Nestled within the greenery of Oaklands Park in Hythe, Kent, the town’s bandstand has been transformed from a forgotten structure into one of the most artistic and visually striking landmarks in the county. Once a plain concrete base — in fact, an obsolete segment originally used during the construction of the Channel Tunnel — it has been reimagined as a stunning showcase of art, music, and local heritage.
Now adorned with 17 hand-crafted panels, the bandstand vividly celebrates Hythe’s coastal charm, historical depth, and treasured landmarks. Each panel tells its own story, drawing inspiration from the nearby Fisherman’s Beach and the town’s rich cultural tapestry.
Uniting these panels is a wonderfully whimsical musical score of “Under the Sea,” with sea creatures replacing traditional musical notes — a joyful concept created by local children and members of the public. This integration of music and marine life captures the spirit of the community and the creativity that flows through it.
Most recently, the steps and upper perimeter of the bandstand have been transformed with shimmering iridescent tiles designed to catch the sunlight, bringing the structure to life with every glint and glow. Alongside this vibrant feature are 20 inspiring musical quotes from celebrated artists, and at the base of the steps, a line invites all to embrace the joy of music: “If music be the food of love – play on.”
This extraordinary transformation is the result of a powerful collaboration between Hythe Town Council, The Oaklands Trust, and the artistic vision of Yolanda Houston and her Teach Me team. Their combined passion, skill, and community spirit have brought new energy to the park and given residents a space that is not only functional but also deeply meaningful.
And the journey isn’t over yet. A new youth-led project is planned for next year to rejuvenate the central bandstand area where musicians perform, continuing the theme of creativity and community involvement.
The Oaklands Park Bandstand now stands as one of Kent’s most beautiful and artistic bandstands — a symbol of transformation, unity, and the enduring power of public art. It is a shining example of what can be achieved when vision, talent, and community come together.