Northern Chief and Black Prince

… at New Romney. Black Prince, on the right, was in charge of the 3.30pm departure from Dungeness. At New Romney, Black Prince was replaced by Northern Chief which had come off an earlier train from Hythe.

We were at New Romney on the RHDR for our customary afternoon cup of tea while working our circuitous route around the Marsh from West Hythe. A good 30+ miles along the lanes of Romney Marsh, a route we’ve done May times.

The unexpected closure of the Bucket and Spade cafe threw a spanner in the works. We had to find a new place. The Coffee Lounge fitted the bill (almost). They were out of scones by 12.15pm! Then the was a queue for takeaway baguettes at the local bakery which only took cash and a further queue at the post office to withdraw said cash.

It was a beautiful ride, fairly gentle headwinds as we worked our way north. Turning south meant the wind was by and large at our backs but you know how fickle winds can be.

The last leg back to West Hythe as always a fact. Especially today as we bowled along with the winds pushing us along the 7 mile seawall.

We were planning to have a swim at Dymchurch. The tide was right up and the water choppy. I braved it. The sea was relatively warm and the chop added a bit of fun.

The final stop, as usual, was at the Hopfuzz brewery back in West Hythe. The beer was very good as usual and some bar nibbles were very acceptable anyway.

Hope you like those two very fine locomotives. Many of you liked Bahamas yesterday. Thank you for the hearts and stars.