A beautiful place. 4.5/5
This is our 2nd time in fog signal building, its in a beautiful part of the world and we will definitely be back again next year.
The property is in need of a little TLC in places, the decking by the French doors needs replacing, and a new sofa would be good. However these are minor issues, they dont retract from the wonderful place and vibe truly magical place . Steve Mammone 26-09-24
Steven Mammone | 26 September 2024
Amazing stay 4.8/5
Unrivalled view of the seafront of Dungeness beach and weather. The Fog Signal building brilliantly designed so that you have a view out of all four sides with a modernist interior. We had a wonderful weekend and will be returning.
Robert Alster | 10 September 2024
Perfect environment from which to immerse oneself in the peace and beauty of Dungeness. 4.5/5
The Fog Signal Building is an exceptional environment. Its location coupled with the amount of glass that forms its design makes for a seamless connection with the outside. Sea, boats, the incredible light of Dungeness, wild rabbits, birds and the occasional appearance of a fox are all very much to be enjoyed from the Fog Signal Building. Elegant and comfortably furnished, small but good selection of books, well equipped kitchen and bathroom. Perhaps a little tired here and there but overall an excellent holiday home.
Enrico Dummett | 01 July 2024
Unusual and unique 3.5/5
Amazing location in the day, close to the Lighthouse and beach so lots of tourists around, but, very different atmosphere after dark because its remote I felt it was a bit "spooky" at night, particularly as there are no curtains/ blinds on any of the 9 floor to ceiling size glass doors plus windows so I felt it was difficult to feel cozy, private and secure at night.There is a curtain that goes around the bed so atleast no one can see you there. During the day these glass doors/windows let in lots of light, which gives a fabulous impression of space when, infact, the biulding is quite compact. Appliances and furnishings are good quality but some are showing signs of wear. I Couldn't find the kitchen light switch or it didn't work, so I couldn't cook after dark, and I noticed a previous review also mentioned this, so needs addressing. The wire fencing that surrounds the property has collapsed in some places which adds to the uniqueness of the biulding but if you're bringing your pet make sure they don't escape as it is definitely not enclosed but the upside is that it does give you direct access to the beach. To sum it all up, first impressions were "wow" but staying there left me somewhat deflated
Amanda Taylor | 31 May 2024
Absolutely amazing building 4.8/5
We really loved our stay in the Fog Signal building. The building was so unique and the bonus is this building is at the very end isolated from the other buildings so it definitely felt like we were in some European movie. Everything was perfect, the iMac was a great touch. We did struggle to find the kitchen light or maybe it wasnt working but it was impossible to turn on which meant we had to cook in the dark - but it wasnt the end of the world!
Sana Ali | 25 April 2024
Unique location 3.7/5
A unique location with outstanding views across the English Channel.. Very comfortable and ideal for a weekend getaway for 2 people.
My only criticism is that on arrival the heating was not working and in February, it was very cold. Being underfloor heating was lovely once we got it on, but it took over night and some of the next day to warm the place sufficiently. Also some of the power was off when we arrived. Small table lamps were working, except for one next to the bed, which didn't work at all and plug sockets but everything else was off. There were logs to use on the wood burner but very limited amount. It seems as though the property hadn't had a final check before we arrived, we also had to empty the dishwasher !!
Finally, everything was clean except the toilet in the bathroom !!
Overall, we had a lovely stay and my criticisms are probably niggly things, but when paying what we did for 3 nights, one would expect a little more care in preparation.
Guest | 14 February 2024
Bank holiday stay 4.3/5
The location is wonderful from inside the property you can see the sea. There are binoculars to view the ships and the property is stunning. The pebble beach backs onto the property. there are some gaps in the fence we ducked through to walk along the beach. It needs a tiny bit of maintenance where theres been some water leakage and we had some issues with the light switches where we couldnt get some lights to go on at all (and the bathroom dimmer light needed to be pushed in very firmly to get it to go on), but this wasnt an issue because there were some corner lights which were perfect. We even wondered the manufacturers. The design choices are modern and I really liked them. The kitchens oven was very modern and cool. It was well equipped. The bed was really comfy and we slept well. It was very quiet. In the evening when the tourists leave (after 4ish, which is when the pubs close) youre left with the area to yourself. Take a head torch if you fancy going for a walk in the evening.
The checkout was 10am which felt a little early. We texted the owner to inquire if we could extend but maybe we sent it too late, since we didnt get a response unfortunately. Maybe we should have contacted one of the other numbers.
We really enjoyed it.
Ed Bateman | 03 September 2023
Wilderness, calmness and luxury at its best! 4.8/5
Our week in the Fog Signal Building was truly exceptional. The location, the nature, the view and especially the cozy building are perfect to get away and enjoy time far away from any disturbances. It was only calmness and a feeling of simple luxury. As an architect myself, I appreciate the design, the quality of materials and the floor plan of the building very much.
Although there was a small incident with the electricity, the owners were able to send someone over within hours to have it fixed.
The house is very well equipped with anything one might need and it was extraordinarily clean.
We will definitely visit the Fog Signal Building and beautiful Dungeness again!
Dorothea Rader | 27 July 2023
A little slice of heaven 4.8/5
An unexpected find which was actually a little slice of heaven. Beautifully appointed accommodation, amazing location and just what was needed.
Well equipped kitchen, comfy sofa and great views. Perfect for a walk on the beach, a cup of tea (or something stronger) on the deck, a great location to stop, relax and unwind.
Walkable to the seafood snack shack for a lobster lunch, or a slightly longer leisurely walk on the cobbled shore to the Pilots Hub for a drink or two.
All information provided by Bloom was helpful and accurate.
One tip, whilst the sunrises are gorgeous, if you don't want to see them every day I would take a sleep/eye mask.
Claire Tary | 25 July 2023
A lovely break. 4.8/5
A lovely place to stay and unwind. The house is beautiful and you cant go far wrong with the views. An unforgettable experience.
My only comments would be the water pressure in the shower which was a little low, and the main light in the kitchen which tripped the power. I managed to reset on the fuse box but we had to move a light into the kitchen. Didnt affect our stay but just wanted to let you know.
Many thanks for the hospitality!
Tom
Tom Fairfax | 05 June 2023
Grand Design Living 4.3/5
The location and property are amazingly unique. This trumps any minor issues you may have with the property; we loved it!
I think the property must have been converted about the same time our Flat in london was as some of the fittings date from the same period! The property was converted for aesthetic and design. Minor issues were a 2011 imac for TV and no sense of welcome pack. and peculiar Japanese bathroom! I guess these all add to the mystique!
Jonathan Watkiss | 09 April 2023
Unique, remote and relaxing! 4.7/5
Pros (too many to list!):
Highly recommend both this converted accommodation and Dungeness! The place was both comfortable and modern - truly unique in setting and design, and beautifully sunlit and warm.
Theres useful storage, good books on the shelf, and everything you need to cook. The baths were great (yes tall, but so comfortable) and along with the bed/sofa and fire made for a really zen stay!
We stayed with our dog, and he loved to roam the shingle from the double doors. Theres lots of history and blustery walks (or runs) right on your doorstep, and other great places to visit are a short car (or train!) ride away. Recommend the old lighthouse for the view, and strolling through the local galleries. Both pubs have good beer and generous portions, as does the railway cafe!
Cons (minor):
but theres no local shop so do stock up before arriving!
Another review mentions the lighting, and it did take us a moment to work out which switches worked but theres so much light its not an inconvenience.
The view out the front was affected by bad weather on day one which obscured the window panes a little, so a bucket and sponge to hand to fix this ourselves for the rest of the sunny time would have been welcome!
Michelle Barker | 06 April 2023
Bleak and beautiful 4.2/5
A fantastic place to stay on the edge of Dungeness, looking out to the sea. The simple elegant design suits the bleak but beautiful landscape. Wonderful place to escape to for a few days.
Marsha Roddy | 21 March 2023
Great location but property needs some TLC 3.7/5
An interesting property in a unique location, warm and comfortable in spite of cold and stormy weather, and a good size for 2. There were a few issues that needed attention - leaking roof, lights not working, and several of the outside doors sticking. There was an excellent positive response to us pointing the issues out - but not all of them were fixable while we were there, so I'd suggest the property really needs a full check and refurb before letting. It is an expensive property, so it seems reasonable to expect it to be in excellent condition. The 2 baths seemed a rather strange arrangement, hard to access (I imagine very difficult for anyone with mobility issues) and take an hour to fill.
Marie-claire Uhart | 25 January 2023
Wild, remote and brilliant design 4.8/5
An incredible place, inside and out. We loved being surrounded by light on all sides, the furniture, overall design and location at the end of the track on the incredible Dungeness peninsula. Our dog Mungo loved living on a massive beach for the week too. If youre looking for somewhere to totally reset brain and body, this is it. The big baths take a while to run but complete the neo-monastic, post-apocalyptic scene.
George Proudfoot | 26 June 2022
May bank holiday long weekend stay. Fog Signal Building 3.7/5
The directions and information forwarded to us were spot on . Clear and concise .
On entering the property bit strange main door had no handle as it was dark no pre warning of this . However it was spotlessly clean and just right for 2 people. Sainsbury deliver at 10.30pm even tracked us down
The kitchen equipment was excellent just a shame we did not know what there was before we came . I did ask and no one knew if there was A coffee pot/ cafeteria.? There was . !!
Bed comfy and clean .
The bathroom is very quirky . Wooden baths Which is fun but how anyone can climb into first bath/ shower tub I don't know ? It was very high and no step provided. The second bath we did climb in and out of with difficulty and we are tall and quite fit. The toilet roll holder is located under the hand basin and unless you are Houdini then you could not reach .!! Only one toilet roll provided for a three night stay and no cleaning products . Particularly with covid expected some antibacterial cleaner and toilet clean/bleach .
Nothing in the kitchen either, very strange .
Logs and matches provided for log burner was excellent and very warm when lit.
We enjoyed our stay it was quirky ,unique and fabulous location. I only gave 3 stars for comfort as the chairs were very low and not comfortable. Bath was difficult to access and toilet roll. Seatee was best place to sit .
Condition only 4 as decor and cleanliness excellent but no step to get in bath is a big issue . Also the central ceiling lights did not work in main room. We had other lamps that worked snd kitchen and bathroom worked . We did report.
Wi fi was poor due to local problems. Did have engineers trying to repair nearby .
It is a top end price rental and well equipped but lack of cleaning products and toilet rolls or shower gel lets it down.
I had a big problem with deposit Payment and payment collection company told me they had problems with some Visa cards. Bloom stays did not know this and I forwarded the e mail . Poor communication and a worry for me as a customer with multiple tries on my card .
This was stressful that's why I gave a poor customer service rating . Also I had to ring to get this refunded no one rang me .
Lindsay Pardoe | 06 May 2022
Stunning Dungeness 4.8/5
Incredible place. Our first visit to Dungeness and the Fog Signal Building - brilliantly designed, simple, warm, cosy and ever changing views of the stunning Dungeness skies. Loved the windows positioned to capture features like the Lighthouse or Coastguard Lookout. Comfy bed, huge bath, great log burner. Explored the windy coastline and enjoyed Snack Shack fresh fish. Blooms were great in extending check in / check out time. Hope to come again ! Thank you !
Sarah Bartlett | 15 March 2022
Ugly outside, beautiful inside 4.5/5
Our second stay in one of these unique buildings at Dungeness. Bright, comfortable and very relaxing, wished wed booked a longer stay.
Diane Navara | 24 January 2022
A great holiday in a scenic location 4.8/5
A great trip away. Beautiful location. Can't wait to return soon.
The fog signal building had everything you needed although it could benefit from a TV. Lovely surrounding views and tucked away from everyone. If you like privacy, this is the place to book.
Hannah Mills | 09 November 2021
A wonderful atmospheric stay 4.7/5
We had a fantastic stay at the Fog Signal building, it was a really amazing building in a great location. The property was clean, the bed was comfy and the providing of starter logs was a nice touch. The kitchen was well equipped but we were unable to work the light and that marred the experience somewhat, especially as there was no note about it. Other than that, it was an amazing stay!
Cate Berry | 30 October 2021
Perfect escape 5/5
We couldnt have loved our stay at Fog Signal Building any more, it exceeded our expectations which were already high! Dungeness is the perfect place to escape to and I now couldnt imagine staying anywhere else. The location really is other worldly and the building itself is fascinating. Loved it, well definitely be returning.
Booking, communication and facilities all good too.
Claire Slack | 18 October 2021
7 days 4.5/5
An absolute gem. Stunning views, quirky and wonderful wildlife. Perfect for a couple. Close to pub too.
Guest | 18 October 2021
Fog Signal 3.7/5
We know Dungeness well and have stayed before at another venue. We had a wonderful holiday this time, the weather was perfect and the house and location was a major plus. The open plan and minimalist design with uninterrupted views was inspirational. One problem with simple design solutions, however, is that any blemish is obvious and the house is looking like it needs some TLC. Light switches that don't work, cracks in floor tiles and plaster and a glazed door that won't open will soon detract from the overall effect. When we pay a premium fee the expectations are high and details matter.
None of the above spoiled our holiday but they would make us think that we should perhaps try somewhere else when we inevitably return to Dungeness.
This review is not intended for publication, which is why we didn't make an entry in the book, but you did ask!
PS I would recommend the house but with reservations.
Barrie Page | 21 September 2021
A perfect place to while away time... 5/5
We had such a lovely stay at Fog Signal Station, an immaculate contemporary haven with pretty much 360 degree expansive views. The binoculars were a bonus, who knew watching container ships would be such fun! It was a truly relaxing place to spend a 28th anniversary. We loved the outdoor cinema at the Fish Hut too and exploring the local area. Dungeness in all it's moody glory did not disappoint.
Maya Sushila | 31 August 2021
Fog signal 4.8/5
Amazing location.Fog signal is well equipped and beautifully furnished.Missed having a washing machine.
Guest | 31 August 2021
Bliss!! 4/5
A little piece of Heaven!! Really hope to visit again sometime.
Many thanks for having us
Niamh&Claire x
Claire Osbourne | 26 August 2021
Quirky or Over Designed? 4.3/5
We have stayed at Dungeness many times, but this was a first for the Fog Signal Building. The re-design of what was a derelict site is interesting, but lacks some obvious features, such as windows that you can actually open, especially at night when it can get very warm and uncomfortable. The kitchen window opens, but can't be left ajar. The only one that can be safely left open is the bathroom window, which opens two ways and has a wooden grill on the exterior to prevent unauthorised access.
For some reason there are about 14 chairs in the property, plus a sofa! Bit of overkill for two occupants and gives the impression that it's become a spare chair depository. When we arrived, the main door, which leads into the kitchen, was unusable, as a key was jammed in it, so we had to use the alternative - a large door that was a bit difficult to shut and, strangely, had a sign on the inside saying 'do not open these doors'. The jammed key was removed at some point during our stay, but the kitchen door cannot be locked from the inside as the mechanism is broken and, judging by other comments, it seems to have been like that for a while. We were assured that no one could access the door from outside (there's no handle) but I'm not convinced and this really ought to be repaired.
The bathroom is quite unique with its wooden bath/shower and plunge pool, but it is not suitable for anyone with a disability, or who cannot climb over the strangely tall bath sides. Personally, I would rip out the baths and install a decent shower, thus turning it into a wet room, as it would likely make the site more accessible to a wider clientele.
The kitchen is adequate for a few days stay, but don't plan on cooking much more than relatively simple meals as the hob is tiny (two pan limit) as is the oven. There is a microwave instruction book in one of the drawers, but no microwave oven to be found - shame as it would have been useful.
During our stay we had an overnight storm - the resulting lightning display was quite amazing, but trying to sleep was a problem as the external shutters continuously banged against their retaining locks all night and the (low voltage?) lights would flicker on and off. We had to turn off one of the lamps at the plug as it decided to turn on randomly during the storm.
There is no television in the property. If you want to watch a programme in the evening you have to rely on the Apple computer, which really is unfit for purpose, being too small. You also have to have an iPlayer account which lets you view the news and re-runs of old series, or an Amazon / Netflix account to watch films, but even then you will probably encounter Wi-Fi lag and have to sit there as the blue circle of death rotates. For the price of the rental a TV is the very least one should expect.
Other than that, Dungeness lived up to it's usual charm, peace and quiet, which is what we came for.
John Nicholson | 05 August 2021
FOG SIGNAL BOX ADVENTURES 4.2/5
We had such a lovely break at the fog signal box. It really is an extraordinary place to stay. Super magical.
For future it would be nice if there had been loo paper [!] and a few more supplies for guests. When paying this amount per night, in comparison to other places, eg a small amount of milk/eggs/bread/butter - something that shows some thought for the guests who may have travelled a long way -this would be SUCH a nice touch! A welcome basket of nibbles, something...
The bed was comfy but the duvet was super old, very thin and scruffy. The bedding also - it had a rip on one side. Feels like it needs an upgrade comfort and quality wise.
The bathroom although amazing was difficult to use - the bath tap was so slow and not very hot, so we didn't attempt to fill it. The shower was great though!
Finally, the front door didn't lock at all. despite trying many times. This definitely needs fixing!
Those are the small suggestions. Honestly it was so incredible to be in such a magical place. If the suggestions were taken on board then I would consider returning and recommending to others.
Jenny Dyson | 15 June 2021
May stay 4.3/5
A very enjoyable 3 night stay. The property was perfect for a couple wishing to relax and enjoy some peace and quiet. If the property had more comfortable outside chairs and not the low uncomfortable ones provided I would say it was a 5/5 otherwise I would say 4/5. The design of the building doesnt allow for windows in the bedroom area so the nights can feel a bit stuffy and hot.
Sarah Nortje | 09 June 2021
Beautifully designed and crafted holiday home in a stunning location. 4.8/5
We love this place and have been 4 times. Its aesthetic is modern architectural but also very comfortable. The views from floor to ceiling windows on every side are magnificent. To walk straight out into that strange and beautiful beach/desert landscape is a real treat as is to come back in and light a fire and settle in to the still calm of the property. The building itself is quirky and provides a landmark you can see from a long way off. We enjoy walking in the marsh area behind the beach where there is a lake and bird sanctuary. Will definitely be back again.
Stephania Minici | 05 June 2021
Atmospheric escape 4.8/5
Beautiful bolthole in the wilds of Dungeness. Super stylish yet cosy, the Fog Signal Building is an idyllic escape to immerse yourself in the elements and soak up nature. A wonderful spot for four-legged friends - our dog loved it as much as we did.
Thanks a million to the lovely team at Bloom Stays for the fantastic support!
Bronwyn Boyle | 29 May 2021
