Cosy Cottages With Pub Walks in Kent

If wonky walls, wizened beams and wide floorboards get your heart rate up, Skippers is the perfect choice for a bucolic break. A characterful, three-storey cottage in the heart of Deal’s Georgian conservation area, Skippers boasts a large inglenook fireplace in the sitting room, with an eclectic mix of furniture throughout.

Just steps from both the seafront and the bustling town centre, the cottage sits in a wonderful position for browsing the range of shops, restaurants and other attractions nearby. For a winter’s walk that ends in a cosy pub, we’d suggest a walk along the seafront before returning to The Ship Inn for interiors that have remained largely unchanged, or The Deal Hoy for seriously good pizza. 

• Sleeps 6
• 7 nights from £835

A characterful cottage with a joyful, colourful refresh, Oyster Bay is full of thoughtful touches and cosy corners. Beautifully renovated by its owners alongside a local interior designer, this two-bedroom home sits in the heart of Whitstable, a short stroll from the working harbour, the beachfront and easy access to the Saxon Shore Way.

With pretty wallpapers, panelling and original artwork throughout, this charming escape is a welcome retreat in any season, but the ‘ber months bring with them dramatic crimson sunsets, evenings curled up by the wood burner and the suggestion of fresh Whitstable oysters and champagne overlooking the harbour. Upstairs, a roll top bath is waiting for a long soak after a blustery walk along the shingle. For that cosy pub experience, wrap up warm and find your way to Old Neptune orThe Duke of Cumberland.

Sleeps 4
7 nights from £760

Whatever imagery you’ve conjured up after reading the name of this property, allow us to assure you that it certainly measures up. The Serene House is a glorious Grade II listed home dating back to 1603, with original features aplenty. While lots of wonderful character remains, the property has been painstakingly refreshed to offer the indulgences of today’s era, with marshmallow-soft seating, a well-equipped kitchen and a woodburning stove occupying the impressive inglenook. 

One small dog is very welcome, and when you can bear to pull yourself away from this storybook setting, we suggest a wander to The Honeysuckle Inn in neighbouring Ramsgate for 17th-century charm, Sonder for something more local, or Tartar Frigate for a seafood spin on pub classics. 

• Sleeps 6
• 7 nights from £1096

Occupying an impossibly glorious setting, Violet Cottage offers direct beach access via the garden gate and sparkling sea views from two out of three bedrooms. Inside, it is the ultimate family escape, bedecked with boardgames, a large enough dining table for everyone and an inviting sitting room with a log burner and bookcase. 

Unmistakably influenced by its seaside surroundings, the interiors are inviting yet airy, which may be just the tonic for those seeking open skies in the depths of winter. Violet Cottage is ideal for walking the England Coast Path, and is just seconds from The Zetland Arms, a postcard-perfect pub on the beach.  

• Sleeps 6 (x2 in bunk beds) 
• 7 nights from £916