Exploring Hythe, Kent, during your mini-break

Day One

On your first morning enjoy a 10-minute seafront stroll for breakfast at The Lazy Shack. Sample one of their famous Scallop and Bacon baguettes and enjoy the rustic charm of breakfast at Fisherman’s Beach. Purchase some locally caught fish such as Dover Sole or meat such as locally bred Romney Marsh Lamb to enjoy within the apartment or for a BBQ a deux in the evening.

After breakfast, walk back along the seafront and take a stroll along Ladies Walk towards Hythe High Street, taking a few minutes to appreciate the beauty of the Hythe Military Canal from the Ladies Walk Bridge. Wander the High Street and peek inside any one of Hythe’s boutique shops.

Stop at TwentyFour for a light refreshment and stock up on organic groceries before returning towards the seafront. Make your way to the Click2Cycle bike hire station only a couple of minutes’ walk from The Beach Escapes.

When you are ready, cycle east on the flat seafront promenade towards Folkestone, which takes approximately 30-40 minutes. Once you have arrived in Folkestone head to Rocksalt – a renowned seaside retreat with floor to ceiling panoramic views of Folkestone Harbour. After lunch take a gentle walk along the Harbour Arm and enjoy a glass of bubbles at the Lighthouse Champagne Bar at the furthest point of the arm. Whilst sipping on your Champagne see if you can spot a few of Folkestone’s exhibits from its famous collection of outdoor artworks, the largest collection in the UK.

When it is time to return home, take the seafront or return via the canal path that runs from Seabrook to Hythe. After a busy day, relax with a glass of wine within the apartment whilst preparing a BBQ or kitchen supper! Relax by playing one of the games from the entertainment cupboard or take an evening stroll along the beach to The Waterfront for an evening drink and marvel at how bright the stars shine away from the city lights.

Day Two

On your second morning, enjoy a light breakfast within the apartment before taking a trip to Sissinghurst and Tenterden, approximately a 30 minute drive from The Beach Escapes.

Travel first to Sissinghurst Castle. Discover the varied history of this incredible castle from a prison during the time of the 7 Year War, to a farm and now home to one of the UK’s most prestigious gardens. Don’t miss the tour of the South Cottage during which volunteers bring the wonderful story of the Castle’s last private residents, Vita and Harold Sackville-West, to life. Take a walk within the gardens of the property, in our opinion the Rose Garden and the South Cottage Garden, especially in the late Summer and Autumn, are a must.

Next, travel towards Tenterden and find yourself at Chapel Down – England’s leading award-winning wine producer. Take the guided tour of the vineyard and learn more about the vineyard cycle and the intricate details of producing traditional method sparkling wine. Then sample the award-winning sparkling and still wines during one of Chapel Down’s tutored tasting sessions. If you are peckish indulge in some treats from the Chapel Down shop’s deli counter and sample some locally produced cheese and charcuterie produce.

After a busy day and once you have returned to Hythe, get ready for a well-deserved Michelin starred meal at The Hide and Fox in Saltwood, only a five minute drive away. The Hide and Fox recently celebrated receiving three AAA Rosettes and is seen as one of the must-visit restaurants in the UK. The five or eight course Tasting Menu is a feast not only for the palate, but also for your eyes. We would strongly recommend that you pair your meal with the Wine Flight to ensure you make the most of this culinary delight – and take a taxi home!

Day Three

On your final day, enjoy a relaxing breakfast within the apartment and get ready to travel to the city of Canterbury which is a 25minute journey from The Beach Escapes. Take one of the guided tours of Canterbury Cathedral and discover the history of the Cathedral from the re-establishment of Christianity in England to the gruesome murder of Thomas Beckett’s, which made Canterbury one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the medieval world.

After marvelling at the soaring architecture and beauty of the stained-glass windows, find a spot for something to eat; there are many lovely places for brunch and supper – and everything in between!

Afterwards head to the shops or, for those with more energy, hire a punt and take a private guided tour through the narrow riverways learning more about this historic city. Ghost tours are also available in the evenings! On your return to Hythe, enjoy a glass of wine in the apartment and then take a short walk along the promenade to The Waterfront restaurant for dinner. With a wide choice and variety of cuisine it’s a great venue to sit outside, so we hope the weather is favourable! Our recommendation would be the Moules which you can devour whilst listening to the waves and planning your next trip to return to The Beach Escapes…