PROPERTY
GRAND PROPERTIES
THE INSPIRING
Abbot's Cliff House
B Y
G E M M A
D U N N
It has been over 14 years since the first-ever airing of the hit
Channel 4 programme, Grand Designs, and although consumer
tastes may have changed in that time, the grandeur and thrill
that surrounds these properties certainly hasn't. As new
homeowners embark on their own elaborate architectural
projects each episode, we as the viewers become captivated
in the blood sweat and tears that goes into translating each
of these dreams into liveable and luxurious structures. So as
you can imagine, tracing our very own Kent-based ‘grand
design’, Abbot's Cliff House, is a feat that should be celebrated,
and indeed shared.
A stunning property elevated over the White Cliffs in Capel-le-Ferne, near
Folkestone, Abbot's Cliff has undergone eight years of refurbishment by
owner Steve Lucas, in a bid to restore the house to its former beauty and
create a rousing, luxurious build. And having championed much of its
original design and structure throughout its renovation, Steve has actively
ensured this dwelling's unique and colourful history is far from lost.
Built in 1860, this 19th-century estate once comprised of Abbot's
Cliff, the main manor house, and its now-neighbouring property, which
included a first-floor ballroom, carriage house and servants' quarters. The
main house was later used as a vital communications hub in World War II.
Since, each and every room has been painstakingly refurbished and
redecorated to attain a state of opulence, whilst still in keeping with the
original colour palette and authentic coving and interiors. The earliest build
also had a pitched roof, but amazingly this was completely blown off in the
1900s and never replaced.
Today, the beautiful home that is Abbot's Cliff is still a sought-after
property, first and foremost as a private residence with many passers-by
asking Steve if he would consider selling, but also as a stunning photo
shoot backdrop, used most recently for a Volkswagen advert. A choice
that's hardly surprising when you take one look at the sweeping coastline
view over the White Cliffs and beyond.
Abbot’s Cliff is now available FOR YOUR OWN LUXURY ESCAPE, INCLUDING CHRISTMAS WEEK!
As Christmas draws closer, avoid the
deliberations of who's hosting what this
year and instead gather the family together
for a cosy winter retreat away from the
norm. As for the first time, Abbot's Cliff is
available for private hire, and you're invited
to stay!
With plenty of space for eight, this inspiring
property includes four double bedrooms
and bathrooms, furnished with the finest
French-style interiors – perfect for a festive
reunion with family and friends. Whether
you choose to enjoy a brisk seasonal stroll
along the stretching cliffs, or cosy up inside
by the roaring fire in preparation for the
annual Christmas games, one thing is for
sure, Abbot's Cliff has so much to offer as
your home away from home.
For more info or to book Christmas or a
luxury self-catering holiday in 2014 contact
Steve at [email protected].
www.abbotscliff.co.uk
www.insidekentmagazine.co.uk
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