Cosy coastal retreat - 148 Middle Street

Tucked away in the heart of Deal's charming conservation area, The Old Smoke House is a characterful cottage, perfect for couples or small families looking to escape to the Kent coast. This centuries-old cottage is full of quirks and charm, with original features, painted floorboards and cosy corners that make it feel like a home away from home.

Downstairs is a living room with a cosy wood burner for chilly evenings, a pretty wallpaper dining area and a small but well-equipped kitchen for relaxed holiday cooking. French doors from the kitchen lead to the sunny and private rose-walled garden, perfect for morning coffee or a glass of wine after a day of exploring. On the first floor is a light and inviting twin bedroom and a family bathroom with a bath and overhead shower. On the second floor is the double bedroom, which has a lovely view over the rooftops and gardens of Middle Street and out to the sea beyond. There's also the option to have a sofa bed set up in the sitting room for teens or occasional guests. Your four legged friend is very welcome.

The location couldn't be better, just a minute's walk from Deal's pebble beach and promenade, where you can stroll along the seafront with old fishing boats or take in the views from the end of the pier. The town itself is full of independent shops, bars and restaurants. Browse the antiques at Mileage, pick up some gifts from Barkend, grab a fresh sourdough loaf from Arno & Co and vegetables from Merchant of Relish and enjoy dinner at The Blue Pelican, Frog & Scot or Victuals.

There's plenty to explore nearby too. Walk south along the coast to Kingsdown, past beach huts and pastel coloured seafront houses and Walmer Castle, a former home of the Queen Mother. Further afield, the mediaeval town of Sandwich offers quiet riverside walks and traditional pubs. Or hop on a train to Canterbury to visit the famous Cathedral. If you are looking for a truly British seaside day out, Broadstairs is just a short drive away with its sandy beaches and ice cream parlours. The trendy town of Margate is also nearby, home to the Turner Contemporary and the retro amusement park Dreamland.