Description
The Denge Sound Mirrors (also known as the Acoustic Mirrors or Listening Ears) are three concrete structures which range in size from 20 to 200 feet. They were built between 1928 and 1935 as part of Britain's national defence strategy. The low-lying Romney Marsh was well suited for the placement of the mirrors which were designed as early warning systems to pick up the sounds of approaching enemy aircraft coming over the English Channel.
Please note that access to the Sound Mirrors is restricted except on organised events and annual summer open day at the Dungeness Nature Reserve RSPB.
Bus
Number 11 - Ashford to Lydd on Sea. Stagecoach bus number 102 - Folkestone to Rye via Lydd-on-Sea. The closest bus stops to the Sound Mirrors are located on Coast Drive and the Parade outside Taylor Road, Derville Road and Seaview Road.
Parking
The nearest car park (no toilets) is Greatstone Primary School, Baldwin Road, Greatstone, TN28 8SY. The nearest car park (with toilets) to the Sound Mirrors is situated on Coast Drive (postcode: TN29 9PE).
Accessibility
Due to the fragile nature of the shingle habitat, please stick to the pathways and public footpaths. Please note that some of the pathways are made up of loose shingle and may be unsuitable for access by disabled visitors, particularly wheelchairs. The bridge to the Sound Mirrors is very narrow and we regret that wheelchairs and mobility scooters will be unable to cross it.
Advisory Notes
Please note that the Sound Mirrors site at Lade is separate and approximately three miles from the main entrance to RSPB Dungeness reserve.
Picture Credit: © www.theromneymarsh.net.
