Martello House, Encombe, Sandgate, Kent

With the accolade of a WhatHouse? gold award, and a spectacular hillside setting, Martello House was constructed in 2020 forming part of the desirable Sandgate Pavilions. On entering the communal hallway, the luxurious finish gives a flavour of the high-quality finishes to be found within the apartments and Number 6 is no exception, showcasing stylish, light-filled rooms with contemporary interior design and a focus on the sea and wooded hillside views.

Part-glazed, double-doors open from the reception hall into the elegant sitting/dining room with the adjoining kitchen/ breakfast area, providing a convivial space where the impressive outlook towards the sea takes centre-stage. Adding character and dimension to the kitchen, fittings feature sleek two-tone cabinetry, and include stone work surfaces, integrated appliances and an island unit with breakfast bar which creates a subtle divide within the space. Picture windows ensure uninterrupted Channel views and two sets of glazed doors provide a seamless connection to the outdoor terraces.

The apartment has three bedrooms, with the principal bedroom having a luxurious en suite bathroom featuring a stylish freestanding tub and walk in shower; the room has sliding doors to the east-facing balcony. A smart shower room is accessed from the hallway, where a generous storage cupboard provides space to store outdoor wear and conceal domestic paraphernalia.

Enjoying an elevated setting above Sandgate, with Encombe Woods as a backdrop and spectacular sea views, Martello House residents benefit from security gates at the access point which open onto a private driveway leading to the allocated parking areas.

The communal gardens are well-maintained and feature a sinuous walkway, edged by a low wall, with areas of lawn being interspersed with conifers, specimen trees and rows of shrubs. A paved setting at the front offers an idyllic spot to sit and take in the views, with raised timber planters providing planting pockets for an attractive selection of architectural shrubs.

The apartment’s external setting allows an extension of the living environment to the al fresco space, with the large south-facing balcony having glazed balustrades and offering opportunities for outdoor entertaining, dining and relaxation, along with covered sections for shaded shelter. Two further balconies, one east and one north-facing, can be accessed from the bedroom accommodation providing private outdoor seating platforms.

Sandgate has a variety of useful amenities for day-to-day needs, as well as several antique and gift shops along with local pubs and several restaurants. Folkestone, with its burgeoning Arts scene, and Hythe provide more comprehensive facilities and services, including excellent schooling. There are several stunning beaches nearby.

The property is well placed for access to the M20. Excellent commuter train services are available from Ashford International and Folkestone West via the HS1, with journey times to London St Pancras from 36 minutes and 53 minutes respectively. The area has good access to the Continent via the Port of Dover and Eurotunnel.