Five Coastal Cottages That Will Take Your Breath Away

As an island nation we’re blessed with hundreds of miles of wonderful coastline, from the rugged shores of Cornwall to the long swathes of golden sand along the Norfolk coast. We’ve been holidaying at the seaside for centuries, and in that time thousands of coastal cottages have opened their doors to holiday-makers. Some are good, some are bad, but only a few are truly special. We’ve picked five coastal cottages that will take your breath away.

When an architect is designing his own home, you know it’s going to be something special, and that’s certainly the case with The Perch in Southwold, Suffolk. Built in 2012, just metres from the beach, this coastal cottage is a contemporary two storey building that has been awarded an LABC Building Excellence Award for its outstanding construction. The wood panelled exterior is sympathetic with its surroundings, while inside a thoroughly modern interior awaits you, with high quality fittings and bold décor. Upstairs you’re greeted with panoramic views across the sea at the front, while from the rear you can see across the pretty town of Southwold as well as the nearby marshes and River Blyth.

With its stylish interior and glass frontage, you’d be hard pressed to tell that the Wee Retreat in Sheringham was once a Victorian toilet block! It’s one of the most unusual coastal cottages you’ll stay in: after being completely renovated by a local builder, this three storey holiday home truly stands alone, both in location and architecture. It’s actually on Sheringham prom, and you couldn’t get closer to the sea without getting sand in your shoes. The large glass front takes full advantage of its seafront prominence, allowing you to take in the magnificent view at all times. A spiral staircase threads through the building, down to the lower ground floor where the second bedroom and shower room lie, and up to the first floor and the main bedroom where large French doors give you access to your private veranda.

Set in the exclusive Hannafore area of Looe in Cornwall, Reflections is a luxurious seafront property that is ideal for large groups. The detached three storey coastal cottage is tastefully decorated throughout, and has four bedrooms (three of which have sea views), two bathrooms, a large lounge/diner, plus games room and Mediterranean style courtyard at the back for eating al fresco. The sun deck at the front of the property allows you to enjoy uninterrupted sea views, which includes the mound of St George’s Island rising from the English Channel.

Seadrift in Camber, Sussex, is one of the most unique coastal cottages you’ll see. Designed to look as if it’s standing on stilts, three-quarters of the building is raised off the ground. This provides room underneath for a shaded eating area, hammock and outdoor shower, perfect for washing the sand off after you’ve spent a fun day on the award-winning beach just a few metres away. Inside the building are wooden floors and white walls, giving it a truly coastal feel.  The top floor is a large open space with excellent sea views, while underneath are the three bedrooms, enabling it to sleep six people.

With the Atlantic Ocean to the front and the North Devon Coast AONB behind, The White House in Croyde, Devon, is in one of the most enviable places in Britain. The five bedrooms allow up to ten people to enjoy it at the same time, making it an ideal destination for large families or groups. You access the period house along a private lane, giving you excellent privacy, peace and quiet. Inside the house is an eclectic but stylish mix of furnishings, and outside is a large stepped back garden with a slide and climbing frame to entertain the children while you marvel at the uninterrupted sea views.