The insideGUIDE To Hythe
A serene haven of wellness, coastal heritage and outdoor living, Hythe makes for the perfect restorative retreat, beckoning visitors to marvel at its many hidden gems.
WORDS BY MIA CHAPMAN
One of Kent’s original Cinque Ports and having played a pivotal role in the county’s trade industry developments, the quaint coastal location of Hythe has long been loved for its intriguing past. With a world-famous heritage railway, a Napoleonic-era canal, an enthralling artifact collection, a transporting castle and so much more, it comes at no surprise that this illustrious jewel is highly regarded when it comes to protecting and parading Kent’s remarkable roots.
Today, Hythe is also celebrated for its refreshed and evolving identity, but even more so for its passionate community that holds a collective adoration for positive wellbeing and collaboration; a destination where basking in fresh sea air, embarking on an active adventure and savouring the finest seasonal and locally sourced eats has never been easier or more enjoyable. When looking for a getaway that is certain to have you feeling restored, inspired and blissfully content, Hythe should be at the very top of your list.
“With Kent’s coastline stretching as far as the eye can see on one side and the countryside with rolling hills on the other, Hythe is truly a ‘haven’ as its name’s meaning suggests. Home to Europe’s tallest chandelier and the largest, best-preserved ossuary in Britain, there is something here for everyone, whether it be a quick pitstop before catching the Eurotunnel or a family beach holiday!”
Adama Mhone-Steeple, Marketing Manager, Hythe Imperial
Top Hythe Picks
Top Wellness
VWell Studio
A bright and tranquil wellbeing studio equipped with state-of-the-art facilities. Championing both physical and mental wellness, the studio hosts various classes including yoga, Pilates, Barre™ and meditation.
Top Adventure
Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve
Home to over 900 animals across 75 species and with unforgettable safari experiences, fascinating exhibitions and more, Port Lympne is a fantastic day out for the whole family.
Top Bar
Sunshine Meze, BBQ, Wine & Cocktail Bar
A more recent addition to the town’s high street, enjoy fresh dishes cooked in the bar’s open grill kitchen that sing with authentic flavours alongside plenty of tipples to suit all tastes.
Sumptuous Stays
Hythe Imperial Hotel & Spa
A stylish seafront hotel boasting a stay of luxury and comfort. Perfectly positioned for exploring the town’s most-loved spots, Hythe Imperial offers guests a host of elevated facilities including an award-winning on-site restaurant, a spa and an 18-hole golf course.
Prospect Cottage via Airbnb
Attractively located close to the town centre and main attractions, this dog-friendly holiday home makes for the perfect cosy seaside escape, sleeping up to six guests with two bedrooms and ample living space.
The Lodges at Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve
Spend the night in luxury with company from some of the park’s famous inhabitants from bears and tigers to lions and rhinos. With the use of a private golf buggy and exclusive access to explore the surrounding park, a stay here promises to be unforgettable.
TOP PUBS IN TOWN
The White Hart
Passionate about great food and drink and bringing people together, the team behind this welcoming pub and restaurant have created the ultimate family-friendly menus featuring tasty wood-fired pizzas, mouthwatering burgers and fan-favourite Sunday roasts.
Unit 1
Nestled alongside the canal in West Hythe, this unique microbar is fully-stocked with a wide range of locally produced cider, craft beer and ale with light bites on offer daily, too.
Kings Head
Steeped in over 400 years of history and recognised as the oldest pub in Hythe, the Kings Head offers locals the perfect spot to delight in a superb Kentish cask ale. With a varied wine list and a popular menu of traditional foodie favourites.
COFFEE BREAK
Mit Milch Coffee
Deeply passionate about their craft, community and ethical sourcing, the team behind speciality coffee house Mit Milch are devoted to providing Hythe with great tasting, considered cups and delicious local snacks.
Cafe on the Beach
For post-stroll pick-me-ups, this quirky seafront café has got you covered. Savour warming cups of speciality tea and coffee, delight in freshly-baked sweet treats or start your day with a hearty breakfast bite.
Florence’s Artisan Bakery
Glorious bakery and coffee spot beloved for its fresh sourdough, focaccia sandwiches and irresistible treats. Situated on the high street, Florence’s invites the community to indulge in the very finest fresh homemade goods and brews.
Divine Dining
Hide and Fox
Michelin star and AA Rosette award-winning restaurant that has firmly made its mark within Kent’s growing dining scene. Led by the deeply passionate and talented Allister and Alice, Hide and Fox are known for their commitment to exceptional flavours, perfectly pairing wines and outstanding customer service for an exquisite dining experience.
The Waterfront
Situated on the seafront and with an impressive menu that showcases traditional British cuisine, fine wines and high-quality fresh seafood, The Waterfront prides itself on being the perfect location for any occasion. Enjoy a great selection of tipples, an elevated takeaway menu and fantastic al-fresco dining options.
The Truffle Pig
A modern deli-restaurant boasting a relaxing environment and creative menus that highlight a fantastic array of fresh, local and seasonal ingredients. With friendly service and excellent wine pairings, the team at The Truffle Pig serve fab food all day, including Sunday roasts and innovative five-course tasting menus.
CULTURAL HOTSPOTS
St Leonard’s Church
Opening again to visitors in late spring 2025, St Leonard’s Church is famous for being the home to the largest and best-preserved collection of ancient human skulls and bones in Britain. Located within the crypt (otherwise known as The Ossuary), the collection’s earliest references date back to 1678, and while fascinating theories abound, historians are still uncertain about their true origins.
Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway
Established in 1927 and known as ‘Kent’s Mainline in Miniature’, the Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway has been a heralded part of the county’s landscape since its opening. The railway’s one-third full-size steam and diesel locomotives travel daily from Hythe, terminating at the National Nature Reserve of Dungeness. With so much Kentish heritage to explore at every station, the RH&DR is an exceptional way to explore.
Saltwood Castle
Complete with a moat, battlements and a secret garden, this enchanting landmark is best known for being the site where the assassination of Thomas Becket was plotted. Later the home of art historian Lord Clark of Saltwood and then his son, military historian and diarist, the late Rt. Hon. Alan Clark MP, the castle’s rich history is a true testament to the town’s development throughout the ages and is occasionally open to the public for special events and viewings.
MUST-SHOP ARTISAN STORES
The Sewing Space
Browse a wide range of fabrics, haberdashery and crafting accessories for all manner of quilting, dressmaking and arty endeavours. Alongside a beautiful collection of excellent materials, the shop also regularly holds creative workshops suitable for all abilities.
Obidosh
From unique homewares and quirky accessories to handmade keepsakes and top beauty picks, when looking for the perfect gift, Hythe gem Obidosh is certain to have just the thing.
Shepherd Hut Studios
Perched upon Hythe’s charming high street, the Shepherd Hut Studios is a vibrant gallery run by husband and wife team, Andrea and Howard, who together create captivating original artworks and homewares that are inspired by the Kent coast and beyond.
OUTDOORSY SPOTS
Hythe Seafront
Delightful pebbled beach that remains ever-popular for both crisp seaside strolls in the winter and family adventures in the brighter summer season. Perfect for those seeking a more serene seaside location with plenty of foodie spots and iconic sights to visit along the way.
Brockhill Country Park
Rich in wildlife and complete with picnic and play areas, as well as an on-site café, the scenic lake, meadows and woodlands of Brockhill make for a popular day out in the great outdoors. Follow the waymarked trails, stroll alongside the lake or embark further across the Kent Downs for more picturesque views and idyllic settings.
The Royal Military Canal
Constructed as a defense during the Napoleonic Wars, The Royal Military Canal stretches across 28 miles from just outside of Hythe to the border of East Sussex. A favourite for avid ramblers, cyclists and tourists, the canal offers a myriad of walking, cycling and bridle trails, as well as opportunities for rare wildlife spotting and boating in the warmer months.
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