The Old Coastguard Lookout | House in St Margaret's Bay

Perched high above the White Cliffs of Dover with uninterrupted views across the English Channel to France, The Old Coastguard Lookout is one of the most remarkable coastal stays in Britain. Occupying the closest point in England to mainland Europe, this historic clifftop retreat sits within National Trust land on Kent's iconic coastline. On a clear day, you'll even be able to see France. Today, The Old Coastguard Lookout offers a truly memorable coastal escape with breathtaking scenery, fascinating history and direct access to some of the country's finest coastal walking routes. The property is made up of two adjoining accommodations: Pip's Lookout, the main house, and Little Nest, a self-contained annexe. These can be booked together as The Old Coastguard Lookout, or independently. Together they provide flexible accommodation for families, groups of friends and multi-generational stays. Pip's Lookout is arranged across two floors. Upstairs, the light-filled sitting room opens onto a balcony with outdoor seating and a dining table positioned to make the most of the spectacular sea views. Whether you're enjoying a morning coffee as ferries glide across the Channel or an evening drink as the sun sets over the water, it's a setting that's hard to forget. Inside, pine-panelled ceilings, plantation shutters, coastal artwork and a wood-burning stove create a warm and welcoming atmosphere throughout the year. Also on the upper floor are two comfortable bedrooms and a family bathroom, while a compact kitchen can be found on the ground floor below with everything you'll need for holiday cooking. Adjacent to the main house, Little Nest provides additional accommodation with its own king-size bedroom, kitchenette and shower room. Ideal for grandparents, teenagers, friends travelling together or couples seeking extra privacy, it offers the flexibility to enjoy time together while maintaining your own space. Outside, a garden area provides a peaceful spot to relax, with glimpses of the historic wartime tunnels hidden beneath the cliffs. Step beyond the gate and you'll find yourself directly connected to some of England's most spectacular scenery. The King Charles III England Coast Path and Saxon Shore Way pass nearby, while the White Cliffs, South Foreland Lighthouse and secluded bays are all within easy reach. The surrounding landscape is every bit as memorable as the property itself. Peregrine falcons soar overhead, seals can often be spotted in the waters below, and wildflowers blanket the chalk grasslands throughout spring and summer. In winter, cosy fires and dramatic seas create the ultimate cosy coastal retreat; in summer, long evenings on the balcony feel almost Mediterranean. Originally constructed in the 1920s as a working coastguard station overlooking one of the busiest shipping lanes in the world, it later played a role in Britain's wartime history, becoming home to pioneering radar technology during the Second World War. Sir Winston Churchill and Dame Vera Lynn are both associated with the site, while the surrounding coastline famously inspired Charles Dickens. Later, the building became the much loved Bluebird Café, once named by The Sunday Times Travel as one of Britain's most beautiful places for coffee. Today, guests can wake to the same unforgettable views, enjoying a unique stay where history, nature and spectacular scenery come together. Rare, historic and impossibly positioned above the sea, The Old Coastguard Lookout is far more than a holiday home, it is one of England's most extraordinary coastal escapes.
Ground Floor
Kitchen
Well equipped kitchen with an oven, electric hob, microwave, fridge/freezer, dishwasher and ample cooking equipment and crockery.
Utility
With a washing machine and dryer, coat hooks, shoe box, hoover and mop.
First Floor
Sitting Room
Comfortable sitting room with sofa, armchair, Smart TV, speaker, side tables and working log burner. At one end there is an extendable table and chairs for 4 people. The sofa bed can be used for an extra guest (teen or child) on request.
Bedroom (Bunk beds)
Sleeps 2 - with bunk beds, side table, light, wardrobe with travel cot, hangers and books and toys. The top bunk is only suitable for children under 16 years of age. There is the option to use the sofa bed if children prefer not to sleep on the top bunk. Sea views.
5 steps lead to;
Bedroom (King size)
Sleeps 2 - with king size bed, built in wardrobe with hangers, shelves and ironing board, full length mirror, hot water bottles, mini hair dryer, coffee machine, TV and chest of drawers. Panoramic sea views.
Balcony
Balcony with panoramic sea views, round table and 6 chairs, outdoor light.
Shower Room
Bathroom with shower with rainfall head and handheld attachment, basin, heated towel rail and WC.
Annexe (Little Nest)
Kitchenette
Well equipped with a microwave, fridge with freezer compartment, cafetiere, sink and crockery for two.
Bedroom
Sleeps 2 - with a King size bed, side tables, lamps, privacy and blackout curtains, cushions, blankets.
Dining Area
Table and chairs for two.
Outside
Garden
Wraparound garden with outdoor seating areas and lawn. Please note that if Little Bird (next door) is occupied, the garden will be shared. There are outdoor lights.
Parking
Private parking available next to the property.
Things you need to know
Check-in is from 4pm and check-out is by 10am.
Sleeps 6-7 guests across 3 bedrooms. There is an option to use the sofa bed in the living room, please get in touch with Keepers Cottages to request this.
Bed linen and towels are provided, plus blankets for the beach.
Please note that the top bunk bed must only be used by children over the age of 5 years, at your own risk. It is not suitable for anyone over the age of 16 years.
Wi-Fi throughout the property.
A starter pack of sundries is provided to get you started for your self catering holiday, such as toilet rolls, washing up liquid, cloths and sponges.
There are ring doorbells and exterior cameras on the property for security purposes.
Dog friendly - strictly one small, non allergic house trained dog. Please note that they cannot be left unattended at any time.
House Rules
We would respectfully ask that the following house rules are adhered to, to avoid any damages. Should any damages arise please note charges may apply as per your terms and conditions.
Smoking and vaping are not permitted in the property at any time.
Please note for insurance purposes the number of guests must not exceed the total occupancy of the house.
For fire safety reasons please do not use any candles in the property.
Please note quiet hours are between 11pm and 9am. Please be respectful to neighbours and wildlife.
Parties and loud music are not permitted.

The Old Coastguard Lookout is located in St Margaret's at Cliffe. The Old Coastguard Lookout provides accommodation, featuring Fireplace/Heating, Child Friendly, Balcony/Terrace, among other amenities. This House features Parking, Pet Friendly and TV to make your stay a comfortable one.

The Old Coastguard Lookout has 3 Bedrooms , 2 Bathrooms, and max occupancy of 6 people. The minimum rental for this property is 1 nights, but this can change depending on the season you plan on staying. Previous guests have given good rated it, and VRBO labeled it a top-rated House because of the excellent services rendered by the owner or manager of this House, and has consistently provided great experiences for their guests. Most families or guests that use it recommend it to their friends and some of them are repeat guests. House has a friendly neighborhood, and the St Margaret's at Cliffe has interesting places to visit. If you want to learn more about the House in St Margaret's at Cliffe, such as places to visit and things to do nearby, you can check below to learn more.