Hythe Area Guide

A seaside haven with stunning views of the Channel, Hythe is situated on the sunny south coast of Kent. If you’re looking for a town packed with quirky independent stores, top sporting facilities and scenic walks, property in Hythe is right up your street.

Welcome to Hythe

Hythe is a small and friendly town with excellent local amenities, from watersports clubs and cycling paths to quirky cafés and restaurants serving fresh seafood. Situated close to the popular walking routes of the Royal Military Canal, Hythe's high street is great for shopping. Instead of big national chains, you'll find an array of independent stores selling everything from vintage clothing and jewellery to unique homeware and culinary delights.

Why Hythe is a hit with families

Property in Hythe is an excellent choice for families who want to be close to the coast with access to good schools. There's Hythe Bay, Seabrook and St Augustine's primary schools for little ones, while for older students, Brockville Park comprehensive and the grammar schools of nearby Folkestone enjoy excellent reputations.

Getting around in Hythe

Hythe enjoys easy transport links with Folkestone thanks to the M20, which connects the two towns and means the Channel Tunnel is just a 15-minute drive away. There are three local railway stations within easy reach – Folkestone West, Sandling and Westenhanger. Folkestone boasts a fast train service to London, with trains departing twice an hour for St Pancras. It’s also just a 15-minute journey from Folkstone West to Dover by train.

A short history of Hythe

One of the original Cinque Ports that defended the Kent coast against invasion, Hythe’s harbour has disappeared over the years due to gradual silting. Today you can still see the remains of the Martello Towers, small defensive forts built during the Napoleonic Wars, and a number of other historic buildings, including Saltwood Castle and St Leonard's Church, which dates back to the 11th century.

The Great Outdoors in Hythe

Fans of watersports will find plenty to keep them occupied in Hythe, with the town boasting its own sailing, canoeing and kite surfing facilities. If you prefer to get out and about on land, you can hire bikes to cycle along the seafront or walk the Saxon Shore Way to Rye and enjoy unspoilt sea views all the way.

Dining and Entertainment in Hythe

Close to the beautiful Kent countryside, Hythe is within reach of family-friendly attractions, including Port Lympne nature reserve, home to rare and endangered animals from big cats to gorillas. Property in Hythe also benefits from an array of trendy drinking and dining venues. Local favourites include the Unit 1 micropub in West Hythe and the Sunshine Bar & Grill Turkish restaurant, Aspendo's kebab house, and the Hythe Bay Seafood restaurant.