The marshland of North Kent is very similar to the Anglian shores across the estuary, but lacking the sheltered harbours and small marinas that nestle in the creeks of Essex and beyond.
An exception to this rule is Swale Marina, still known to some as “Jarman’s Boatyard”, tucked at the head of Conyer Creek, running into the eastern end of the Swale behind the Isle of Sheppey.
Swale Marina is situated in the picturesque village of Conyer, a typical North Kent marshland village with white timber clad houses. The Ship Inn Public House in the village offers both bar snacks and restaurant meals. About a mile and a half from Conyer lies the larger village of Teynham which has a mainline railway station serving the London – Dover line. Crispins Fish and Chip Restaurant, the Dover Castle Public House and Restaurant, Chinese and Indian Take Aways and grocery supplies can also be found in Teynham.
Swale Marina has outstanding rural views across the marshlands and fields, the Saxon Shore-way offers riverside walks in the area which is renowned for its abundance of bird life, with the bird sanctuaries of Elmley and Fowley Island on its door-step. Conyer has long been associated with boating and barges, which used to be built here. It was a major outlet for locally made bricks that were carried up the Thames by Thames barges to build much of London in the 19th and early 20th Century.
Swale Marina offers far more than just a mooring for your boat; it is a place to enjoy, a place to stay and it is a boating centre, which caters for all the family.
Swale Marina is well placed for exploring the sheltered waters and creeks of the River Swale and Medway. It offers good access to the River Thames, Thames Estuary and the English Channel alike.
The warm and friendly Conyer Cruising Club is on site and is very active with social events, club cruises and the Spring Tide series racing. New members are always welcome.
