A remarkable seaside property featuring access to a secret, padlocked tunnel that served as inspiration for John Buchan's classic novel The Thirty-Nine Steps has been listed for sale at £2.25 million.
Property Overview
The contemporary residence, named Seaview, is located on the prestigious North Foreland Estate in Broadstairs, Kent. It sits approximately 200 yards from a private beach, which is accessible only through an underground tunnel and staircase—a privilege reserved for a small group of local key holders.
Historical Significance
It is believed that author John Buchan, while convalescing at a home on the estate during the summer of 1914, began writing a novel to alleviate his boredom. The clifftop house where he stayed with his family had steps leading down to the beach, which directly inspired the story's famous staircase. Additionally, reports of a German spy captured at North Foreland—signalling to a U-boat just days before Buchan's arrival—provided further inspiration for the plot.
Modern Amenities
Built six years ago by a property developer for his own family, Seaview boasts high-end features including air conditioning, remote control blinds, and frameless windows and glass doors. The home spans 3,912 square feet across three floors.
- Ground floor: Entrance hall leading to an open-plan kitchen, dining, and family room; lounge; boot room; and utility area.
- First floor: Master bedroom with large en suite and dressing room; two additional en suite bedrooms.
- Top floor: Fourth bedroom with en suite; sitting room; and a roof terrace.
Outdoor amenities include a heated swimming pool, an outdoor kitchen, and a fireplace for entertaining. The property also features an electric gate, security system, and a large double garage with an electric car charging point.
Private Beach Access
The private beach for North Foreland residents is just a few minutes' walk away, accessed via the famous steps and tunnel. While the beach can be reached by the public from neighbouring bays, it is only accessible at low tide. It sits between Joss Bay and Stone Bay, beneath impressive chalk cliffs.
The house is also conveniently located near the renowned North Foreland golf course.
Seller's Comments
The owner, who is selling to embark on a new project, said: "We were delighted to have the opportunity to create this unique and contemporary property to the highest standard, and it has been a wonderful family home. We thought about every detail, even ensuring the property was on mains drainage, unlike many others on the estate. The location is ideal—quiet, peaceful, and safe, with entry bollards and CCTV. As part of the North Foreland Estate, we are key holders to its private beach, accessed via steps and a padlocked tunnel through the cliffs."
Agent's Remarks
Fine & Country, the selling agents, commented: "No expense has been spared and no detail overlooked in the construction of this magnificent seaside residence. It is located in a prime position on the prestigious North Foreland Estate in Broadstairs, offering superb sea views and the ultimate experience in modern contemporary living—whether as a permanent home or a stunning holiday retreat."
The Original Steps
In Buchan's time, there were 78 wooden steps. The reason for reducing the number to 39 in the novel remains uncertain; one theory suggests a friend recommended halving the number for better effect, while another posits it was Buchan's 39th birthday during his stay in Broadstairs. During the 1940s, the steps were replaced with concrete ones—100 steps zigzagging through several tunnel sections. A carpenter used the original wood to craft three sets of bookends, each with a silver plaque inscribed "made from one of the original 39 steps," given to the owner of St Cuby (where Buchan stayed), Alfred Hitchcock (who directed the first film adaptation in 1935), and Buchan's family.
