Nestled along the Kent coastline is the wonderful pairing of Sandgate and Hythe, both promise history, sea views and culinary delights.
Stroll along the picturesque promenade of Sandgate and see the pastel-hued beach huts or dip your toes in the fresh waters of the bay. When hunger calls, Sandgate’s charming cafes and bistros offer respite for adventurers. Head to Mr Whippets, a great spot for those strolling with a pooch as they serve puppuccinos and dog biscuits for your pet to enjoy! If you’re looking for somewhere to sit and enjoy a lazy morning, head to LOAF, who serve delectable toasties, scrumptious cakes and more. For the avid coffee lover, Orchard Lane is your place, they are serious about coffee so you will find the perfect cup here along with a delicious pastry to accompany it.
Places to stay in Sandgate
Use The Hideout as your coastal base, this dog-friendly holiday home in Sandgate sleeps four and has far-reaching views over the beach and out to sea. Once you’ve unpacked and got your intake of fresh sea air head back into Sandgate’s high street. It’s dotted with a delightful array of independent shops and eateries. Sample local and continental treats from one of the delis, our favourites are The Sandgate Deli or Natalina’s. Visit Dockers Brewery and taproom for local beers or enjoy a wine tasting experience at the friendly John Dory tasting rooms. You can easily spend the whole day going from shop to shop in Sandgate.
If it’s just the two of you on this coastal holiday, check into Pebbles in Sandgate. It was recently reviewed as being “so close to the water, it felt like we were on a ship!” This wonderful studio has everything you need for a seaside break with glorious views across to France. The large terrace gets the sun most of the day, allowing you to enjoy a dip in the sea between sunbathing. Or if you’re keen to get your steps in there are wonderful coastal walks from the property to Folkestone (1.5 miles) and Hythe (3.2 miles) and each town has a wealth of activities on offer.
Pubs in Sandgate
Those looking for a pub stop won’t be disappointed as there are plenty of inns to choose from in Sandgate. The Famous Ship Inn is a great choice. Established in 1798, this bustling community pub and restaurant serves cooked breakfasts in the morning, homemade focaccia sandwiches and locally caught fish and chips in the afternoon. In the evenings, dine on their own dry-aged steaks and seafood specials. The newly refurbished restaurant is the ultimate setting for Sunday roasts with stunning sea views, bright and airy in the day, and candle-lit by night. For those simply wanting to enjoy a drink, the log fires create a cosy bar area, serving local ales, speciality wines and more.
Sandgate’s neighbouring seaside town Hythe is certainly worth a visit. The high street is lined with plenty of traditional shops such as butchers, greengrocers and boutiques. Hythe is alive with all the hustle and bustle that it ever has been.
For history enthusiasts, Hythe offers a treasure trove of architectural wonders too. Explore the storied hall of St. Leonard’s Church home to the legendary Crypt of St. Leonard, where medieval legends intertwine with whispered secrets. The Ossuary and Crypt is home to a remarkable collection of human bones, neatly stacked – the mystery being that no one knows for sure who they once belonged to… the largest and best-preserved collection of ancient human skulls and bones in Britain, this collection consists of shelves in four arched bays containing 1,000 skulls in total. Theories about the owners range from those who died in the Battle of Hastings to Danish pirates.
Places to eat in Hythe
As still evenings are painted with mesmerising orange sunsets, Hythe seafront transforms into an ideal setting for evening picnics and leisurely strolls. The Waterfront Restaurant and Cocktail Bar is a great way to witness this, offering a front-row seat to the ocean’s splendour. For those craving something lighter, visit The Truffle Pig, back in Hythe’s high street, this charming deli restaurant uses fresh, local and excellent seasonal ingredients. Enjoy homemade English scones, followed by their signature sweet pastries, or book a seat at Chef’s Table on Friday or Saturday evening to enjoy a beautifully presented five-course tasting menu.
Places to stay in Hythe
For large accommodation for the whole family, take a look at The Landing in Hythe, This coastal holiday home sleeps 6 and it is dog-friendly. Its very name is the “landing place” and historically was a major port on the English Channel. Or check out Wave Cottage, a perfect base for you, your family and four-legged friends. This holiday home is well received by many happy guests who enjoy a wonderfully personal service. Spend relaxing afternoons on the patio watching the ships sail by, take a trip on the Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch miniature railway (which is a real treat for adults and children) or enjoy a visit to the amazing Port Lympne Wild Animal Park, which boasts an impressive array of over 900 rare and endangered species. Encounter the UK’s largest herd of black rhinos, majestic gorillas, regal lions, stealthy leopards, and the county’s exclusive spectacled bears within its sprawling grounds.
If you’re looking to book a coastal holiday get in touch with our friendly team who would be more than happy to advise you on places to see, eat and stay along the Kent and Sussex coastline.
