The Romney

  • A Romney Sheep standing in a green field with rolling hills in the background

The Romney originates from the Romney Marsh region of Kent, where it was developed to withstand wet and often harsh conditions. It is easily recognised by its wide white face, woolly legs, and strong, medium-to-large build. Celebrated as a dual-purpose breed, the Romney produces lustrous fleece that is highly valued in weaving and rug making. Its wool is particularly resistant to felting, making it ideal for durable textiles. Today, the Romney is exported across the globe and forms the foundation of many long wool breeds in New Zealand and beyond.

Region

England (Kent, Romney Marsh)

Wool Characteristics

  • Texture

    Medium to long wool, with a firm, lustrous handle.

  • Colour

    White, free from kemp and dark fibres.

  • Quality

    Strong, lustrous, and durable, making it less soft than fine wool breeds but excellent for hardwearing textiles.

  • Uses

    Carpets, outerwear, upholstery, weaving, rugs, and hand-spinning.

Distinctive Qualities

* Developed for hardiness in wet lowland pastures.
* Produces long, lustrous wool resistant to felting.
* Highly prized wool.
* Important foundation breed for flocks worldwide, especially in New Zealand.

Summary

The Romney combines strength, resilience, and versatility. Its fleece, known for durability and lustre, remains a cornerstone of carpet and weaving industries. As one of Britain’s most successful exports, the Romney endures as both a practical farm breed and a vital contributor to global sheep husbandry.

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