insideKENT Magazine Issue 42 - September 2015 | Page 104

GETAWAYS

Hythe Imperial Hotel

BY SAMANTHA G

Not content with relying on its architectural draw, a vigorous, yet refined
refurbishment and investment programme has truly created a haven by the sea…

© Pete @ Ap-Art Photography

© Pete @ Ap-Art Photography

Since its inception as a hotel way back in 1880,
it’s easy to see why the Hythe Imperial Hotel has
been a popular destination forn holidaying
highflyers. The stunning 19th-century building
born out of Victorian attention to detail and
craftsmanship is not only beautiful to look at, but
also to look out from, as it sits majestic and proud
on the Hythe coastline. Fast-forward over a 100
years, and whilst additions and changes have
been made, not least to name and ownership,
and including an exterior facelift in 2011, the
building itself is still a true testament to its original
incarnation, and its appeal has spread to also
cater for the business, golf and spa markets.
On arrival, I was initially surprised to find that the
main entrance to the hotel is actually not through
its coastal facade but instead through the gardens

away from the coastal road. However, rather
than detracting from the building and setting, it
means that the layout masterfully makes use of
its stunning location, and in doing so, provides
two of its facilities – the ground floor Coast
restaurant and the first floor Imperial Ballroom –
with uninterrupted, panoramic sea views.
The refurbishment programme has also extended
to the rooms and is evidenced initially by the
fresh, cool, muted grey corridors and entrance
areas adorned with beautiful black and white
imagery of the hotel and local area from bygone
days. The 100 rooms and suites, of which no
two are the same, command either garden or
sea views and range from cosy and intimate
standard rooms to practical and comfortable
family rooms and stylish and spacious
junior suites.

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Dining is an important element of the Hythe
Imperial offering, and as well as serving breakfasts
to overnight guests each morning, Coast offers
fine dining with its evening and Sunday Lunch
menus. Sourcing ingredients locally using
producers and suppliers such as Griggs, Huntleys
of Tenterden and Coastal of Canterbury, the
restaurant's promise \