If you and your family have been dreaming of a coastal retreat, away from the stresses of home-schooling and Zoom calls, you’re not alone. This summer is all about recapturing lost family time, reconnecting with loved ones, and above all, enjoying a night away from the same four walls.
Allow us to introduce you to the family-run Keepers Cottages, a local Kent company with more than 90 cottages across our beautiful county. Founded by local Camilla Shipton in 2013, Keepers Cottages are one of our go-tos for family getaways, with each of their cottages featuring the personal touches, local knowledge and gorgeous design that makes for a relaxing break.
Ready to start making those memories this summer? Allow us and our friends at Keepers Cottages to inspire you with some of our favourite family-friendly Kent cottages.
Capstan Row
A family weekend break by the sea is awaiting at this charming and beautifully restored gem in Deal. With two bedrooms, and even a sofa bed, it’s the perfect spot for a getaway with your nearest and dearest, including your four-legged friend. And when we say, it’s near the sea, we mean it! Expect to hear the sound of the waves from your bed and enjoy strolling along the coast towards nearby Sandwich Bay and Kingsdown. Plus, with the likes of Walmer Castle just a pebble’s throw away, you can enjoy exploring beautiful gardens and walking in the footsteps of Wellington himself.
Upper Strand Street
A medieval marvel, renowned for its golf links and rich history, Sandwich is the perfect base for your explorations in Kent. Bring along the family (four paws and all) and stay at this historic hidden home in the heart of Sandwich, where two reception rooms, full kitchen and two bedrooms make the perfect base for a week of reconnecting. With a BBQ and beautiful south-facing garden to enjoy, you’d be forgiven for not wanting to leave this suntrap, but the Sandwich Bay Bird Observatory, Richborough Roman Fort and seaside splendour of Margate, Broadstairs and Ramsgate are all just minutes away for fantastic family days out.
Belmont House
Sleeping eight people across four bedrooms, Belmont House in Deal is top of our list for a break with extended family later this year (perfect for grandparents who are eager to start spoiling those grandchildren again). Enclosed gardens will make a great playground for children and pups of all ages, while a BBQ and furniture on the large patio make for a sensational sunny spot to while away those lazy, hazy summer evenings as a family. If the weather turns, the games room or drawing room, complete with open fireplace to cosy up to, are perfect for breaking out the board games and having a round or two of cards. And if you can tear yourselves away from all of that, Deal itself is packed with independent shops, bars, galleries and cafes, not to mention a beautiful beach where you can enjoy ice creams and paddling.
Birdcage Cottage
Solid wood floors, winding staircases, a wood burning stove, original features…just reading the description of this house and we’re already in love. Step through the door and you’ll be treated to an experience that truly lives up to its name, with bird-themed art and objects throughout the house, and a colour palette to transport you to the pages of glossy magazines. While we could go on about the myriad of Insta-worthy locations throughout the house, we’ll let you discover them for yourself, but say that this three bedroom cottage is a fantastic getaway for families, with Deal High Street, the beach and pier just minutes away from the front door.
Bowden Lodge
Sleeping 12 people, with most of the rooms complete with en-suites The Lodge is the ultimate retreat for a group of friends or extended family (think cousins, aunties, grandparents and pooches). Resting less than half a mile away from the beach and near footpaths along the Downs, stay here and you’re in for some active days out, but with its very own pool (yes!) and expansive grounds too, there’s more than enough to keep the whole family busy at The Lodge. Luxurious bathrooms, a pool table, a pool, rolling gardens…trust us, this converted barn is the indulgent getaway you’ve been dreaming of.
11 Duke Street
The picture of a seaside escape, 11 Duke Street features soft blue and grey décor, comfy sofas, and a bright, airy kitchen with room for eight people. With two reception rooms, and even a snug on the lower ground floor where teenagers can retreat, this Deal favourite is great for a mini family reunion. Grab breakfast from one of Deal’s many independent cafes, hit the beach for a spot of sea air, or head up the road to experience vibrant Canterbury’s city centre with punting, museums and that world-famous cathedral to experience.
Captains Cottage
You’ll feel right at home as soon as you step through the door of Captains Cottage. Three double bedrooms, stripped floorboards and refreshing white and blue décor create a relaxing coastal break fit for a family who have been dreaming of sea views and sandcastles. Just a short walk up the road will take you to Deal station, where you can hop on the train and up the coast to marvellous Margate, or off to creative Folkestone with its Harbour Arm and sculpture trails through the town.
Have we piqued your interest? Take a look at Keepers Cottages' other beautiful spots for even more staycation inspiration.
