We bought The Old Engineer in 2013 as a renovation project. We created our dream family home and garden deep in the Kent countryside, surrounded by fields. The perfect location to bring up our three young boys, but still under an hour from central London for my husbands work.
As the boys started school I was looking for ways to earn money whilst being able to stay at home and garden – my great passion. I used everything I learnt from the design and renovation of our home, the beautiful rural surroundings and the peace and tranquillity we enjoy to create a little getaway haven for couples. I always tell guests that it’s exactly where I’d want to stay, a bit of a treat, a private space to recharge.
We’ve been open eight years. The time has flown and we never expected to be so popular. We’ve attracted lovely guests who are incredibly appreciative of our accommodation. The positive feedback we receive makes running The Old Engineer very rewarding. The complementary reviews we get certainly spur us on.
We hope you’ll have an opportunity to come and visit soon.
Best wishes
Jo (owner of The Old Engineer)
Here’s a small selection of our reviews over the years:
“Wow! What an amazing place to stay, we loved it, from the welcome pack in the “hidden” kitchen to the fresh flowers and the well stocked bathroom (just in case you’ve forgotten anything) lots of lovely little touches make this property the perfect place to stay. Jo is a friendly, helpful host with great recommendations for local places to eat and visit. Don’t hesitate, book it you won’t be disappointed.” Sarah, September 2022
“Extended stay around our son’s wedding at the garden’s. perfect location, perfect accommodation, calm, cozy, well equipped for getting wedding ready.
Jo even helped when I needed a flower bucket 🤣. recommended taxi’s for the wedding. Clever little kitchen, stupidly comfy bed.
Everything was spot on. Thank you.” Katherine, June 2026
“Our stay was a little oasis of peace and calm in the middle of the countryside. The space was well thought out and was very well equipped and spotlessly clean. Jo provided a fresh loaf, butter, milk and jams with coffee and tea which were very much appreciated. There was also an ample supply of toiletries, everything you’d need and more if you’d forgotten to bring something. A little private seating area outside, which looked onto the beautiful garden. Jo who was friendly, helpful and informative.
Thoroughly enjoyed our stay here, thank you.” Tracey, June 2025
“Jo’s place is perfect for a peaceful countryside escape! A stylish and comfortable studio, with lots of lovely touches and gorgeous countryside and garden views. It is well-stocked, with an incredibly comfy bed and was spotlessly clean. Based at the side of the house, it feels completely private; all you can hear is bird song. A delicious loaf of bread and jam for breakfast is provided. Jo is a lovely host and her dog Alice is a gentle giant. Would recommend to anyone wanting an escape to the country.” Laura, April 2018