Hythe is a haven for those who desire unspoilt coastal living.
A walk along the Hythe beachfront is restorative in its pure simplicity: expanses of shingle shoreline, weatherboarded boat sheds, historic Martello towers and the coast’s distinctive sound mirrors. Why not time your arrival at Fisherman’s Beach as the day’s catch is being brought to shore, watch the white sails billow in the breeze outside Hythe & Saltwood Sailing Club or stop at Hythe’s Imperial Hotel for luxurious spa treatments, a round of golf or afternoon tea?
Hythe’s wide promenade links to Sandgate and on to Folkestone – the latter home to the award-winning Rocksalt restaurant, which wows with its menu and panoramic harbour views. Alternatively, head in the opposite direction for the wild, windswept beauty of the Hythe Ranges and three miles of sandy shoreline at Dymchurch.
Inland highlights are just as alluring as by the sea. Hide and Fox restaurant in Hythe’s Saltwood enclave is where Kentish-born chef Allister Barsby has already won a Michelin star for his outstanding cuisine, while Unit 1 near the canal features innovative pop-up street food vendors and a bar stocked with locally-brewed beer made from Hythe hops.
Hythe High Street is one of the best in Kent – run by locals, for locals. The twice monthly farmers’ market is a wonderful place to stock up on local produce and specialty goods, while the street itself is lined with independent, creative and curious stores. Shop everything from homewares, flowers and fashion to beauty, books and fine chocolates. Extend your browsing time with a visit to The Malthouse – a mix of antique, collectable, art and craft stalls under one roof – before completing your weekly shop at Hythe’s Waitrose.
Although it is hard to tire of Hythe, there is much to see in the close vicinity. Take a nostalgic trip on the Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway, spot wildlife at Samphire Hoe nature reserve or wonder at the 100 square miles of Romney Marsh wetlands. Also close by are Port Lympne Safari Park and Brockhill Country Park.
Hythe is one of the five original Cinque Ports, together with Dover, Sandwich, Hastings and New Romney. Up until the 14th century, the town served as a centre of naval excellence at the command of royalty, complemented by the Royal Military Canal – a 28-mile Napoleonic-era defensive moat built to deter invasion. The legacy is to be enjoyed every day, with a host of heritage buildings to explore, a rich history to learn and waterside vistas to enjoy.