For a proper day out on the coast, head to Hythe and hop aboard the Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway — the world’s smallest public railway, running one-third-size steam and diesel locomotives along thirteen and a half miles of the Kent coast. It’s been carrying passengers between Hythe, Dymchurch, New Romney and Dungeness since the 1920s, and it’s every bit as charming as that sounds, especially if you’ve got children or grandchildren in tow.
Beyond the railway, Hythe itself makes for a lovely stop: a sandy and shingle beach, a peaceful stretch of the Royal Military Canal for a walk, and a proper old-fashioned high street for lunch afterwards. Combine a ride on the railway with a walk along the canal and you’ve got a full, easy day away from the barn without ever feeling rushed.
Check the timetable before you go, as services vary through the year and run more frequently in summer. A clear day is best for the views out to sea from the train, but the railway runs whatever the weather, which makes it a solid backup plan if the forecast turns. Dogs are welcome on board too, so no need to leave anyone behind.
