Guests say
The Boat House near Canterbury is a spacious, quirky and comfortable holiday home with stunning views from every window, making it ideal for families, groups and dog owners. Guests praise its peaceful rural setting, ample space, and well-equipped interiors, with many enjoying the terraces and proximity to countryside walks and a welcoming local pub. While some mention minor cleaning and maintenance issues, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive, with many guests eager to return for another relaxing stay.
Most guests found the property clean and tidy, though a few noted cobwebs, dead flies in windows, and some kitchen utensils needing extra cleaning. One review mentioned black mould on the washing machine seal. Overall, cleanliness is good but could benefit from more attention to detail.
The location is highly praised for its tranquillity, beautiful countryside views, and proximity to walks, birdwatching, and a local pub. Its rural setting is appreciated by those seeking peace, yet it remains accessible to Canterbury and other attractions.
Guests consistently describe the house as spacious, comfortable, and warm, with comfy beds and plenty of room for families and groups. The property is welcoming to dogs and provides a cosy atmosphere, though the stairs may be challenging for some.
The house is well-equipped with good internet, toys, games, and kitchen essentials. Some guests noted a lack of instructions for appliances and suggested improved lighting on the terrace. Minor maintenance issues were mentioned but did not detract significantly from the overall experience.
Guests appreciated thoughtful touches such as dog treats, towels, and throws, as well as a good selection of toys and games for children. Please note that such gifts or extras are not guaranteed for every stay.
About this property
Located on the River Stour, The Boat House at Grove Ferry, near Canterbury offers a unique retreat amidst the activity of the working boatyard. This large family home is the perfect base for outdoor enthusiasts.. 8 steps to entrance.
Ground Floor:
Utility Room: Washing Machine, Tumble Dryer
Games Room: Games, Books, TV, Playstation 3
Shower Room: Walk-In Shower, Heated Towel Rail, Toilet
First Floor:
Living/dining room: TV, DVD Player, Patio Doors Leading To Terrace
Kitchen: Electric Oven, Induction Hob, Microwave, Fridge/Freezer, Dishwasher
Conservatory: Patio Doors Leading To Decked Area
Bedroom 1: Kingsize (5ft) Bed
Bathroom: Roll Top Bath, Heated Towel Rail, Toilet
Second Floor:
Bedroom 2: Super Kingsize (6ft) Bed
Bedroom 3: Zip And Link Double Bed (2 x Singles On Request), Double (4ft 6in) Bed.
Oil central heating, electricity, bed linen, towels and Wi-Fi included. Travel cot, highchair and stairgate available on request. Welcome pack. Enclosed terrace. Private parking for 3 cars. No smoking.. Welcome to The Boathouse, Grove Ferry. This truly unique three-bedroom retreat promises breath-taking views and newly decorated, comfortable accommodation for up to eight guests, making it an ideal escape for families and groups seeking tranquillity and relaxation or those looking to take advantage of its wonderful location for walking, cycling, kayaking and bird watching.
Overlooking the River Stour and its working boatyard, The Boathouse offers stunning panoramic views from every window. As you enter you’ll find plenty of space for shoes, boots and coats. There is a newly fitted walk-in shower room, a utility room containing a washing machine and a tumble dryer, and a games room with TV.
Upstairs to the first floor is the main living space, with a large and comfortable living and dining area comprising a 10-seater dining table, large U-shaped sofa and Smart TV. The living room opens onto the sunroom, a beautiful spot for sitting and enjoying the views at any time of the day.
The well-appointed kitchen has been redecorated and fitted with modern appliances.
Bedroom 1 is on this level and features a comfortable king-size bed and wonderful views across the main terrace with the curtains open. Across the hallway from Bedroom 1 is a newly installed bathroom featuring a roll-top bath.
Outside, the expansive rear terrace contains a further dining area and large Kettle BBQ. From here you have a commanding view over the whole boatyard, where you can watch boats come and go from the multiple moorings. From the front balcony, you watch birds fly to the nature reserve to roost.
On the top floor there are two further bedrooms; Master Bedroom 2 boasts a plush Super King Size bed with ensuite shower room, while Bedroom 3 offers flexible sleeping arrangements with a combination of 2 doubles that can be configured as singles making this perfect for families or groups.
With easy access to outdoor activities such as walking, kayaking, cycling and bird watching, there’s no shortage of adventures to embark on just steps away from your doorstep. Whether you’re seeking serenity or adventure, this waterfront escape promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you longing to return time and time again.
We are situated next to Grove Ferry Picnic Site, containing a large children’s play park and canoe hire station. Across from the Picnic site is Stodmarsh nature reserve, containing a number of marked trials and birdwatching hides - bring your binoculars! Our local pub/restaurant is a flat and traffic-free 10 minute walk along the riverbank, we highly recommend you experience the river trips that depart from here!
If you want to venture further afield then Grove Ferry is located just outside of the historic and very pretty city of Canterbury, renowned for its cathedral, city walls, shopping and general beauty! The beach isn’t far either if you want to mix up your holiday and visit Ramsgate, Broadstairs, or Margate for long stretches of golden sands and traditional fish and chips. Alternatively, there is Whitstable, Sandwich, Deal, Dover, and Folkestone for varied days out from adventure parks, water parks, golf (various world-renowned courses locally), fishing, multiple zoos and so much more for all to enjoy.
Free WiFi
There are steps within the property.
Only dogs allowed at the property.
It is possible for guests to bring their own kayaks/canoes/paddle boards/dinghies, please contact the owner in advance to arrange or you can enjoy one of the river trips that run from the pub (Grove ferry river trips). Stodmarsh National Nature Reserve is located adjacent to the picnic site and is one of the best places in the country to enjoy birdwatching and experience spectacular wildlife.
Suitable for up to 2 pets
Reviews (24)
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Confirmed Guest
Three generations of my family enjoyed their time at The Boat House. There was a great selection of toys, books and games which our Grandchildren really appreciated but given the family friendly let it was a shame there was no playing space for kids outside. The property was well presented, tidy, well equipped and clean (except the washing machine which had black mould on the seals). We also enjoyed the opportunity to use our Mirror dinghy for a small extra fee. The location was lovely, rural and generally quiet except for the road noise during peak traffic hours. The only down side was front entrance car park which was untidy and resembled a skip-site with abandoned boats, trailers, tractor and mini railway stock. This gave a poor first impression on arrival as did the gate code being changed three times since the code provided to us before our visit!
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Susan Robinson
Very comfortable, quirky property. Everything was clean and location was great. Nice 10 minute walk, off road, to Grove Ferry Inn, picnic area and children's lovely playpark. Great views of fields and river from every window. Our 8 year old granddaughter loved watching the many birds. So much so, that I have bought her a pair of binoculars to continue her new hobby. Only issue was allocated parking unclear and tricky to negotiate sometimes but, didn't spoil our time here. Would definitely go again, maybe with our other grandchildren. They would love the quirkiness, views and playroom.
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Judith Gregory
Had a brilliant weekend break at the boat house Canterbury. The place is huge, the beds are comfy and there is everything you need for a break away from everything. The surrounding countryside is beautiful. There is a lovely sun room leading to the outside, which is perfect if the weather is against you.All in all we had a perfect relaxing weekend, and would love to go there again.