Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch Railway

During the Second World War, the narrow-gauge Romney Hythe and Dymchurch Railway was requisitioned by the War Department. A miniature armoured train, the only one in the world, was used to deliver troops along the coast and to patrol the coast in the case of an invasion. The railway also played a significant role in Operation Pluto in 1944/1945 – the construction of a pipeline to provide the Allied troops in France with fuel. New Romney station was appointed for the production of the 140 cm diameter pipes. The pipes were loaded on flat wagons and transported by rail to Dungeness for further assembling. At New Romney station a number of wagons can still be seen. At New Romney the officers were housed in Captain Howey's home, which also had been requisitioned by the War Department. The ordinary soldiers lived in huts or tents on the site of the present-day car park.   Tourist information: Years of Steam Railway Heritage set against the backdrop of some of Kent's most picturesque countryside is what makes a journey on the Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway a totally unique experience and is why this Heritage Railway is one of Kent's Top Tourist Attractions. You can stop at New Romney Station and visit our newly refurbished Model Railway Exhibition and, during the summer, our 1940's Exhibition which shows how important the railway was in the Second World War and the supplying of fuel to advancing troops in Europe after D-Day. During July and August, you can also book onto a 1940’s guided tour and learn more about the contribution of the railway to Operation Pluto. Upon arrival our highly-knowledgeable guide (dressed in 1940’s costume) will escort you to our very own mini 1940s cinema/exhibition for your private viewing. You will learn much of the role of the Railway in Second World War and all about the construction of Pluto (Pipe Line Under the Ocean). Our replica Armoured Train will also be on display.