This handsome Grade-II Listed five-bedroom house in Deal unfolds over 3,000 sq feet, having been extended over the centuries from its 16th-century nucleus. The result is an intriguing mélange of architectural styles, from Tudor to Georgian to Victorian. Rooms are characterised by beautiful original features, such as wooden panelling, large inglenook fireplaces and timber beams. A charming garden, bursting with lavender, extends over one-third of an acre, with a beautiful section enclosed by its original walls. The location in the hamlet formerly known as Upper Deal lends the house a rural rather than coastal air, close to Deal's increasingly flourishing scene.

Setting the Scene

Deal is first mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086, where it appears as Addelam. The area surrounding the parish church of St Leonards in Deal has its roots in Norman times, with this part of Deal originally existing as a separate hamlet known as Upper Deal. Over the years, as the Smuggler Quarter expanded, the two settlements merged, but this particular area still retains its distinct character, thanks to the houses that were successively built in the streets surrounding the historic church. One notable example is Rectory Road, which, as the name suggests, leads from the church and is home to one of the oldest houses on the street.

The house has a rich history, having been used as a poor house in the 1720s, briefly housing troops during World War II before subsequently becoming the residence of the local schoolmaster. From the street, the house presents an imposing sight. The freshly painted plastered façade is punctuated with nine sash windows, defined by a sense of elegance and symmetry. The handsome dark grey glossed door, framed by a Georgian flat top door surround, adds balance befitting its architectural period.

The Grand Tour

The front door opens to an intimate vestibule. To the right is an expansive sitting room, where wooden floorboards add warmth and character. The walls have been painted in a soft cream shade, lending an air of elegance to the space. The room's focal point is a large inglenook fireplace set in an exposed brick wall, adding a tactile materiality. Two wide sash windows bathe the room in natural light, creating an inviting and airy atmosphere with one original stanchion window that was recently restored. The dining room has a nautical feel, with its glossed wooden panelling and low-beamed ceiling. A carved wood surround accents an exposed brick fireplace.

The kitchen is set in the former coach house and is a beautiful blend of historic charm and modern functionality. Its high vaulted ceiling creates a sense of volume, while large windows on three sides of the room allow light in and frame pretty views of the garden. The cabinetry is painted a gentle cream, topped by contrasting sleek black granite work surfaces. Additionally, there is a Rangemaster and porcelain tiles on the floor with underfloor heating.

Adjacent to the kitchen is a study housed in the Victorian extension. It can be accessed from the sitting room through a heavy-studded wooden door or directly from the kitchen. The study features flagstone flooring, adding character, while the brick walls are painted in a mellow yellow, creating a particularly sunny ambience. A useful guest bathroom and utility room also sit next door, the latter of which provides access to the garden. The large former cellar has been thoughtfully converted into a versatile room that could easily be used as a games room or a cinema.

The house has many different staircases, reflecting its extended history. One winds up from the sitting room, while another is hidden behind a wooden door, leading to split levels. The principal bedroom is defined by its generous proportions, high ceilings and wide wooden floorboards. A canted bay window with a large sash window creates a sense of space, complemented by a marble fireplace.

Another bedroom at the front of the house with off-white walls and a pretty pink accent wallpaper. Additional stairs lead to three more bedrooms, one has mustard-yellow walls that harmonise with the wooden floorboards, and the other two with beautiful garden views through wide windows.

The bathroom stands out with its striking colour scheme, with its mint green and cream wainscotted panelled walls, red Amtico tiled flooring, and a red freestanding bath set within an alcove. Stained glass decorated the window. The principal bedroom also has its own shower room.

The Great Outdoors

The house is surrounded by an extensive garden filled with mature shrubbery, evoking a peaceful atmosphere and divided into three distinct areas. Closest to the home, flower beds have been carefully planted around low brick walls that have been lined with lavender. A charming passageway leads to a large patio, accessible from the kitchen, catching the sunlight throughout the day. It is a lovely spot for hosting and looks onto a large grassy area filled with wildflowers. To one side is an outbuilding that serves as a store room or workshop. From here, a pathway meanders to a further lawn where vegetable beds have been planted, and trees create shade, including Bay, Sycamore, monkey puzzle and yew hedging. A gate leads to a large private driveway with a large garage accommodating three cars.

Out and About

Rectory Road is conveniently located close to the bustling centre of Deal, which has experienced a flourishing of culture and culinary offerings in recent years. One of the most popular openings is the Rose Hotel, known for its excellent bar and restaurant. The Frog & Scot is also fabulous and has a lovely wine bar, Le Pinardier. Real Deal Roasters is a renowned coffee supplier, Arno & Co is the preferred coffee shop and deli, whilst Merchant of Relish is the favoured grocer. The Black Pig butchers and Jenkins & Sons fishmongers are also both noteworthy. There is also a fantastic Saturday farmers’ market selling local produce. Updown Farmhouse is also a short drive away.

The High Street has many other independent antique, clothes, and homewares stores. Built in the early 1800s in the Captain’s Gardens at Deal Castle, it provides creative spaces for local craftspeople to work and offers workshops, talks, and events. Other local attractions include the famed Deal Castle, nearby Walmer Castle, and slightly further afield, Sandwich Bay and St Margaret’s Bay.

Sandwich, Dover and Canterbury are easily accessed by car via the A2 and A258. High-speed trains run from Deal to London St Pancras with a total journey time of 84 minutes, with alternative direct trains to London Charing Cross and London Bridge. Access to the continent is also excellent via the Port of Dover, the Channel Tunnel at Folkestone and Eurostar from Ashford International.

Council Tax Band: G