insideKENT Issue 172 - AUGUST 2026 | Page 76

KENTSTAYCATION
Boating Breaks cont...
BY THE SEA
Boasting over 350 miles of coastline, the chalk-stacked cliffs and clear waters of Kent’ s shores offer stays by the water that remind us to slow down and take in a slower pace of life if things start to feel a little overwhelming.
During the summer, shoreline stays are some of Kent’ s most popular getaways. Rightfully so, with vibrant seaside towns and a wealth of marine life to observe from the shores, you can make your way to St Margaret’ s Bay in Dover. Here, you will discover a sheltered shingle beach sitting beneath the iconic White Cliffs of Dover and, more importantly, Sea Purse( keeperscottages. co. uk), possessing quite possibly the best views of the English Channel across the south coast.
The accommodation holds an interesting history and was previously leased by Noel Coward, the English playwright and composer, in the 1950s. Alongside Ian Fleming, who leased the adjacent beach house, it is clear Fleming drew inspiration for his James Bond novels from this spectacular coastal location. Looking out across the English Channel, you can see how this view never gets old, with the sound of gentle waves and days spent soaking up the summer sun on the quiet shingle beach.
Inside, the house accommodates up to seven people, with a large kitchen and sitting room area alongside two king-size beds with sea views, balconies and rustic copper baths. There is also two double beds with balconies and one small double and single bed. The house also accommodates dogs, with direct access to the beach for morning swims and fossil hunting excursions.
CABÜ BY THE SEA
Heading along the coastline to Romney Marsh- one of Kent’ s most distinct landscapes- you will find St Mary’ s Bay in New Romney, where CABÜ by the Sea( holidays. cabu. co. uk) boasts a number of luxury cabins sitting on the water’ s edge. Ranging from one-bedroom cabins for couples to three-bedroom beach houses that are perfect for families and friends. The self-catering cabins have access to a number of on-site facilities, where you can relax by the seasonal pool or unwind in the nature spa with hot tubs, saunas and spa treatments.
Set on the sands of St Mary’ s Bay, the beach offers early morning swims and long coastal walks to Dymchurch Beach where you’ ll discover Dymchurch Amusement Park( dymchurch-amusements. co. uk). A traditional park with vintage amusements, the venue is perfect for a seaside day activity of competitive fun. Afterwards, head to Amarettos local ice cream parlour and pick up some fresh ice cream to be enjoyed on Dymchurch Beach.
After a day out, head back to the cabins and make your way to The Sitooterie, the on-site space for alfresco dining, with an outdoor kitchen offering barbecues and wood-fired pizzas. While the evening sets in on the beachfront, toast marshmallows surrounded by the quiet coastal landscape for a waterside staycation made to revitalise and restore your peace.
SEA PURSE
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