Hythe, England Guide & Hotel Reservations from Cheap Hotels Worldwide

Hythe is a small seaside resort in the District of Shepway. It is one of the five original Cinque Ports of Kent. The name means "landing place" and it was here in the 13th century that 200 French soldiers attempted a landing, only to be driven off by the local people. It has endured many disasters through its history with one of the worst being the Black Death in the late 1300s.

Stroll along the scenic banks of the Royal Military Canal and see two of the Martello Towers. These were forts built during the Napoleonic Wars to help defend the coast against an attack by the French. There are also alleys that lead into the center of town.
Visit the Church of St. Leonard, which dates back to the 11th century. See the more than 200 skulls, dating back to medieval times, stored in the Chancel of this church. Experts believe they were stored there to make room in the graveyard for the more recent dead of the town. This is a rare collection because this practice, once common in England, no longer exists.

The importance that Hythe once played in the history of England is evident with the presence of two castles - Saltwood and Lympe. In fact, there are four castles in this region, which makes for very interesting explorations. This will give you a look at how royalty lived in the 12th and 13th centuries. The Port Lympe Wild Animal Park is nearby and is open all year round. Here you will find more than 400 animals, walled gardens and a historic mansion. You can take a safari ride through the park to see the animals, but you are also free to walk through as well. Enjoy some of the most stunning views in the Southeast of England when you visit Hythe.