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

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

The Colonel Stephens Railway Museum

Records the career of Holman Fred Stephens, light railway promoter, engineer and manager, his family, his railways and his successors

Hemsted Park

Hemsted Park is a leading performing arts venue in the heart of Kent, based on the stunning 250-acre site of the world-renowned Benenden School. Hemsted Park’s performance spaces principally comprise the stunning new Centenary Hall, which has established one of … more

Accommodation

Flushing House

This fascinating Grade II* listed house of immense historical interest was built around 1520 and boasts the original Tudor turning staircase.it was also extensively used in the Mapp and Lucia filming in Rye. Flushing House has a Gold Award given … more

Quarter House

Enjoy stylish, romantic beamed surroundings in the heart of the historic walled Citadel of Medieval Rye. This unusual, converted Grade II listed two-storey apartment retains original features including an open log fire, original wooden floors & beams dating back to … more

Glencoe Farm

Set in 5 acres and yet just over a five minute walk to the town centre and citadel of Rye, Glencoe is peacefully situated overlooking fields towards the ancient town of Winchelsea. The many excellent restaurants and public houses of … more

Restaurants

River Haven Hotel

A Warm welcome awaits you at the River Haven Hotel & Restaurant. This family run comfortable Hotel of 22 en-suite rooms in the Ancient town of Rye is situated on the Strand Quay over looking the River Tillingham. Our conservatory … more

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

Webbe’s at the Fish Café

Welcome to Webbe’s in Rye. A vibrant lively restaurant atmosphere with open plan kitchen area where you can view your meal in its creation, for serious diners and families alike. This upbeat eatery will meet your every need when you … more

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