Woolgathering on Romney Marsh

Aterm from the 16th century, ‘woolgathering’ referred to the trade of collecting loose tufts of wool caught on thorns and fences for spinning into yarn, but has now come to mean daydreaming. However, wool from flocks of sheep raised on Romney Marsh was acknowledged to be the finest in Europe and much coveted by Flemish and French weavers, who were prepared to pay a high price for fleeces. Their English competitors, however, wanted exports restricted to keep costs down. As a result of their protestations, high taxes were imposed on the export of wool and as night follows day, the producers of wool turned to smuggling.

The Ship Inn first enters the historical record of Dymchurch in 1530 at a time when smuggling was rife along the South-East coast of Kent and likely that it was named because of its longrunning connection to its clientele of fishermen and notorious smugglers, who were known as ‘owlers’, perhaps due their use of hoots as a warning signal.

Since being acquired by new owners in 2017, the building has been totally restored to a high standard and now provides facilities expected in the 21st century. The original accommodation area has been totally refurbished to provide five en-suite rooms and the bar areas rebuilt to offer two main dining areas, one of which can be used for functions, and a bar area where dogs are welcome. A good selection of local cask ales are on tap and the food, often seasonal, is mainly from local sources.

The Ship Inn is lowbeamed pub with an attractive staircase, open fires and one room in the hotel has an iron ceiling from when the Wealden ironworks that were still working in the eighteenth century. It lies across the road from the church of St Peter and Paul and is just two minutes’ walk from the sea. It is also the headquarters of author Russell Thorndike’s fictional Dr Syn, whose festival takes place every August.

The smuggling history of the Ship Inn through the centuries is literally engrained into the fabric of the building – hidden passageways and voids were discovered during renovation in recent years, so drop in to enjoy its hospitality and don’t forget to wear your tricorn hat! More information from www.shipinndymchurch.co.uk

The Red Lion

63 High Street, Swanage, BH19 2LY Dorset Hospitality in a Family-Run C17th Traditional Inn

Great Selection of 6 Cask Ales & over 50 Ciders

Varied Menu with Light Bites and Specials Boards Friday Night Steak & Wednesday Night Curry Deals Traditional Sunday Roasts Large Beer Garden with Children’s Play Area Occasional Live Music

Heated Smoking Area 3 Star Accommodation ~ All Ensuite Rooms,

One with Disabled Facilities

Car Park with Reserved Parking for Residents