Small Hythe

Small Hythe in Kent Hamlet Guide

About Small Hythe in Kent

Smallhythe is a hamlet that lies on the Levels between Wittersham and Tenterden on the B2082.

It was once the harbour and port for nearby Tenterden as the River Rother, which was navigable for large ships once flowed past Smallhythe. It was also an important shipbuilding centre using timber from the nearby Wealden Forests. One of Henry VIII’s warships was built at Smallhythe and Henry visited the port in 1538 to view the ship under construction.

Smallhythe suffered a devastating fire in 1514, which almost destroyed the entire village. Smallhythe Place was probably built after this disaster and used by the harbourmaster as the Port House for the flourishing shipyard.

The actress Ellen Terry, who played opposite Sir Henry Irving in the late nineteenth century, purchased Smallhythe Place in 1899 and lived there until her death in 1928. Today the building is owned by the National Trust and has a unique collection of costumes and memorabilia related to Ellen Terry.

As you travel up the hill from the Levels you pass the Priest’s House, another beautiful half-timbered house and the church, rebuilt after the fire in brick, which was fashionable at the time. At the top of the hill there are vineyards and the home of one of the largest producers of English wine in the country.

What’s new?

95 Udimore Road
95 Udimore Road

Located in Rye in the East Sussex region, 95 Udimore Road has a terrace.

Listed in: Bed and Breakfast

Attractions and Activities

Rye Sports Centre

Modern facilities, friendly staff and great value … all at Freedom Leisure Rye! Situated just behind the railway station, parking is free to Centre users. Please collect a parking ticket from reception

Parish Church of St Mary the Virgin

For almost 900 years the Parish Church of Rye, dedicated to St Mary the Virgin, has dominated the hill on which the old town stands. It has stood through good times and bad. In 1377 when the town was looted … more

Accommodation

1 Regent Square

2 bedroom modern house in Rye Town centre with private parking. Sleeps up to 5 persons. Fully fitted kitchen with washer/dryer and dishwasher. All linen, towels, gas,electric & Wi-Fi are included in the price. Min stay 2 nights winter. 3 … more

Haydens

Haydens is a small, family-run, environmentally friendly B&B right in the heart of the ancient market town of Rye, an area gilded in literary and artistic history. We aim to provide a comfortable and luxurious setting for guests to relax … more

Oasthouse Loft

A wonderfully warm and cosy, romantic hideaway in an exquisite country location with 360-degree panoramic views. Tastefully furnished in a comfortable, subtle yet contemporary style the Oasthouse Loft offers spacious, quality rural accommodation. Enjoy nestling on ancient farmland pastures, in … more

Restaurants

The Mermaid Inn

One of England’s oldest and loveliest inns, with Norman cellars dating from 1156, the Mermaid, rebuilt in 1420, offers tradition and charm in abundance. A jewel in the crown of Rye, the inn has a wide range of accommodation including … more

Big Guys French Fries

We’re an independent small restaurant located steps from the centre of town. We’re proud to be the favourite for locals to meet friends for a beer or call for a fresh “big guy burger”. We serve juicy big burgers and … more

Flackley Ash Hotel, Restaurant & Spa

Located in the Sussex countryside 4 miles from the historic town of Rye, Flackley Ash is a delightful Grade II listed Georgian country house with an award-winning restaurant, a bar and spa facilities. The hotel’s spa features various treatment rooms. … more

Towns and villages near Small Hythe …

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