Helvetia

The Dungeness National Nature Reserve draws birdwatchers, photographers and walkers year-round. The New Lighthouse sits within reach, and the shingle beach itself is the main draw—a dramatic, windswept landscape that feels more like wild coastline than typical seaside resort. Helvetia puts you right there, with views across the water that stretch uninterrupted. A telescope is provided so you can track the shipping lanes, the migration patterns the area is famous for, and the night sky after dark.

The cottage is a two-bedroom, one-bathroom property sleeping four. Downstairs holds a living room with television and DVD player, a separate dining room, a kitchen equipped for proper cooking, and a sun room where you can sit with those views. Bedroom one has a kingsize bed (5ft); bedroom two has a double (4ft 6in). The bathroom includes both a bath and a separate shower cubicle. Electricity, wifi, bed linen and towels are included. There is on-site parking and a patio with garden furniture; a coal barbecue is available if you bring your own fuel. A wood burner provides warmth. The interior keeps an Art Deco theme throughout—mirrors, ornaments and glassware from the 1930s—giving the space a particular character. No smoking is permitted inside.