North Foreland Road, Broadstairs, Kent

Rising at one of the highest points in Thanet, this historic coastal home was built circa 1906 as one of the first residences on the North Foreland Estate. Originally the North Foreland Tea House, later the Dutch Tea House, it was a celebrated seaside stop where guests, including Winston Churchill and Peter Cushing, enjoyed refreshments on its sea-facing terraces. Following a meticulous restoration, this property has been transformed into a refined contemporary home. Passing through the entrance gate, a pebbled approach and wildlife pond lead to the property, whose interior reveals solid oak floors, generous proportions and exceptional craftsmanship. The drawing room with multi-fuel burner flows through folding panelled doors into the dining room, study and the light-filled orangery overlooking the secluded sunken garden. The contemporary kitchen features granite worktops, bespoke cabinetry and limestone flooring, with adjoining utility room and a family room opening to a courtyard and external wet room, ideal after beach days. Upstairs, a spacious landing leads to a modern family bathroom and three double bedrooms, two opening onto a vast wraparound balcony. The principal suite includes a fireplace, luxurious en suite with slipper bath and wet room, and a fitted dressing room. The top floor offers two further bedrooms, another bathroom and a spectacular panoramic sitting room with windows on three sides, a wood-burning stove and discreet kitchenette, perfect for sunrise-to-sunset views across the sea, golf course and lighthouse. Outside, electric gates provide parking for four cars and access to the garage, which offers potential for conversion into an annexe or pool house (subject to planning). The private rear garden features lawns, a large dining terrace, raised beds and a substantial summer house. The property also holds planning permission for a three-storey, four-bed detached dwelling in place of the existing garage (ref: F/TH/24/0563), with scope to re-apply for a smaller annexe if preferred.

What the Owner says:

When we first found this house in 2018, it was love at first sight, and it has since been the setting for countless happy memories. We’ve hosted garden parties on the lawns, long candlelit dinners, and welcomed friends and family who always remark on its atmosphere. The house has an undeniably uplifting spirit, perhaps carried over from its past as a social retreat and holiday haven. The views have been a constant joy, pastel sunrises, blazing sunsets and, on certain nights, the moon shimmering across the sea, a sight that never loses its magic. As part of the North Foreland Estate, we’ve treasured our access to the private beach, reached by steps and a padlocked tunnel carved through the cliffs — the very tunnel that inspired John Buchan’s The 39 Steps. It feels like a secret world where we’ve enjoyed morning swims, evening picnics and the rare pleasure of having the coastline almost to ourselves. Life here has been wonderful in every season. With country walks, the North Foreland golf course, and the sandy bays of Joss and Stone nearby, it’s ideal for anyone who loves the outdoors. Broadstairs is full of independent shops, charming beaches, lively bars and restaurants, a cinema and annual events like Folk Week, the Dickens Festival and the Food Fair. Excellent schools and the high-speed train to London (under 90 minutes) have made living here both easy and connected. We have adored our time in this home, but it feels right to downsize.