmer days.
📸 Capture the Scenery
The line offers great views, especially once you're outside Hythe. Perfect for trainspotting and photography.
☕ Dungeness Cafe
The cafe at Dungeness has basic options and can run out of popular items early.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway for its charming steam trains and the unique experience it offers. The friendly staff and volunteers are frequently highlighted, as is the engaging model railway at New Romney. However, some find the website and timetable confusing, and ticket pricing can be a point of contention for shorter journeys. The cafe at Dungeness also receives mixed reviews.
"Steam locomotives in excellant order and two available on limited timetable.
Website confusing and timetable very difficult to read on a phone.
Website only gives option of 29 pound rover ticket which gives free entry to model railway and warns cannot buy on stations.
As we only wanted a short ride we opted to go from Romney marsh..which is best station to start from as has meuseum/ model railway.
However whatever station we wished to go to was 22.00 pounds.,and no free entry to model railway.
Timetable made it difficult to use rover ticket as left you at dungeness for 2.5hrs or hythe for 2 dependant if train was not doing 20 min turn a round.
Would rec visit more in season for more flexibility.
Cafe at dungeness poor...basic food options and had run out of fish and chips and pasties by 12.30.
Nice line though and history very interesting.
Best to go on warmish day as even covered carriages with doors cool."
Mark Buet
"Very good . We Took train to dungeness. And back again.
We will go again but earlier in the day so we could have a walk around dungeness. Then catch the train back again. Very interesting model railway experience.
Buttons to push to make trains work. And lights to turn on+ cable car ."
Kevin Sayer
"I’ve been coming here since I was 3 and have been Trainspotting and making online content ever since. I would 100% recommend this railway to absolutely anyone. Doesn’t matter if it’s your first time or if you’ve been there 100 times the experience is always amazing, the staff members and volunteers are always extremely kind and helpful."
Owen Burchell
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The railway has multiple stations, with Hythe and New Romney being key starting points. You can reach Hythe by car or public transport. Parking is available at various stations, though it can be busy during peak times.
Yes, parking is available at most stations, including Hythe, New Romney, and Dungeness. It's advisable to arrive early during busy periods to secure a spot.
Yes, you can reach Hythe and other nearby towns by bus services. Check local transport schedules for the most up-to-date information.
The full journey from Hythe to Dungeness on the Romney Hythe & Dymchurch Railway is approximately 13.5 miles and takes around 45 minutes one way.
The railway aims to be accessible, but it's best to contact them directly to confirm specific accessibility arrangements for carriages and stations.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary depending on the type of ticket (single, return, rover) and age. A 'rover ticket' allows you to hop on and off, but it's recommended to check the official website for current pricing and booking options.
While some tickets may be available at stations, it's strongly advised to book online in advance, especially for popular services or during peak seasons, as availability can be limited.
A rover ticket offers unlimited travel on the day of issue, allowing you to alight and re-board trains at different stations. Be mindful of the train timetable to ensure you don't get stranded.
Information on discounts, such as family tickets or group rates, is usually available on the official website. It's always worth checking for any special offers.
Operating hours and the frequency of services vary throughout the year. Always consult the official timetable on their website before your visit.
🎫 🚂 Onsite Experience
Many visitors recommend starting from New Romney station as it houses the museum and model railway, offering a good introduction to the line.
Dungeness is a unique landscape with a lighthouse, power station, and a community of artists. It's a great spot for a walk and to experience a different kind of environment.
The railway hosts various special events throughout the year, including themed days and the popular Santa Special during the Christmas period. Check their website for event schedules.
Yes, photography and videography are generally welcomed, especially for enthusiasts. Many creators share their experiences on platforms like TikTok and Instagram.
The Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway was once famously marketed as the 'world's smallest public railway' due to its 15-inch gauge. 
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Cafes are available at some stations, notably at New Romney and Dungeness. However, options can be basic, and popular items may sell out.
Picnics are generally permitted, which can be a good option for budget-conscious travelers or if you have specific dietary needs.
Depending on the station, you might find local pubs or cafes in nearby towns like Hythe or Dymchurch.
📸 📸 Photography
Many photographers enjoy capturing the trains at iconic locations like Kerton Road Bridge, Church Lane Footpath, and near The Pilot Inn. The coastal stretches also offer scenic backdrops. +2
Yes, the railway operates a variety of steam and diesel locomotives, including famous ones like 'Winston Churchill' and 'Doctor Syn.' Check the timetable for which engines are in service.
You can capture classic steam train shots, scenic landscapes with the train, and unique perspectives of the miniature railway in action.
Unusual locomotive turnarounds can happen, offering unique photographic opportunities.
Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚂 Railway Enthusiasts
+1 The railway's history, from its ambitious construction to its role as a heritage attraction, is a key point of interest. Photography opportunities are abundant, with many iconic spots along the 13.5-mile route. 🚶♀️ Day-Trippers from London
It offers a charming escape from the city bustle, providing a unique experience with its miniature steam trains. Plan your journey to make the most of the timetable, perhaps focusing on a round trip from Hythe to Dungeness or vice versa, with a stop at New Romney to explore the museum. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
History of the Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway
The railway was designed to be a serious, full-scale operation, albeit on a smaller gauge, connecting the coastal towns of Hythe and Dungeness. This ambitious project aimed to provide a unique transport link and tourist attraction. Over the decades, the RHDR has seen various ownerships and operational changes, but its core appeal as a heritage steam railway has remained. It has hosted notable figures, including Winston Churchill, who was a patron and had a locomotive named in his honor.
The railway's enduring legacy is a testament to the passion of its staff and volunteers who maintain its historic charm and operational excellence. Today, the RHDR continues to operate a 13.5-mile route, offering a nostalgic journey through the Kent countryside and coastline. It's not just about the trains; the railway is intertwined with the local landscape and history, offering a glimpse into a bygone era of rail travel. The railway's unique status as a miniature mainline has cemented its place as a beloved attraction for families and railway enthusiasts alike.
+1Experiencing the RHDR with Families
Many families find the rover ticket to be a great option, allowing them to break up the journey and explore different stations. New Romney, with its museum and model railway, is a must-visit for a comprehensive family experience.
When planning your family visit, remember to dress in layers as carriages can be cool, even when covered.
Photography Opportunities on the RHDR
The railway boasts a fleet of unique locomotives, including the famous 'Winston Churchill,' 'Doctor Syn,' and 'Green Goddess.'
+1 Photographing these distinct engines against the Kent landscape provides endless creative possibilities. Enthusiasts often share their work on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, showcasing the best angles and moments. The opportunity to capture unusual locomotive turnarounds adds another layer of interest for photographers. To get the best shots, consider visiting during the 'golden hours' of early morning or late afternoon for optimal lighting.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit