World's Oldest Bungalow Sees Price Drop Again After Four Years on Market

It was constructed while he ruled. Queen Victoria offering breathtaking unobstructed seaside vistas.

However, the so-called "world's oldest" bungalow, dating from the 1870s, has remained unsold on the market for four years and has recently had its price reduced once more.

The seven-bedroom home in Birchington, Kent, is currently listed for £1.25 million, a reduction from the previous price of £2 million set in 2021.

In 2023, the property's owner initially reduced the price to £1.5 million.

It was designated as Grade II listed in June 1986 and according to Historic England, it stands as the sole remaining instance of the initial batch of bungalows constructed in the United Kingdom.

John Taylor, the designer behind this structure, was responsible for crafting Britain’s earliest modern-style bungalows. He constructed these buildings in Kent during the period from 1869 to 1870.

Taylor is renowned for his work in designing railway stations along the London, Chatham and Dover line.

The word 'bungalow,' which means 'a house styled after Bengal,' came from the Bengali area of India.

Famed Victorian physician Dr. Erasmus Wilson, who purchased the initial four of Taylor's cottages, was one of those who supported naming it after him.

Historic England suggests that he mentioned, "It appears that the concept of bungalows greatly captivates people's imaginations."

'Their novelty lies in their charm, attractiveness, and they excel in terms of hygiene. For families seeking the finest hygienic living space, a bungalow stands out as ideal.'

It is claimed that Wilson thought the sea air at Birchington was superior compared to other coastal areas in Britain.

Birchington, a village in Kent, sits along the northern coast of Thanet and enjoys good connections to nearby coastal towns via buses, trains, and roads. It also boasts a main line connection to London for those commuting into the city.

Situated on a cliff edge, the property features a 'Manston' room, which serves as a bar perfect for hosting gatherings.

Additionally, it features a spacious hallway nearly 60 feet long along with a sizable back garden that offers unobstructed sea views.

The description for the oldest authentic bungalow mentions that it comes with a completely equipped kitchen featuring an Aga along with ample storage space. Additionally, there’s a distinct utility room and an L-shaped garage included.

In addition to a separate bathroom and toilet, two of the bedrooms come with ensuites. The property also offers direct access to the promenade beneath the bungalow via a staircase located in the garden; this can be restored by the purchaser.

The 'Tower' room can be converted into a home office when necessary, and the property includes an annex featuring a bedroom equipped with a shower and toilet, along with a combined reception and dining area connected to a kitchen.

Ben Williams, an estate agent from Fresh Estates, commented: "Much of what is being constructed in this area, particularly in this region, consists of shoddy workmanship completed within a single weekend. These structures will not last for even 50 years, let alone 150."

'Something along these lines will definitely happen, 100%. They simply don't construct things as they did in the past.'

It's an opportunity to purchase a piece of history, though sadly, this appears to be becoming quite rare.

When you consider the square footage relative to what else you can obtain for that price in this area, it offers great value.

It's uncommon due to the dimensions of the land parcel.

You have direct access to the promenade below, allowing you to stroll from Birchington to Margate virtually along this same promenade.

It's a family house, yet with the addition of the annex, it has the potential to become a multigenerational dwelling.

You might prefer having your parents who use wheelchairs live in the same house as you due to its spaciousness.

'This space could easily accommodate a family along with your parents should you require it. This setup would likely appeal to such needs.'

'This item is so large that it requires either an entire family or several generations of people. Handling it can be quite challenging.'

He mentioned that the initial asking price for the property was considered too high, but he now thinks it has become quite affordable.

"When it first hit the market, he (the owner) was asking for £2.5 million," he explained.

I must admit I haven’t found it particularly appealing. The market conditions have hindered things. It’s been extremely difficult, truly very tough indeed.

'Now, considering what else I’m offering for sale at prices like £1 million, £1.5 million, and £1.75 million, this seems quite affordable.'

'The reason it’s so exclusive is that your potential buyers are significantly fewer. This property would likely attract an individual from overseas, perhaps someone with a deep appreciation for its historical significance as the world’s oldest bungalow.'

Read more