insideKENT Magazine Issue 154 - February 2025 | Page 56

OUT- DOORSY SPOTS
GUIDE
CULTURAL HOTSPOTS
ST LEONARD ’ S CHURCH Opening again to visitors in late spring 2025 , St Leonard ’ s Church is famous for being the home to the largest and best-preserved collection of ancient human skulls and bones in Britain . Located within the crypt ( otherwise known as the Ossuary ), the collection ’ s earliest references date back to 1678 , and while fascinating theories abound , historians are still uncertain about their true origins .
ROMNEY , HYTHE & DYMCHURCH RAILWAY Established in 1927 and known as ‘ Kent ’ s Mainline in Miniature ’, the Romney , Hythe & Dymchurch Railway has been a heralded part of the county ’ s landscape since
DIVINE DINING
HIDE AND FOX Michelin star and AA Rosette award-winning restaurant that has firmly made its mark within Kent ’ s growing dining scene . Led by the deeply passionate and talented Allister and Alice , Hide and Fox are known for their commitment to exceptional flavours , perfectly pairing wines and outstanding customer service for an exquisite dining experience .
THE WATERFRONT Situated on the seafront and with an impressive menu that showcases traditional British cuisine , fine wines and highquality fresh seafood , The Waterfront prides itself on being the perfect location for any occasion . Enjoy a great selection of tipples , an elevated takeaway menu and fantastic alfresco dining options .
THE TRUFFLE PIG A modern deli-restaurant boasting a relaxing environment and creative menus that highlight a fantastic array of fresh , local and seasonal ingredients . With friendly service and excellent wine pairings , the team at The Truffle Pig serve fab food all day , including Sunday roasts and innovative five-course tasting menus .
Hide & Fox ( top left ), The Waterfront ( bottom left )
its opening . The railway ’ s one-third full-size steam and diesel locomotives travel daily from Hythe , terminating at the National Nature Reserve of Dungeness . With so much Kentish heritage to explore at every station , the RH & DR is an exceptional way to explore .
SALTWOOD CASTLE Complete with a moat , battlements and a secret garden , this enchanting landmark is best known for being the site where the assassination of Thomas Becket was plotted . Later the home of art historian Lord Clark of Saltwood and then his son , military historian and diarist , the late Rt . Hon . Alan Clark MP , the castle ’ s rich history is a true testament to the town ’ s development throughout the ages and is occasionally open to the public for special events and viewings .
OUT- DOORSY SPOTS
HYTHE SEAFRONT Delightful pebbled beach that remains ever-popular for both crisp seaside strolls in the winter and family adventures in the brighter summer season . Perfect for those seeking a more serene seaside location with plenty of foodie spots and iconic sights to visit along the way .
BROCKHILL COUNTRY PARK Rich in wildlife and complete with picnic and play areas , as well as an on-site café , the scenic lake , meadows and woodlands of Brockhill make for a popular day out in the great outdoors . Follow the waymarked trails , stroll alongside the lake or embark further across the Kent Downs for more picturesque views and idyllic settings .
MUST-SHOP ARTISAN STORES
THE SEWING SPACE Browse a wide range of fabrics , haberdashery and crafting accessories for all manner of quilting , dressmaking and arty endeavours . Alongside a beautiful collection of excellent materials , the shop also regularly holds creative workshops suitable for all abilities .
OBIDOSH From unique homewares and quirky accessories to handmade keepsakes and top beauty picks , when looking for the perfect gift , Hythe gem Obidosh is certain to have just the thing .
SHEPHERD HUT STUDIOS Perched upon Hythe ’ s charming high street , the Shepherd Hut Studios is a vibrant gallery run by husband and wife team , Andrea and Howard , who together create captivating original artworks and homewares that are inspired by the Kent coast and beyond .
THE ROYAL MILITARY CANAL Constructed as a defense during the Napoleonic Wars , The Royal Military Canal stretches across 28 miles from just outside of Hythe to the border of East Sussex . A favourite for avid ramblers , cyclists and tourists , the canal offers a myriad of walking , cycling and bridle trails , as well as opportunities for rare wildlife spotting and boating in the warmer months .
St Leonard ’ s Church ( top right ), Romney , Hythe & Dymchurch Railway ( bottom right )
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