Blue Door on the Shore

There are no two ways about it: this home is a waterside wonder. With a subtle coastal theme to the decor, and a long garden leading right to the Bosham Channel, it's a historic cottage set over three floors, elegantly extended and modernised. There's no shortage of space, with plenty of room for up to eight guests and a choice of three sitting areas (we particularly love the first-floor living room with its cosy log burner and great views), and if you're lucky with the weather there's a lovely garden, dining terrace and a picnic table at the bottom of the garden – perfect for sundowners by the water.

After a day exploring this beautiful stretch of coast, or going inland to visit nearby Chichester, you can cook and eat together in your sprawling, stylish kitchen – perhaps with the wall of bi-folding doors open to let in the sea breeze. And snuggle up for evenings playing games or watching films in the comfy TV room. We hear there's even table tennis equipment in the shed, along with several bikes. With a perfect layout for families – or maybe two families sharing – it's a great choice for a break on the South Coast. And little ones will love the porthole window in the nautical-themed attic bedroom.

Home truths:
*There is no private parking but there is a large pay and display car park directly behind the home – it's not usually hard to find a space
*It's in a quiet setting but it's also been soundproofed throughout
*You'll have the free use of the home's bikes – you'll find them, and some garden games, in the shed
*The ice machine doesn't always work
*A cot and high chair are available for little ones
*At low tide, you'll be looking at the mudflats rather than the sea
*There are no nearby shops, but there's a Co-op a five-minute drive away and a pub a short walk away