Rogue’s Cottage
Some traditions are worth holding on to.
Ours is simple: once a year, we leave everything behind — partners, overflowing inboxes, the noise of everyday life — and we escape. Just the three of us, as friends. Because tending to a friendship is as vital as tending to love, each year we choose a place where we can pause, breathe, and reconnect with ourselves, and with each other.
Our lives, like most, are full to the brim. Diaries packed tight, thoughts constantly elsewhere, and the world outside often heavy. After years of discovering European capitals, our hearts longed for something quieter, softer. No bustling city this time, but green landscapes, sea air, somewhere far... yet not too far. England. Kent. And then, quite suddenly, Deal. A little seaside town that seemed to whisper, “Come here.”
As we searched for the right place to stay — somewhere that felt like us — we stumbled upon Rogue’s Cottage. It was instant. A spark. And somehow, the real thing turned out to be even more magical than we imagined.
The moment we stepped off the train under a brilliant sky, we were greeted by a lively high street, humming with weekend energy. We wandered, eyes wide, charmed by every antique shop window, every corner musician playing our steps forward. It felt like a secret dream coming true: living inside Gilmore Girls, but in coastal England.
And then, 2 Dolphin Street. The sea at the end of the road. Hearts racing. We arrived at the cottage.
A soft light welcomed us into a cozy sitting room, where a fireplace rested in a brick alcove, as if waiting for us. A little built-in library caught our eye — and stole our book lovers hearts. We hadn’t even crossed the threshold, and already, it felt like home.
Beyond, a long, beautifully designed kitchen with a golden brass countertop opened onto a quiet terrace. The dining room, with its wooden door to the garden, was soon filled with laughter, candlelight, and local flavors shared over late-night talks that tried, as always, to remake the world.
The living spaces did what they were meant to do, they brought us back to each other. But the bedrooms… they were a world of their own.
Up a narrow staircase, the first room revealed itself in deep, calming green. Thoughtfully decorated, with generous closets and a quilt-covered bed that felt like falling into a cloud. Just across the way, a bathroom in rich warm tones and a glowing copper bathtub at its center, inviting us to slow down and simply be. The terracotta floor tiles whispered of sun-drenched southern cities… but weren’t we in the south of England after all?
And finally, tucked into the mezzanine, a double room wrapped in whimsical floral wallpaper, the kind that finds its echo even in the window shade. Every detail, down to the smallest, had been chosen with care.
Rogue’s Cottage gave us more than we came for. With its graceful blend of timeless English charm and quiet modernity, it offered us a home and something even rarer: a space where we could let go. Truly let go.
And maybe, at the end of the day, that’s what we’re all looking for.
Text - Mélanie Giustino @bonjour.melanie
City guide - Djelissa Latini @djelissalatini
Pictures - Camille Gressier @camille_gressier
Rogue’s Cottage Deal @roguescottagedeal
Book your stay at Keeper’s Cottages @keeperscottages
A GUIDE TO DEAL, KENT
Where to Eat
Walmer Fish & Chips
Perfectly situated along the seafront, this local gem offers golden, crispy classics with gluten-free fried options available. Best enjoyed with sea views and salty air.Middle Street Fish Bar
Tucked away on a charming lane, this tiny takeaway has quirky hours—but it’s worth the wait for fresh, no-frills fish and chips.Updown Farmhouse
A destination in itself. Savour a glorious Sunday roast in the atmospheric, candlelit sunken dining room. Afterwards, linger in the lush garden with a glass (or two) of wine.Deal Pier Kitchen
Bottomless brunch on the pier. Need we say more? A breezy, joyful spot to start your day with views that stretch out to forever.Deal Deli
A small but exquisite Italian deli offering freshly filled cannoli, soft focaccia, and artisanal products. Ideal for a seaside picnic or slow morning browse.The Rose
A beautifully designed boutique hotel with an excellent breakfast menu. Located right next to the bustling Saturday market.Deal Beach Parlour
Pick up a scoop (or three) of classic ice cream, then head around the corner to the retro arcade for a delightful blast from the past.
Where to Shop
Union Road Market (Saturdays only)
A joyful weekly gathering of local growers, makers, and musicians. The heart of the town on weekends—with delicious food, vintage finds, and dogs galore.Barkened
A charming shop offering thoughtfully curated home goods, stylish clothing, and pet essentials—everything from eco treats to chic leather leashes.Arno & Co
A welcoming little treasure trove with friendly staff, locally made breads, freshly brewed coffee, and a beautiful selection pantry goods.The Shop Front
Possibly the narrowest boutique in town, but with one of the best-curated antique displays around. Keep an eye on the window—it changes with the seasons.Pop Art
This joyful antiques shop feels like a museum of nostalgia. Packed with quirky finds, vintage toys, and charming oddities for every generation.The Deal Bookshop
A beloved independent bookshop with a curated selection of fiction, gardening books, and seaside reads.
Where to Have a Pint
(and a Proper Night Out)
The Ship Inn
Classic pub charm and community warmth—ideal for a quiet pint.The Alma
A lively hub with live music, darts, snooker, and a short-but-satisfying menu featuring handmade pot pies with mash and gravy. Heartily British and full of soul.The Goodwin
Buzzing on weekends with live performances and friendly locals. Great drinks and even better energy.Deal Hoy
A gorgeous old pub with wood-fired pizzas served in the leafy back garden.
Coffee and a moment to slow down
Hope and Lane
Tucked just off the high street, this warm café invites you to sit out back and people-watch—especially the dogs who eagerly pause by the butcher’s next door (The Black Pig)Hut 55
An adorable beach hut café with stripy deck chairs right on the sand. Order a flat white and breathe in the coastal calm.Mrs. Knott’s Tea Room (at South Foreland Lighthouse)
After a walk to St. Margaret’s Cliffe Cove, reward yourself with a classic cream tea at this storybook tea room. Cosy interiors, amazing views and beautifully set tables make this a truly special stop.