On the south coast of Kent, Hythe is a small and peaceful coastal town that’s perfect for families, young professionals and retired couples. The town has plenty of charm and history, making it a picturesque seaside town with many tales to tell.
Transport links here are good and include a high-speed train service that travels from Folkestone West, taking you to London St. Pancras in just 54 minutes. The M20 is nearby and connects to the M2, driving to London easily. The great train and road links mean that it’s easy for residents to travel all over the country.
Saltwood Church of England Primary School is renowned for being an excellent local school that’s been rated outstanding by Ofsted, and it keeps close ties to the local community. There are several other brilliant primary schools in the area and popular secondary schools, like Brockhill Park Performing Arts College and the Folkestone School for Girls.
Hythe has a long high street with various boutique stores and independent coffee shops and restaurants. Pixie of Hythe is an independent clothing store, Obidosh sells lovely gifts, and The Malthouse Hythe is a vintage shop with many a treasure to find. The town has a fortnightly farmers market too.
When heading for a walk on the local beach, grab a coffee from Café on the Beach. Or if you’d rather find somewhere to sit with friends, then Truly Scrummy is an excellent option.
The Lazy Lobster/The Lazy Shack is right on the seafront and serves delicious fresh food with outdoor seating when the weather’s good. Thailand Tom serves delicious Thai curries and noodles, and Tiffinbox Indian Restaurant & Takeaway is very popular with locals.
You’re spoilt for choice when heading out for a drink. There are so many pubs to choose from, such as The Three Mariners, the historic Kings Head and The Butt of Sherry, a fantastic, traditional pub.
When it comes to healthcare, there are local GPs, pharmacies and Hythe Hospital.
If you enjoy the water, then the seafront and Royal Military Canal both have excellent walks. The long stretch of Hythe Beach has plenty of space to enjoy the seaside, and there’s a promenade behind it with good paths and food, drink and ice cream vendors.
The local high street hosts a bi-annual Venetian Fete, an amazing spectacle with processions of decorated floats drifting along the canal accompanied by live music, entertainment and fireworks.
The famous Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch miniature railway is one of Kent’s top attractions with their steam and diesel locomotives, one-third of the normal size. The 13.5-mile route stops at the station in Hythe and goes all the way to Dungeness. There are several stops along the way, making this an exciting way to explore this coastline.
