The Old Spy Headquarters, Folkestone

Kent. Sleeps up to 4

The Old Spy Headquarters is a stunning two-bedroom, first-floor apartment resting in a double-fronted, Victorian building, sitting directly opposite the beach and boasting stunning views as far as France from the wrought iron period balcony. Housed in a Grade 11 listed former ‘Spy headquarters’ it provides a wealth of history – including its own historic blue Plaque to commemorate the fact that it was used in World War I to train spies from Britain, France and Belgium. Ascend the steps to this grand historic building and travel though the communal hallway housing cabinets with artefacts and information about this period in the houses’ history; upstairs, approach the apartment entrance and once inside, be impressed by the delightful living space, uplifted by natural light from the large bay windows and double French doors leading out to the balcony. Within this space there is a three-seater sofa, a swivel armchair and a Smart TV, perfect for indulging a movie night with loved ones. Bask in the wonderful sea views whilst dining alfresco or in front of the bay window, allowing the designated chef to make use of a full-equipped kitchen with all the necessities for home- cooking, including a microwave and a dishwasher to save on the cleaning up. On nights when you don’t feel like cooking, savour a fine selection of food and drink in one of the local restaurants nearby. When the evening draws to a close, retreat to the master bedroom, adorned with a double bed, French doors onto the balcony and magnificent sea views; a second bedroom also features a double bed and large sash windows filling the room with light. Completing the interior is a family-sized bathroom with bath and shower over; a storage cupboard on the communal stairs houses an ironing board, iron, board games, novels and a hoover for all your homely needs. The entire apartment has a feel of grandeur and space due to the exceptionally high ceilings. Just opposite lies a pebble beach and beach boardwalk which leads to the Harbour Arm, full of an eclectic range of small shacks with cuisine from around the globe. There is an outdoor cinema close by, showing classic films and sport coverage throughout the year; find the renowned ‘Rocksalt’ Restaurant only paces away, cantilevered over Folkestone Harbour with panoramic floor to ceiling views out over the English Channel, making Folkestone a top foodie destination. Travelling past the Harbour Arm lies the working harbour, bringing in its daily catch and providing fresh seafood for your evening meal or seafood snacks such as cockles, whelks, mussels and jellied eels! Why not take advantage of the sea sports facilities on offer at Sunny Sands beach just beyond the harbour? Taking the boardwalk, reach Lower Leas Coastal Park, with its wonderful array of coastal plants and an extensive adventure playground. From here you can take the intriguing ‘Zig Zag’ path up to the Leas promenade where, during the summer months, you can enjoy the live sounds of the bandstand at weekends. If you prefer to immerse yourself in local art and history, follow the ‘art trail’ around the town – can you spot all on offer? Be sure not to miss Anthony Gormley’s statue of a man, visible at low tide only undeath the harbour arm! Spend time along the ‘invasion coast’ where you can discover multiple Martello Towers between Hythe and Rye, as well as the Royal Military Canal which offers opportunities for walking, cycling and boating. Take a day trip to the coastal town of Dover, boasting its iconic white cliffs, guided tours of the South Foreland lighthouse and the ruins of Dover castle. Other attractions include Deal and Canterbury as well as Ashford’s designer outlet centre for retail therapy, only a short drive away. London is easily accessible on the fast hourly trains and even a day trip to France is within your grasp from this charming base. Whether it’s delighting in sea walks, submerging yourself in local culture or tasting the culinary delicacies from around the world – Folkestone has it all! The Old Spy Headquarters is a wonderful retreat for accessing the best of Kent and the surrounding coastline.