Royal Military Canal, Hythe

Historic Waterways and Coastal Charm: Royal Military Canal, Hythe, Kent

Location: Royal Military Canal, Hythe, Kent, CT21 4NY (This postcode will take you to the general area of Hythe. The canal runs right through the town).

Suggested Starting Point & Parking:

• Hythe Town Centre: Various public car parks are available in Hythe town centre, often paid (e.g., Stade Street, CT21 6AE). From here, you can easily access the canal path.
• Disabled Access Point (if suitable): There are specific disabled access points and a short stretch of boardwalk at the western end of the canal near Hythe (e.g., near Twiss Road, CT21 5PB), offering a different starting option.
  
  

The Walk:

This walk follows a linear path along the Royal Military Canal, offering an out-and-back journey of flexible length, typically ranging from 2 to 6+ miles (1-3+ miles each way) depending on how far you choose to walk.

1. Starting from Hythe Town Centre: Locate the Royal Military Canal, which runs directly through Hythe. Pick up the path alongside it. You can choose to walk east towards Seabrook or west towards the village of West Hythe.

2. Riverside Tranquility: Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere as you stroll alongside the historic canal. The canal, built as a defence against Napoleon, runs for 28 miles across Kent and East Sussex. The Hythe section is particularly picturesque, with its tree-lined banks and calm waters.

3. Observe Wildlife: The canal is a haven for wildlife. Keep an eye out for various waterfowl (ducks, swans, moorhens), dragonflies in warmer months, and perhaps even a glimpse of a kingfisher. Your dog will enjoy the myriad of new scents from the water and bankside vegetation.

4. Passing By: The path will take you past residential areas on one side and often open fields or marshland on the other, offering varied views. You'll pass under bridges and might see small boats or canoes on the water.

5. Flexibility of Length: The beauty of this walk is its flexibility. You can walk for as long as you like and then simply turn around and retrace your steps.

   • Walking West (towards West Hythe/Botolph's Bridge): This direction takes you towards quieter, more rural sections of the canal, with open views across the Romney Marsh.
   • Walking East (towards Seabrook/Sandgate): This direction may feel slightly more urban initially as it passes through the edge of Hythe, eventually leading towards the coastal areas.

6. Dog-Friendly Stops (Optional): Hythe town centre offers various amenities. Some pubs or cafes in Hythe are dog-friendly, offering a chance for refreshments before or after your walk (always check their specific policies).

7. The Return Journey: Simply retrace your steps along the scenic canal path back to your starting point.
   
   

Points to Consider:

• Shared Path: The canal path is popular with cyclists, other walkers, and sometimes runners. Be aware of bikes approaching from either direction and keep your dog close and under control when they pass.
• Water Safety: The canal has deep water. Keep your dog away from the edge and do not allow them to swim, as currents can be deceptive, and the banks may be soft or slippery.
• Water for Dogs: Bring plenty of fresh water for your dog, especially on longer walks or warmer days, as public water facilities are limited along the canal itself.
• Dog Waste: Please be a responsible dog owner and always clean up after your dog. Use the bins provided in Hythe town or along popular sections, or be prepared to take all waste home with you.
• Wildlife Protection: Be mindful of the wildlife along the canal, especially nesting birds. Keep your dog from disturbing them.
• Exposure: While tree-lined in parts, sections of the canal path are quite open, so be prepared for sun, wind, or rain.
  
  

Why Your Dog Will Love This Walk:

• Long, Flat Paths: Perfect for a steady pace and stretching those legs without too much strain.
• Constant Watery Scents: The canal provides a continuous stream of interesting smells from the water and bankside vegetation.
• Relaxed Atmosphere: A peaceful and enjoyable environment away from road traffic.
• Easy to Adapt: Short or long, it's easy to tailor the walk to your dog's energy levels.
  
  

Overall:

The Royal Military Canal at Hythe offers a delightful, historically rich, and wonderfully accessible dog walking experience in Kent. Its flat, well-maintained path, scenic waterside views, and dog-friendly atmosphere make it an ideal choice for a relaxing yet rewarding outing with your four-legged companion. Enjoy stepping back in time while enjoying the fresh air!

Image: © Copyright Tim Heaton and licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence.