The Martello Tower was part of a chain of 74 built along the South Coast around 1806 to prevent invasion by Napoleon and the French. Each circular Martello was designed with a high entrance door, cannon on the top capable of firing in any direction and accommodation for a 24 strong garrison. The Tower is built from 1/4 million bricks with walls which range from a massive 13 foot thick on the seaward side to 6 foot on the landward side. The 2 narrow original windows are still present on the middle floor. Extra windows were added in the 1960's when the Tower was converted to residential use.
The Tower has modern spacious accommodation spread over three floors but retains many original features, including vaulted brick ceilings, ammunition store and even the original door to the top with a hatch to pass cannon balls through.
Only 25 Towers now remain standing on the South Coast and only 10 are residential. No.2 has all the best features of any of the Martello conversions and is the only south coast Tower available for short term holiday let.
Further details indoors:
The Tower is accessed via an external staircase up to the original middle floor entrance. The doorway leads into the open plan living space comprising modern kitchen, lounge and dining area. This circular room features a central brick pillar which supports the vaulted ceiling and benefits from a wood burning stove, comfy sofa and large circular oak dining table. Patio doors lead to the balcony with views over Folkestone Harbour and the garden.
Downstairs there is a double bedroom in the original vaulted ammunition store and a wedge shaped twin room (with ample space for additional cot). The family bathroom boasts a large Victorian roll top bath and separate shower.
The top floor is reached via a stone staircase set in the Tower wall. The gun level top room has a partitioned off double bedroom and en suite shower room. The remaining majority of the circle is an additional living room which has windows on the top of the parapet and a conical roof. From on high panoramic views can be enjoyed including the White Cliffs of Dover, the shoreline and beaches and the town. On a clear day you will even glimpse the White Cliffs of France and Calais 22 miles away. More to the west you will see Dungeness, Fairlight and the North Downs disappearing into the distance. All quite spectacular!
Further details outdoors:
Ample car parking is available on private driveway.
The property is surrounded by a large secluded garden which has lawned areas, mature trees and fish pond.The garden has decked areas, a barbecue for guest use, garden furniture and children's playhouse and large trampoline.