Dungeness - Lighthouse, Listening Ears And Narrow Gauge Railway

Dungeness - Lighthouse, Listening Ears And Narrow Gauge Railway

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Dungeness - Lighthouse, Listening Ears And Narrow Gauge Railway

Dungeness, bleak but enigmatic; this South Kent promontory is sandwiched between the English Channel and the Romney Marshes. The three landmarks that dominate the area are two lighthouses and the Dungeness power stations. Dungeness also boasts the base of a third lighthouse (The Roundhouse), a lifeboat station, the end the Romney Hythe & Dymchurch light railway line, as well as a RSPB nature reserve. 

The resident population of Dungeness live in a range of brick built houses and beach shacks or chalets. Despite their modest appearance values of the beach properties are on the rise with some selling for prices in excess of £70,000. I'm told that demand is so great that there is a waiting list.

Commercial fishing still takes place off the beach and you can purchase both fresh and smoked fish locally. The beach is well known amongst sea anglers and a bait and tackle shop enjoys their custom.

The bohemian nature of the community is reinforced by Derek Jarman's garden (something of a landmark in itself) and a small art gallery.

The Dungeness Nuclear Power Stations are visible from miles away and completely alien to the landscape. Surprisingly the Power Station Visitor Centre is worth taking a look at, although current terrorist concerns have curtailed its activities.

The Old Lighthouse was replace by the newer automated version in the 1960's and is now quite a distance from the sea. The Old Lighthouse is open to the public and a climb to the top will give you good elevated views.

The narrow gauge RH&D railway stops in Dungeness where there is a cafe serving refreshments and light meals.

Dungeness is also served by its own airport (well nearly). Lydd is just a few miles away, and visitors can enjoy the use of the airport bar and restaurant. If you look hard enough you'll also come across the 'Listening Ears', the giant concrete acoustic mirrors built between the World Wars to provide early warning of enemy aircraft.

For more information try: www.dungeness.org.uk, www.dungenesslighthouse.com and www.thepilot.uk.com

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