Salmestone Dutch Barge
- Premier host
- Sandwich, Kent, England
- See on map
- Sleeps: 6
- Bedroom: 1
- Bathrooms: 2
- Minimum stay: 2 nights
What better way to explore the delights of Sandwich – one of England’s best-preserved medieval towns – than with a tranquil stay aboard a 110 year-old Dutch barge?
You’ll find the quirky, irresistibly homely Salmestone moored on the tidal river Stour, right in the heart of Sandwich. Dog-friendly and sleeping up to six guests, you can stretch out in over 1,000 square feet of living space.
Friendly owner Archie has put a great deal of life and care into Salmestone, and it shows. Carefully renovated over twelve years, she represents a true labour of love, with everything you’ll need for a relaxing stay included (and much more besides!)
Stay toasty whatever the weather, with central heating and comfy furnishings throughout, and plenty of seated outdoor space for balmy afternoons. A flat screen TV and a selection of board games are provided for cosy evenings in after a hard day’s sightseeing, while the walls are adorned with unique artwork – and of course, the obligatory portholes.
(Salmestone may be permanently moored, but there’s nothing to stop you grabbing the his ‘n’ hers Captain hats, taking the wheel and pretending to set sail on the ocean waves!)
Meanwhile, the galley kitchen is fully equipped for whipping up feasts of all descriptions, with its microwave, mini hot stove, and even an AGA. With pots, pans, crockery, utensils – and a whistling kettle! – all supplied, you can pack perfectly light. Oh, and there’s even a Captain’s dining table for everyone to come together and enjoy the fruits of your culinary labour.
The spacious master bedroom features an ensuite shower, with a separate family shower room that means no awkward morning queues for the bathroom. You’ll also find a cosy sofa bed and two roomy, adult-size bunks…perfect for the big kids amongst you!
Keep readingAt a glance
- A lovingly renovated, 110 year-old Dutch barge sleeping up to six guests, permanently moored in the centre of medieval Sandwich, Kent.
- Salmestone is very dog friendly, with dog life jackets provided on request!
- Please note that access to the barge is via a vertical ladder and a gangplank with rails. Extra care must be taken at low tide.
- Unfortunately, Salmestone is not wheelchair accessible.
- WiFi and linen are provided, along with kitchen essentials. Free parking is available nearby for two cars.
Features
Dog Friendly
Family Friendly
Facilities
Sleeps 6, master en-suite double bedroom, sofa bed, bunk bed, bedding & towels provided, family shower room, bathroom amenities, hairdryer, hangers, kitchen, oven, stove, fridge, microwave, coffee maker, kitchen equipment, condiments, central heating, iron, flat screen TV, DVD player, Wi-Fi, desk/table, children’s books & toys, outdoor deck, 2 allocated parking spaces.
Local activities
Town trails, walks, cycling, sandy beach, swimming, cycling, Viking coastal trail, Turner Contemporary gallery, museums, Dreamland amusement park, arcades, shopping, mini-golf.
More information
While away some time seal-spotting on the river, or head into Sandwich for a time-travelling stroll through medieval Britain. The unique town is packed with stunning listed buildings, and you’ll find it bursting with vibrant year-round events, independent shops and tempting coffee stops. Take an historic walking tour, or if you’re at a loss for local ideas, Archie will be more than happy to help out with suggestions.
(You might also guess from the name ‘Sandwich’ that you’re in foodie heaven, with plenty of restaurants and cafés nearby, all offering tasty local produce).
Indulge to your hearts’ content, safe in the knowledge that at the end of the day Salmestone will be awaiting your return, her twinkling fairy lights welcoming you back on board.
Things to note
Luggage storage facilities are available. Dogs are permitted to stay upon prior arrangement. Please note that the boat is not wheelchair accessible. Minimum booking 1 night Sunday to Thursday.
Prices from £170 a night includes a professional clean (low season mid week price)
Weekend pricing (low season) £370 for 2 nights
High season £270 a night Sunday to Thursday
High season £470 for 2 nights
Where you'll be staying
Sandwich, Kent
What the guests of Salmestone Dutch Barge say
“Would definitely recommend a long weekend on this Dutch barge! We were 6 adults (debatable at times ;)…) who spent 2 nights on this lovely barge in Sandwich, Kent, to celebrate my husbands 40th birthday! Archie, our Host, was very friendly and extremely helpful from the start of us booking the weekend celebration to the very end when we checked out! Archie shared info, photos and drone footage! Great communication and always ready to assist with any questions or issues.
The barge is fully kitted out, warm, cosy and great for family and friends alike! Has loads of board games to keep you busy and entertained! A tv with Netflix and some dvds on the side.
The first night we ate at Luigis, a local Italian restaurant and the food was great and the staff very friendly! Loads of local pubs but we didn’t try any as we went for a drive and walk taking in some of the natural Kent seaside and country side.
If you looking for a unusual different weekend break, this Dutch barge is the way to go.
Can imagine it being awesome in Summer, being able to bbq onboard, we weren’t really that lucky as the weather wasn’t on our side most of the weekend, very windy and wet.
Would definitely book again! Would love to take my Dad, think he would love it!”
