Smallhythe Place — Attraction in Ashford

It’s a delight when you walk through a doorway and feel like you have stepped back in time. A former house to a shipbuilder when the local area was known for ship building: Smallhythe Place is a time capsule to when the building was inhabited by Ellen Terry; one of the finest actors of the 19th and 20th century.

Preserved as a memorial by her daughter Edy Craig, the house is filled with personal memories and effects from Terry’s long career on the stage. Mementoes such as Henry Irving’s glasses, W. S. Gilbert’s monocle and some of her own costumes are displayed in this wonky, creeky house. Unfortunately her green beetle dress that she wore when she was playing Lady Macbeth was not on show was it was being prepared for display in America.

In the grounds is the Barn theatre, converted into a performance space by her daughter. A highlight is seeing all the chairs with the names of subscribers who contributed money to the venture - Sybil Thorndike, John Gielgud, and Edy’s romantic partners Christabel Marshall (Chris) and Clare Attwood (Tony).

Smallhythe’s importance as the home of one of the 1920s/1930s most visible and prominent lesbian ménage a trois is also another reason as to why you should visit. LGBTQ+ programming is regularly put on, attracting a diverse audience to this beautifully...

Parking is just past the property in a layby overlooking fields. Sat Nav will say you've reached your destination a bit before- so don't be alarmed! Property is nestled behind a high hedge so easy to miss. Follow single pathway to cottage via the central gate. Ground floor is fairly open from hall. Cafe is down a slope and across grass (so not v disabled friendly) small area with teas, coffees, soft drinks and cakes served in lovely China: like my Grandma had! (all donated) also some seating outside on picnic tables. Toilets next door.

House is a treasure trove of theatre/acting history and groaning with fascinating items, billboards, death masks, paintings and photos- and some of Ellen Terry's magnificent costumes. Her famous Raphaelite Beetle dress (see photo of painting) is not there now, as currently being worked on ready for a special exhibition.

When you realise Ellen Terry was so highly respected she was paid £200 a week (£24,000 in our money!) your mind boggles!

Fabulous house, and thatched barn theatre with grasslands, pond and a small cottage garden of over 44 wonderfully scented roses, hollyhocks and blossoms - being enjoyed by many bees!

Volunteers were so friendly and informative! Lovely place to visit for a...

I was lucky to visit this beautiful place on a sunny spring day and the entire place looked stunning. The ambience & decor of the house just instantly transports you back to the late 1800's. There is an abundance of information around the house and to be honest I was in awe of the achievements and accolades. My four children all found something interesting within the home and were fascinated by many of the trinkets and the collection of posters. I think it's perfect for those who have children who are into drama and the arts as well as those learning about shakespeare etc. We also took part in the Easter hunt and although the cost was £3 per child, it was worth it as they spent a good while going through the booklet and finding all the things around the grounds. They also provided a good sized Easter egg to the children at the end. The grounds and barn were beautiful and the tea room was amazing. Staff were kind, helpful and had beautiful smiles. Thank you to you all for making our trip so memorable. I believe they are holding a showing of sense & sensibility in May which will definitely be...