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  • The Artists House by The Sea - Kent & Sussex - 1056164 - photo 1
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The Artists House by The Sea

(Ref. 1056164)

Herne Bay, Kent Show on map

4.7

Sykes rating

  • 5 Guests

  • 2 Bedrooms

  • 2 Bathrooms

  • Pets Yes

Features

  • Ground floor accommodation
  • Ground floor bedroom
  • Open fire
  • Garden / Patio
  • Pub/shop < 1 mile
  • Washing machine
  • Dishwasher
  • Seaside
  • Broadband / WiFi

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing
Cleanliness
Comfort
Facilities and Maintenance
  • All reviews
  • house (23)
  • sea (18)
  • lovely (18)
  • location (12)
  • table (11)
  • quirky (11)

37 Customer Reviews

  • "The couch was much too low for us to get back up so we sat at the table."

    This is something we should have looked at ourselves, so this is not a complaint but we feel we should share this experience. Thanks again dear Rachael for staying in this extraordinary house in this wonderful location.

    Dear Robert, I’m so sorry the sofa was too low for you.I had not considered its height when purchasing, it’s a regular Loaf sofa, but now you mention it, it is quite low. When the time comes to buy new furniture I will take your comment into consideration. Thank you for bringing it to my attention. Rachael Property Owner

    Reviewed by Robert F.Dec 2023

  • "Wonderfully unusual / quirky property but not at the expense of comfort."

    We grew to enjoy underfloor heating and mezzanines. The kitchen was fully equipped, information on how everything works clearly printed in the book of words, the location was ideal for sea views, there were full length mirrors!!! and although storm Ciaran tried but failed to keep us in doors, coming in after a wet and windy walk on the beach was wonderfully warm on your feet. The sea is a 5/6 min walk down a steep road and easily reached if you have the stamina to climb back up again. I’m in my 60’s and had no problem but it maybe an issue if mobility isn’t great. We had a lovely week (I came with my daughter) and were ideally located visiting family and getting to old haunts in Canterbury, Minnis bay and Margate.

    Reviewed by KateOct 2023

  • "We wanted somewhere different, somewhere quirky and the Artisit House did not disappoint, it ticked all the boxes, a great holiday for us."

    Reviewed by PaulOct 2023

  • "What a wonderful house!"

    Had the most beautiful week staying here, so quirky and unique! The home has everything you need and super close to have a walk down to the beach. Watching the sunsets from the balcony each evening was picture perfect. Rachael the owner was super lovely and helpful. I had the best time and I’m sure I shall return again soon!

    Reviewed by AmeliaSep 2023

  • "A magical house by the sea."

    Such a treat to find it available. We had a lovely week with our older teenagers and cockapoo who all loved being right by the sea in such a well designed, creative house.

    Reviewed by NatashaAug 2023

  • "Lovely, quirky stylish house."

    We loved: the light and airy space, the super comfortable beds, the sea views. Rachael and Tara were accessible, helpful & friendly. Just to be aware (not a bad thing!) that the front of the house is not enclosed & is on a road - a quietish one - but beware with dogs & littluns!

    Reviewed by MargotJun 2023

  • "We enjoyed staying in your lovely home the view was fantastic and lovely walks collecting driftwood aIong the beach and lovely artwork in your home sunsets where amazing fishing was good to thank you again for wonderful holiday Dixie Caroline ."

    Reviewed by MichaelMay 2023

  • "Thank you for a lovely stay in a uniquely created house and gardens, in a peaceful beautiful setting."

    We appreciated so much it would be impossible to list! Thanks so much Rachel and Tara.

    Reviewed by SueApr 2023

  • "A fabulous place to stay, everything you could wish for- our only disappointment was we didn’t book for longer!"

    !!

    Reviewed by TheresaMar 2023

  • "A beautifully appointed house in a very convenient location to explore all the Kentish sights we had planned."

    Although outside a cold wind was blowing throughout the week, the house remained welcomingly warm, especially with the occasional use of the wood-burning stove. This was very easy to manipulate and fired up easily. The pin-ball machine was a fun inclusion and provided an on-going competitive tournament between my husband and me. A thoroughly enjoyable and busy week visiting Canterbury; Sissinghurst; Batemans'; Faversham; Whitstable; Reculver and Herne Bay.

    Reviewed by PhilipMar 2023

  • "Wonderfully quirky house with amazing sea views."

    In one of the coldest weeks of January we were concerned that the house would be chilly, but the underfloor heating was excellent, and when combined with the huge woodburning stove (loads of logs supplied) we were warm and cosy. A couple of folding chairs in the upstairs bedroom would be useful for taking in the stunning views. Unfortunately, the pinball machine was away for repair which was disappointing, as we were looking forward to it. Would definitely recommend the house and location.

    Reviewed by SandraJan 2023

  • "Wow! What a wonderful house, filled with pockets of joy that just made you smile."

    This house really ticked every box imaginable. The more you looked the more you saw the more it made you smile. Thank you.

    Reviewed by SonyaDec 2022

  • "Excellent and quirky home."

    Wonderful views overlooking the sea. Short walk to the seafront. Quite location. Owner, Rachel, made us feel welcome. The pinball machine is fun. Now thinking of buying one!

    Reviewed by StevenOct 2022

  • "This property was everything we could wish for."

    From the spectacular seaviews to the charming, relaxing ambiance and quirky design features. We loved it!

    Reviewed by PamelaSep 2022

  • "Lovely quirky cottage in ideal location."

    Well equipped and it was great to wake up to see the sea in the morning.

    Reviewed by ElaineSep 2022

  • "The Artist’s Cottage is in a fabulous position, overlooking the sea."

    It is very well equipped and comfortably furnished. It also has a lovely decked area at the back and a small, but very pretty garden. It is a short walk down to the promenade and beach, but anyone with mobility problems, should be aware that there is quite a steep climb back up. My only minor complaint would be that we had to park the car in front of the cottage, which does detract from the amazing views from the downstairs areas. We had a lovely week here and this part of the Kent coastline is superb.

    I'm so glad you enjoyed it. I entirely understand about the parking. There is a carpark at the end of the road, 100m away which is free between October and April. In peak season there is a daily fee of about £3 I think. Or you could lie in bed longer to enjoy the view from upstairs... Property Owner

    Reviewed by DonnaSep 2022

  • "A restorative space we enjoyed staying in."

    Thank you!

    Reviewed by JessicaAug 2022

  • "We had a wonderful stay."

    The house is full of character and lovely spaces to spend time in especially the garden and bedroom balcony. Loved the variety of art works and house design as a whole. The location was perfectly peaceful. A fantastic place for just sitting and reading. We would be very happy to return sometime. Thanks.

    Reviewed by LukeAug 2022

  • "We always travel optimistically, but had underestimated what a superb environment The Artist's House would prove."

    From the moment you turn in to the quiet coastal road on which the house sits, you relax and know you've reached somewhere you want to be. The bi-folds that run right across the front of the house mean the huge sea and sunset views are with you constantly. Upstairs, you can sit up in bed or on the balcony with a morning coffee and enjoy the same simply awesome view some more. Access to the coastal paths (that run west to Tankerton and Whistable) is via either steps or an easy roadway and takes no more than a couple of minutes; once down to the sea wall, of course, the walking is flat and easy. East to Reculver, Minnis Bay and beyond, is lovely and easy walking, too. The House is well equipped, contains lots of interest, has a pleasant private patio and Mediterranean-style garden at the back. Bottom line: would we return? Too right!

    Reviewed by SimonJul 2022

  • "Imaginative, creative, inspiring."

    I think that sums it up. This home is such a special space, so thoughtfully designed and environmentally friendly. There's the artwork and all the owner's beautifully curated and displayed collections. The garden is equally awesome. When you lie in bed looking out to sea, the top of the glass balustrade sits on the horizon. The location is also wonderful as you can walk into Herne Bay or enjoy a proper nature walk away from the crowds if you head in the opposite direction, plus you're within easy reach of many other interesting places. There's the exhilaration of swimming in the sea in May. Just make sure you swim within 3hrs of high tide and avoid the groynes. Would love to stay again...

    Reviewed by LeslieMay 2022

  • "We had a lovely stay and it’s is certainly a very quirky house, which we loved."

    A couple of things, the advert suggests it’s close to the sea, which it is, but getting down to beach level is a challenge for a lot of elderly people, like my 85 yeah old mother. The reason we booked it was that it suggested it was virtually on the beach and less walking for my mother to be at the sea front. Also elderly people do struggle to get up the stairs, my mother for one. Also a second hand rail would be a benefit for elderly people to get up the stairs. But as I said we enjoyed the stay. Loved the pinball machine.

    Reviewed by StuartMay 2022

  • "Excellent position, beautiful house and garden."

    Everything you could wish for. Would have liked a door on the upstairs shower room, otherwise perfect!

    Reviewed by HelenMay 2022

  • "Amazing place to stay just opposite the sea , lots of lovely walks and plenty to ..."

    Amazing place to stay just opposite the sea , lots of lovely walks and plenty to do in the area Will definitely book this house again

    Reviewed by JulieApr 2022

  • "The Artist's House was beautiful."

    We loved our stay there. The house itself is beautiful, bright, spacious, peaceful, full of interesting objects and has amazing views over the sea. The garden at the back is also sunny and quiet. It is also perfectly situated for walks, bike rides and trips to Herne Bay, Whitstable, Margate, Ramsgate etc..We had my mum with us who has trouble getting about but she and I managed a round walk from the house along the seafront every morning and a walk from nearby Reculver Towers to Minnis Bay one day, as well as a 20 minute trip by train to Broadstairs.

    Reviewed by KateApr 2022

  • "Thank you for sharing this amazing space."

    Location great with walks via the cliffs or the beach to Reculver one way or Herne bay the other. No tv, but WiFi good enough to provide entertainment on the dark winter evenings, and pinball machine good fun. Kitchen reasonably equipped and plenty of fridge / freezer space. Lovely to relax and enjoy the sea view.

    Reviewed by JonathanJan 2022

  • "Lovely house in a great location."

    Suited us down to the ground. Fantastic wood burner along with the heated flooring kept us nice and toastie. We really enjoyed cycling and walks along the Viking Way visiting Whitstable, Herne Bay, Margate and Broadstairs.

    Reviewed by MartinJan 2022

  • "SIMPLY A Beautiful home with 'Jarmanesque' garden and one of the quirkiest bathrooms I've ever been in!"

    We had a great New Year Anniversary there and the setting is fantastic.

    Reviewed by IanDec 2021

  • "The property was exceptionally clean to a very high standard and very aseathically pleasing."

    But unfortunately I had to leave 7 nights into my holiday and i was due to stay for 28 nights over the xmas period. Because I hadn't experienced underfloor heating before I didn't want to pre judge on something I had no experience of . So I took a chance but unfortunately for me personally the underfloor heating wasnt warm enough for me. I have fibromyalgia and suffer chronic pain and being warm is extremely important to me otherwise my condition can get worse . I did purchase additional logs but there were already plenty at the property for the log burner but didnt realise I would have to do a fire every day to stay warm. I was very unwell with a pain flare up and setting up a fire whilst in this condition is very tough. I would highly recommend this property for people who have good health and dont require a high level of heat but not so much for anyone with health conditions. Tara the housekeeper went out of her way to help me even collecting shells for me to take home from the beach. Also the skyes advertising is a bit misleading because it says 200 metres from the sea I really only booked it for this reason so I knew I could walk to the beach with my health condition. But I found out after I had booked it there is a big hill to walk down which I'm not mobile enough to walk those distances. I think because the house is so perfect I felt uncomfortable worried in case I would mark something. Which inevitably I did a piece of ash flew out the fire and dropped on the floor. Because the log burner is so big it's like opening an oven door and I burnt myself. I think it needs a proper fire guard around it as a safety measure especially if there are small children in the property. When I arrived there wasnt a fire set poker but that was rectified just before I left which I very much appreciated. A blind was purchased for the bathroom but arrived just before I was going so I had to hang towels up against the window for privacy. It's a real shame I had to leave so early but I had to put my health needs first . The house is very unique and special but I think when you are catering for the public we are all different and have specific needs that maybe different to other people and the overall perspective of seeing it through the lens of different guests with different needs could perhaps be taken into consideration so the house could perhaps reach a variety of different guests with different needs . But I totally understand if the demographic is for healthy guests with no additional needs or disabilities. Ms Hogg

    Thanks for your feedback. We appreciate that on this occasion the property did not meet your particular health needs. The owner can confirm that the underfloor heating for living areas are at 22 degrees and in the downstairs bathroom it is 24 degrees. Thank you for acknowledging that they also supply fuel for the logburner for guests' entire stay. Thank you for your comments about the walk to the beach, and this will be amended to reflect 300 metres distance down the wide path. Property Owner

    Reviewed by PhoenixDec 2021

  • "Lovely house and a nice 5night break … my only criticism was the lack of ..."

    Lovely house and a nice 5night break … my only criticism was the lack of privacy in the bathroom with nothing up at the clear glass door and window with a visible pathway to whoever lives in the garden …

    I'm sorry you felt there was a lack of privacy, no one lives in the garden it is the Artist Studio, but the Artist is out of the country. However as this has been a comment from more than one guest, an 'etched glass' plastic film has been added to the window and door, which gives more sense of privacy. Thank you for your feed back. Property Owner

    Reviewed by TraceyNov 2021

  • "Lively quirky home comfortable and ideally located to explore the area"

    Reviewed by JaneOct 2021

  • "The house was stunning, we felt as if we were staying in the home of a generous artisic friend."

    The situation was ideal for us; quiet, overlooking the sea at the front with a beautiful secluded garden at the back. And the dog loved it with beach walks within minutes and lots of new doggy friends made.

    Reviewed by AnnetteOct 2021

  • "We loved the house and its unusual features, the owner has furnished it to a very high standard, plenty of space and light."

    The location is wonderful, lovely sea views and easy access to the beach. Our only concern was the stairs to first floor, quite steep and not enough handrails for elderly people. It is good that there is a ground floor bedroom and bathroom, but we needed both bedrooms.

    Reviewed by YvonneOct 2021

  • "Lovely house with fantastic views of the sea."

    The house was clean and comfortable and perfectly located with lovely walks. Bedding, towels and beds spotless and comfortable. The area was quiet and Al and Tara were great with communication.

    Reviewed by GiovanniSep 2021

  • "The house is incredible, so cleverly designed with such a lovely vibe and the views are fabulous."

    It’s not often you stay in a property that you prefer to your home. Being so close to a dog friendly beach was brilliant. The kids found sharks teeth, we had a beach fire and walked to reculver and Herne bay and got the train to Whitstable. A great spot on the Kent coast.

    Reviewed by NikkiAug 2021

  • "It was uncomfortable having someone living in the garden at such close proximity to the house."

    Did not feel we could use the garden as we may have done. However, the location was fabulous!9

    Many thanks for your feedback, we can reassure guests that the building in question is an artist's studio and is only occasionally used and fencing has now also been put up by the owner so that guests feel more private and the garden feels more intimate. The only other visible hut is a beach hut which is occasionally used by the artist but this is also clearly separated from the property by a fence. Property Owner

    Reviewed by JoJul 2021

  • "Loved the quirky cottage and views and position."

    V well thought through. The housekeeper was excellent if we needed anything and all in all a great stay! Skyes were also soooo helpful during the pandemic.

    Reviewed by annaJul 2021

  • "The nature park next door is great for walks."

    Had an eccelent day trip to Margate Turner Contemporary.

    Reviewed by AnneJun 2021

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Summary

  • Two bedrooms: 1 x double with balcony, 1 x ground-floor double
  • Ground-floor bathroom with hidden bath, separate walk-in shower, basin and WC
  • Wet room with walk-in shower, basin and WC
  • Open-plan living space with kitchen, dining area and sitting area with woodburning stove
  • Utility room
  • Snug with sofa bed
  • Dressing room
  • Gas underfloor heating with woodburning stove
  • Electric double oven and gas hob, microwave, fridge/freezer also a fridge with ice box, washing machine, dishwasher, WiFi
  • Fuel and power inc. in rent
  • Bed linen, towels and tea towels inc. in rent
  • Roadside parking available for two cars
  • Enclosed back garden with decking and patio featuring outdoor seating
  • Front garden with outdoor seating
  • Balcony with outdoor seating
  • One well-behaved pet welcome
  • Sorry, no smoking
  • Shop 0.5 miles, pub 0.7 miles
  • Note: Dogs must be kept off the furniture at all times
  • Note: Due to the style of flooring shoes are not permitted inside the house
  • Please note: There is no TV at the property
  • Please note, the photos of the property were taken before becoming a holiday let, the garden is now enclosed and private.

The property

Designed by the artist herself and featured in Coast Magazine, The Guardian online and The Observer Magazine, the Artist’s House by The Sea over looks the shore in a quiet spot between the Victorian seaside town of Herne Bay and the site of the ancient Roman fort of Reculver, with expansive views of the North Sea, it sits 300 meters from the exciting stretch of coastline easily accessed by a wide winding path, loved by walkers, cyclists, wild swimmers and explorers searching for ammonites or shark’s teeth fossils.

This unique home is a creative and peaceful space filled with original artwork and mid-century modern furnishings, which creates a calm environment in which to relax and unwind, the double height open plan living area, with its well appointed kitchen makes cooking and entertaining with friends and family a pleasure, the bi-fold doors open on to a sunny deck, and the tranquil garden is filled with greenery and interesting objects from the seaside.

The ground floor bathroom opens onto a private garden area and the hidden bath is perfect for a long relaxing soaks, the snug is a cosy room for reading or sea gazing and makes a third sleeping space with a comfortable fold out sofa bed, also on the ground floor is an easily accessed double bedroom with ample storage providing a wonderful space especially for those who might have limited mobility.

For guests with limited mobility, the downstairs bathroom might be a challenge.

The walk in shower has a 25cm border of pebbles around the edge which needs to be stepped over.

The toilet is boxed in (as seen in the pictures) and there are no hand rails in the bathroom or anywhere in the house, other than the bannisters on the stairs.

The threasholds of the doors to the gardens front and back are raised, which could present problems for some, so although the ground floor has enough space for a wheel chair it was not designed specifically for wheelchair users or for those with severely impaired mobility. The house has uninterrupted views of the sea from its elevated position atop a steep grassy slope.

Access to the pebble beach is down a wide, concrete path and although not overly steep, it is not really suitable for wheel chairs as it would be challenging to push them back up.

However It is regularly used by people in motorised disability scooters.

The stunning first floor bedroom has its own balcony and uninterrupted views of the sea which can be enjoyed while lying in bed, the stylish wet room and gorgeous dressing room offer a lovely space to prepare for the day ahead.

In the evening enjoy massive skies and sunsets over the sea from the front deck and when darkness falls, cosy up in front of the wood burning stove, this is a no shoes house which has underfloor heating throughout so always feels warm under foot.

The Artists House offers all the comforts and practicalities of home but with the natural peace and beauty of coastal living.

Settled into the outskirts of the Victorian seaside town of Herne Bay, this delightful abode is ideally situated for visiting the local beach, trying out local seaside walks, and searching for fascinating fossils.

The local area is a haven for avid walkers, cyclists, and swimmers, and there is also an intriguing Roman fort, as well as a variety of a cafés, pubs, restaurants, and a convenience store for all of your holiday essentials.

Options include The Bouncing Barrel, The Cosy Cat Café, and the Divers Arms.

Visit Margate for its pretty beach, Dreamland Margate amusement park, or spend a day at Canterbury, checking out the incredible cathedral, gardens, museums, and independent shops.

Explore the scenery further with a stroll through the picturesque scenery of the Kent Downs AONB, ideal for walking and bird watching. Add a touch of luxury to your escape to the Kent coast with a stay at The Artists House by The Sea.

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About the location

HERNE BAY

Whitstable 5 miles; Canterbury 7 miles; Broadstairs 13 miles; Dover 23 miles.

Herne Bay has been a popular holiday destination for many years. With its award-winning shingle beach and restored Victorian memorial gardens, this offers families the perfect, relaxing holiday location. Herne Bay's seafront is home to the world's first freestanding purpose-built Clock Tower, built in 1837 which looks down onto the well-kept promenade. As expected when visiting an English seaside town, there are many eateries serving everything from traditional fish and chips to exotic delicacies, and of course, no seaside town is complete without an ice cream parlour and Herne Bay has two! The historic city of Canterbury is only 7 miles away, with its famous cathedral and historic past, offering theatres, museums and art galleries as well as shops, restaurants, and trips along the river. For a day of cobbled streets and browsing around quaint little shops, then make for Whitstable, famous for its Oyster festival and a popular harbour town at any time of year. Herne Bay is ideally situated for exploring this part of the Kent coast.