We love...The Lighthouse in Bishopstone, Kent

We’d love to be the lighthouse keeper at this adorable mint-green hideaway. Snoozing on the cliffs of the tranquil seaside town of Herne Bay, The Lighthouse has a balcony that stretches around the octagon tower so you can sit down to tea, coffee or whatever takes your fancy and gaze out to the glittering sea.

If you manage to pull yourself away from the pretty coastal views, the beach is a hop, skip and a jump away via a cliff path. If it’s too chilly for a paddle then there’s always your very own heated swimming pool to splash around in, so don’t forget your goggles!

If you want to stretch your legs even further, the swish seaside town of Whitstable is just a few miles away. Head to the pebbled beach – a haven for those wanting a cool seaside getaway – and indulge in  freshly-caught oysters while watching the sun dissolve into the north Medway coast.

And if you prefer shopping to seafood, shuffle through various decades of fashion at Vintage-on-Sea. Housed in the small undercover yard of an old beach hut, you’ll hear the crunch of pebbles under your feet and crashing waves as you hunt for retro treasures. 

To search for more seaside hideaways visit cottages4you and for more ideas on how to get the most out of England's seaside towns have a look at our Beaches and coastline guide.

Blogger: Katie Rowe, Copywriter

London born. Hooked on grand architecture, the Kent coast, music festivals, flea markets, macaroons, roaming the V&A and cats.