Sound Mirrors

Out on the Romney Marsh near New Romney stand three massive concrete dishes that look like they've been abandoned by aliens. These are the Sound Mirrors - early warning systems built in the 1920s and 30s to detect approaching aircraft by sound alone, before radar existed. They're genuinely odd things to stumble across: curved concrete structures that curve back on themselves, designed to funnel distant engine noise towards listening posts.

You can wander right up to them for free. There's not much to do beyond walking around, taking photos, and trying to work out how on earth they're supposed to function. The engineering is fascinating if you're into that sort of thing - history buffs and Cold War enthusiasts will find them properly interesting. Kids might enjoy the novelty for twenty minutes, though once they've climbed on them and taken a selfie, that's usually it.

The marsh setting is bleak and atmospheric, especially on grey days. Come when it's quiet - the Sands Holiday Park is barely half a mile away, so summer weekends can get busy with families from the caravan parks. Romney Meadows and Marlie Park are both close enough that you could easily combine a visit here with a park-based holiday without much extra effort.

There's no café, no visitor centre, nothing really - just the mirrors themselves and the wide flat landscape. It's worth an hour if you're curious about forgotten wartime infrastructure. If you're after conventional attractions, keep driving.