Smallhythe was a shipbuilding location in the Middle Ages when ships were built on the river foreshore. It is more famous as being the home of the actress Ellen Terry who lived thee for many years. After her death, her daughter Edith Craig opened the house to the public as a museum in her memory. She also created the barn theatre where plays have been presented regulalry since 1929. Smallhythe Place is now owned by the National Trust.
The barn is a small, thatched, timber-framed, Kentish aisled barn. The theatre stage is at one end with the nave and aisles providing seating for the audience. Entrance is through the long wagon porch.
