It began life in 1920 as a beachside bathing station and for the last 22 years has been home to the National Coastwatch Institution, providing volunteers with a vital bird’s eye view over the North Sea.

But now the charity has vacated the building, estate agents say it offers a new occupier the chance to give the “iconic” site a fresh future - such as being turned into an Airbnb or cafe.

Located on East Cliff Parade in Herne Bay and housing a disused public toilet and shower facilities at ground level, the property is now being made available on a long lease.

Agents Wilbee & Sons says it has outstanding 180-degree sea and coastal views and offers “tremendous potential”.

The building was sold by Canterbury City Council in 2005 and has been in the hands of a private owner ever since, who now wishes to find a new occupier.

It is being offered with an 81-year lease for about £265,000 and “as seen”, meaning any new owner will have to clear out the contents and rubbish and refit as necessary.

But it does come fully connected for water and electricity and is not subject to any ground rent or additional service charges.

The National Coastwatch Institution (NCI) says it had to vacate the building due to “structural issues”.

But Peter Goodwin, who is manager of Wilbee & Sons, which is marketing the property, insists there are no issues of any significance.

“It’s an unusual property to market but obviously an iconic piece of the town’s history,” he said.

“In its heyday, it was something special and now could be put to a number of new uses, like a cafe or even an Airbnb, subject to planning permission.

“But, clearly, it may not be so appealing in the middle of winter.

“Already we have had quite a few inquiries so we are hopeful of finding an occupier and the building will have a new future.”

NCI bosses spoke of their “enormous regret” and “deep sadness” when confirming the permanent closure of the watch station last July.

The charity currently has around 60 stations which are manned by more than 2,600 volunteer watchkeepers around the British Isles.