The Coastguard Lookout

• Sleeps: 5
• Bedrooms: 2
• Bathroom: 1
• Minimum stay: 1 night

Perched on the Kent coast in enigmatic Dungeness (Britain’s only desert), Coastguard Lookout has it all: a spectacular location, breath-taking views in every direction, exceptional design and décor, and a healthy dose of history to boot. What’s more, it’s been named one of the quirkiest places to stay with kids in the UK by AOL Travel, and was listed as one of the most unusual holiday homes by the Great Destinations Radio Show!

Formerly an HM Coastguard radar monitoring station, this impressive four-storey building once detected and tracked ships in the Channel. Today, it’s been sensitively transformed into sensational accommodation for five guests, without losing any of its unique character.

Inside this original 1950s tower, you’ll now discover beautiful open-plan living, expertly designed by renowned architecture firm Johnson Naylor. Each level makes the very most of this exceptional position, bringing the stunning outdoors inside throughout. You’ll also note a restful beach theme in the stylish, modern décor, adding to your experience by the sea.

The ground floor features the first of Coastguard Lookout’s two reception rooms. This open-plan kitchen and dining area makes the most of those views out to sea, all the while comprising all you need for sensational self-catering – including an electric oven and hob, two fridges with an ice-box, and a compact dishwasher for easy clearing up.

Up the metal stairs, you’ll come to the first bedroom – a family room with a cosy double bed and an additional single bed. Freshen up in the open-plan bathroom, separated from the bedroom by a partial wall and a partition curtain, retaining the free-flowing feel of this airy and tranquil home.

The floor above features a sensational sitting room, where built-in seating and armchairs are perfectly positioned for appreciating the gallery views out to sea. Whether you’re watching from inside or on the balcony, you’ll witness a continuous stream of passing ships, moody skies and sparkling water. On a clear day, you may even see as far as Cap Gris Nez – the nearest point of France! Back inside, curl up beside the log burner and relax in front of the television (played through an iMac computer), soaking up every second of peace and luxury in this unique spot.

The top floor is where you’ll discover Coastguard Lookout’s final bedroom – a compact tower bedroom with a double bed and a second balcony, featuring two loungers for relaxing back to the sound of the waves. Heavenly!

At a glance

• Former HM Coastguard radar monitoring station on Dungeness Estate, Kent
• Sleeps 5 (1 en-suite family room with double and single; 1 double)
• Sensational accommodation across four floors
• Two balconies and gallery windows make the most of sea views
• Direct access to shingle beach
• Pet-friendly
• Explore dramatic Dungeness; Rye – 10 miles

Features

• Dog Friendly
• Family Friendly
• Seaside Breaks

More information

And why just listen to them when you can paddle in them? With an outdoor patio area leading directly to the beach, you can be dipping your toes in the beautiful briny in seconds. Enjoy windswept walks along the shingle beach, let yourself be inspired by the haunting vastness of Dungeness, and revel in the peace this remote corner of Britain offers.

You’re not far from civilisation though when you need to touch base, which adds to Coastguard Lookout’s list of many charms. Relax with a pint in one of Dungeness’ two pubs, or enjoy freshly caught fish at the wonderful Fish Hut. Be sure to visit the Old Lighthouse as you explore, while a 10-mile trip in the car will take you to historic Rye and its collection of winding streets, exquisite architecture and superb shops and restaurants.

It’s easy to see why Coastguard Lookout comes so highly recommended, but you have to visit for yourself to truly appreciate the uniqueness of this fabulous home. So what are you waiting for?

Things to note

Fold-up highchair and cot available upon prior arrangement, due to the steep staircases this property is not suitable for those with restricted mobility, startup logs provided between October and March, the property can be combined with Fog Signal Building for a larger group of 7, dogs are welcome upon prior arrangement.