GREATSTONE, NEW ROMNEY – A significant residential fire in Greatstone has forced a temporary halt to the Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch Railway this morning, 22 April 2026.
Kent Fire and Rescue Service was alerted to the emergency on Seaview Road at 09:51, quickly dispatching a robust response to the scene located just a stone’s throw from the historic light railway tracks.
The firefighting operation is deploying five fire engines and a specialized height vehicle to combat the flames. Crews equipped with breathing apparatus are utilizing high-pressure hose reel jets and main jets to bring the fire under control. Because the property sits in such close proximity to the “World’s Smallest Public Railway,” officials took the immediate precaution of pausing all train movements to ensure the safety of passengers, staff, and emergency teams working near the line.
Travellers planning to use the RH&DR today should anticipate delays and are encouraged to consult the railway operator for the latest service updates as the incident remains ongoing. While the primary focus is on extinguishing the Seaview Road property, the impact on the local rail heritage remains the most significant disruption to the wider New Romney community today.