THE FRENCH HOUSE
But , let ’ s take it back to a time before the highstreet was swankily resurrected by art galleries , delicious delis and vintage interiors shops . It was the fact that Deal ’ s beach , of pebbles rather than sand , meant the town escaped Victorian development into a full-blown seaside resort of the ‘ bucket and spade ’ variety . Instead , the architecture , where quirky fishermen ’ s houses meet elegant Georgian townhouses , has altered very little in character since the 18th century and has thus retained an idyllic charm and is now a conservation area . Deal Seafront and Middle Street are the best locations for this historic architectural quirk to be admired , with the former being one of the most picturesque to be found anywhere on the southeast coast . The conservation area , sat away from the highstreet with its quiet alleyways , traditional cottages and houses , many of them colour-washed , is a delightful place to explore and stay . The French House , available through www . keeperscottages . co . uk , is a perfect example . Grade II listed and built in 1870 over three floors , it has three double bedrooms ( one en-suite ), two bathrooms , a double sitting room with wood burning stove and comfortable single sofa bed , large kitchen with dining area and a courtyard garden . The French House ’ s size makes it an ideal place for friends and family , while its central location makes it just right for exploring the town on foot and heading out for meals and drinks in the evening .
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