Hythe Beach Guide
Set along the south Kent coast between Folkestone and Dymchurch, Hythe Beach offers a peaceful seaside escape with wide views across the English Channel. Known for its long shingle shoreline, calm atmosphere, and easy access from the town centre, it’s a popular choice for walkers, swimmers, and visitors looking for a quieter alternative to busier resort beaches.
Backed by the Royal Military Canal and close to Hythe’s historic high street, Hythe Beach combines coastal scenery with heritage and relaxed seaside charm.
About Hythe Beach
Hythe Beach is a predominantly shingle beach stretching for several miles along the coast. The shoreline shelves relatively steeply into the sea, meaning the water becomes deep quickly, which makes it popular with confident swimmers in suitable conditions.
The beach is wide and open, offering uninterrupted sea views and plenty of space for walking and relaxing. At low tide, the exposed shoreline is ideal for long walks, while at high tide the sea comes close to the promenade, creating a dramatic coastal setting.
Thanks to its quieter character, Hythe Beach is especially popular outside peak summer months and is well suited to visitors looking for space, fresh air, and coastal walks.
Things to Do at Hythe Beach
Walk Along the Seafront
The promenade runs alongside the beach and connects with coastal paths leading towards Dymchurch and Folkestone, making it ideal for long walks and cycling.
Swimming and Cold-Water Dipping
Swimming is popular at Hythe Beach during calm conditions, particularly among cold-water swimmers. Visitors should be mindful of the steep shelving beach and changing sea conditions.
Explore the Royal Military Canal
Running parallel to the beach, the Royal Military Canal offers a flat, scenic walking and cycling route through Hythe and beyond.
Visit Hythe Town
Just a short walk from the seafront, Hythe’s town centre features independent shops, cafés, pubs, and historic buildings, including the medieval church of St Leonard.
Sunsets and Sea Views
The open coastline makes Hythe Beach a great spot for watching the sunset over the Channel, especially on clear evenings.
Visitor Information
Getting There
By train: Folkestone Central or Westenhanger, then bus or taxi.
By car: Follow the A259 along the south Kent coast.
Parking & Facilities
Pay-and-display parking along Marine Parade and nearby streets.
Public toilets, promenade seating, cafés nearby in Hythe town.
Map
