Smuggler's Retreat

Latest 1907

High Street

Hythe

Above postcard dated 1910. Two years after the premises was demolished. Kindly sent by Rory Kehoe.

Above postcard postmarked 1922. The premises was demolished in 1907.

Above postcard, date unknown.

Above photo, date unknown.

The "Smuggler's Retreat" as the name suggests was a smuggler's pub, the top window being used to signal with a lantern the smugglers out at sea, when it was safe to bring in their booty.

In 1905 George Wire, Fishmonger and Poulterer open up a shop in the building which is believed to date back to 1500.

Above photo circa 1905, showing part of the premises being used as a Fishmongers.

Mid Sussex Times, Tuesday 6 August 1907.

The Smugglers Retreat.

The ancient and picturesque building in Hythe, Kent, known as the "Smugglers' Retreat," dating back to 1580, is threatened with demolition, as the town council consider it in a dangerous condition, the massive oak beam showing signs of giving way.

The local legend is that from the window of its particular turret-like addition signals were flashed out to sea in the old smuggling days for the warning or guidance of the "free traders." The Society for the Preservation of the Beauties of Hythe have held a meeting with the object of preventing the threatened destruction, if possible.

The building was demolished in 1907 and replaced with three mock Tudor shops.

Above Google image, May 2009.

LICENSEE LIST

If anyone should have any further information, or indeed any pictures or photographs of the above licensed premises, please email:-

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