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?

Rye Town Hall
Rye Town Hall

Built in 1742, the elegant Georgian Town Hall in Rye is an ideal venue for your special day. A unique … more

Listed in: Town Halls

Attractions and Activities

Rye Bay Ebikes

Ebike Hire, Tour, Sales and Servicing shop in Rye, East Sussex. Great fun for all the family and furry friends. Electric bikes are available to hire from age 14. Hourly, half day and full day and longer rentals available. A … more

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

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

Rye Windmill B&B

Rye’s white smock windmill is a grade II listed building and one of its most famous landmarks. Tucked away in one of England’s quaintest coastal towns, our welcoming Bed and Breakfast is ideally located with the High Street and the … more

The Highlands

This large secluded Victorian house sleeps 11 and has breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside towards Rye. Inside the rooms are light and airy. The property has undergone a total restoration and refurbishment. Period features have been lovingly restored and … 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 Ship Inn

In the centre of the small, charming town of Rye, the Ship is a modern take on the traditional English inn – a cosy pub, rich in original character, with simple, comfortable en suite rooms above. Originally built in 1592, … 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

Towns and villages near Small Hythe …

Explore Small Hythe ...