Twentieth Century B&B in Birchington-on-Sea, England

Twentieth Century B&B has four uniquely decorated rooms, each based on a 20th-century figure such as Amy Johnson, David Bowie, Tudor Gates, or Baron and Lady Carson. Every room contains handpicked decor and period furniture that directly reflects the story of its namesake, from a 1970s Bowie-themed room with original items to an aviator-inspired balcony room. Guests receive a guided tour of the house and learn the history behind each piece, including a life-size photo of David Bowie mounted inside the shower.

Breakfast is cooked fresh to order using local ingredients, with options ranging from a full English to smoked salmon with scrambled eggs and vegan alternatives. The menu includes speciality items such as duck eggs upon request, and the hosts accommodate gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan diets with advance notice. Each breakfast is served at a private time slot so only one couple or group occupies the dining room at a time.

Minnis Bay beach is a three-minute walk from the B&B and offers a Blue Flag award-winning coastline with a café and a pub serving food. The property sits on a quiet street with free off-street parking and is a ten-minute walk from Birchington-on-Sea train station. Trains run frequently to Margate (two stops), Broadstairs, Whitstable, and Canterbury Cathedral.

Kat and Spencer, the owners, provide personalised recommendations for nearby attractions, including the Powell-Cotton Museum and Quex Park, and offer unique tours related to cultural icons like David Bowie. They share detailed knowledge of the house's art deco architecture and its 20th-century history, giving guests a guided tour of all four rooms upon request. The hosts also engage with guests during breakfast to suggest local walks, cycle routes, and sunset spots at Minnis Bay.

The property has a garden with outdoor seating, a private sun terrace in the Baron & Lady Carson suite, and balconies in three of the four rooms. Free off-street parking is available, and the B&B supports recycling and sources sustainable food products from local suppliers. Complementary amenities include board games, puzzles, and packed lunches for day trips.

Rooms: Four themed rooms based on 20th-century figures

Breakfast: Private dining slot with local ingredients and dietary customisation

Location: Three-minute walk to Minnis Bay Blue Flag beach

Transport: Ten-minute walk to train station with direct links to Margate

Hosts: Guided house tours and David Bowie cultural tours

Amenities: Free off-street parking, garden, and eco-friendly practices