As we face another heatwave, many of us will be dreaming about living by the water and strolling to the bottom of the garden to dip into the sea. We’ve partnered with Strutt & Parker’s Waterside Properties to highlight some of the most incredible houses by the sea currently on the market and to learn more about the waterside market.
Before we take a look, here’s what Christian Swaab, Head of Waterside at Strutt & Parker, has to say about the market right now
“Confidence has returned to the waterside market, and particularly so for the £3.5M+ level where buyers are more focused on making long-term decisions based on their lifestyle and are less exposed to wider financial pressures. Coastal favourites like Cornwall and South Hams remain strong, but we’re also seeing growing demand for homes near established marinas – where relaxed waterfront living meets convenience and community. These locations are particularly appealing to younger buyers and second-home owners who want a certain degree of vibrancy; restaurants, shops, private members and sailing clubs, and the ability to moor their boat just minutes from their front door.
Creek End, Chichester Harbour, West Sussex
Creek End has been designed to make the most of its stunning views over Chichester Harbour. An “upside-down” house, its communal living areas enjoy spectacular vistas of green fields and bright blue water on a sunny day.
Set within 17 acres, the property also benefits from a private path down to the harbour for peaceful swims. A reflecting pool and contemporary rill within the beautifully landscaped gardens ensure water is celebrated throughout.
Find out more about Creeks End.
Tregardock, Cornwall
This secluded farmhouse, set within 29 acres on the North Cornwall coast, offers a peaceful haven. Every room enjoys countryside or sea views, with large windows flooding the interiors with light. Outside, a sheltered walled garden and a sun-soaked terrace create idyllic spaces for al fresco dining.
The property also includes a charming one-bedroom cottage, currently run as a successful holiday let with its own enclosed garden.
Find out more about this Cornish farmhouse.
Invertrossachs, Stirlingshire, Scotland
Though located beside a loch rather than the sea, this Scottish estate is too spectacular to overlook. Overlooking Loch Venachar, the house was originally built as an Edwardian shooting lodge and today sits within expansive woodland with level lawns and terraces perfect for summer sunshine.
While the water may be too cold for a dip, Loch Venachar is a favourite among hikers, cyclists, and anglers who can catch brown trout and pike by boat or from the banks.
Find out more about Invertrossachs.
Bodennick, Cornwall
With breathtaking views across the Carrick Roads, Bodennick sits on the highly sought-after “deep-water” side of Restronguet Point. Designed in the 1960s by renowned Truro architect John Crowther, its floor-to-ceiling picture windows perfectly frame the coastal scenery.
The property also boasts 135ft of water frontage and direct water access. A dry dock, private slipway, and boat store make it almost irresistible for keen sailors.
Find out more about Bodennick here.
Holmes House, Colwell Bay, Isle of Wight
Set on one of the Isle of Wight’s most popular beaches, Holmes House is a stunning Victorian home that has been refurbished into a true trophy property, filled with natural light.
A standout feature is the cantilevered deck, which extends beyond the cliff edge to showcase uninterrupted sea views and some of the best sunsets on the island. The landscaped grounds also include a heated outdoor pool (for the chillier days), a games lawn, tennis court, and a fully enclosed kitchen garden, making this an exceptional home for entertaining.
Find out more about Holmes House.
The Garden House, Cornwall
Located in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, The Garden House lies on the east bank of the River Fowey. Sitting in an elevated position, it enjoys panoramic river views from its terraces—both at house level and at the water’s edge. Between them, peaceful meadows and wooded areas provide space to enjoy the outdoors in tranquillity.
Perfect for entertaining, the property also features its own bar and a 26ft sitting/dining room ideal for gatherings both large and small.
Find out more about the Garden House.
Mermaid Cottage, Kent
Perched beneath the White Cliffs of Dover, this Art Deco house has an extraordinary history. Built in the 1920s, it is one of the few houses in the area to have survived WWII. The Canadian army caused heavy damage here during D-Day training, yet Mermaid Cottage endured. Over the years it has been home to notable residents including Noel Coward and Ian Fleming.
Today, the house offers a tranquil lifestyle, with the sound of waves and sea breezes filling the air. With panoramic views across the English Channel and a Mediterranean garden, it’s hard to imagine being unhappy here.
Find out more about Mermaid Cottage here.
Whether you want to put your swimmers on and slip into the water for a cooling dip or snuggle up to watch storms roll in across the ocean, there are plenty of incredible waterside properties available with Strutt & Parker on OnTheMarket.com. Explore them now using the interactive map search or by entering your chosen keywords.
