Dog-friendly Essex

Located in the quaint village of Birch, these semi-detached, cosy cottages (31049 and 31050) have been built with the purpose of a holiday home in mind. Adjacent to the owner’s home, both properties comfortably sleep 2 guests with the option of extra guests with the sofa bed in the living space. Wood burners give a warm and welcoming feel to the cottages which have a contemporary theme throughout. It is a good base for exploring Essex and Suffolk, birdwatching on the nearby nature reserves, sea angling from Mersea Island, or just enjoying the local beaches and countryside. Close to Colchester, Britain’s oldest recorded town with a castle, museums, art gallery, many Roman remains, a good shopping centre, Colchester Zoo and a mainline rail link to London (40 minutes). Mersea Island is 8 miles away for its locally caught fish and oysters, as well as its sailing and beaches. Within easy driving distance are the popular sightseeing destinations of Flatford Mill, Lavenham, Finchingfield and Kersey. Shop 4 miles, real ale pub serving food 300 yards.

A contemporary, first-floor apartment overlooking the sea in Harwich, Essex. Open-plan living. Close to beach and amenities. Bedroom with en-suite. Clacton-on-Sea 15.9 miles; Colchester 18.9 miles.

Nestling within 3 acres of grounds, abundant with wildlife, these holiday cottages enjoy far reaching views over rolling countryside. Fishing and boating can be enjoyed at the nearby lake. This is excellent walking and bird watching country and holiday makers will enjoy walks down to the creek. These old farm buildings have been converted, and are grouped around a courtyard, yet each retains individual privacy. The cottages with their mellow decor and quality furnishings, provide complete relaxation in this delightful corner of Essex. Dairy Cottage (ref 17977) has grab rails and a portable shower seat and Orchard Cottage (ref 17982) has grab rails and low worktops, making these properties perfect for if you are less mobile. This area is well regarded as Essex’s best kept secret with the interesting and popular small towns of Brightlingsea, Wivenhoe, Mersea, Clacton, Frinton and Walton-on-the-Naze, all within ½ hours drive. The town of Colchester is close by, famous for its cobbled streets, castle and zoo, with a wide variety of shops, pubs and restaurants. Further afield are Ipswich, Chelmsford and Felixstowe. Many picturesque villages and Constable country are close by, with Dedham, Manningtree, Nayland, Lavenham and Long Melford to name but a few. Other local pastimes include golf and horse riding. All properties are on the ground floor and have wheelchair access. Shop 500 yards, pub 2 miles.

Nestling within 3 acres of grounds, abundant with wildlife, these holiday cottages enjoy far reaching views over rolling countryside. Fishing and boating can be enjoyed at the nearby lake. This is excellent walking and bird watching country and holiday makers will enjoy walks down to the creek. These old farm buildings have been converted, and are grouped around a courtyard, yet each retains individual privacy. The cottages with their mellow decor and quality furnishings, provide complete relaxation in this delightful corner of Essex. Dairy Cottage (ref 17977) has grab rails and a portable shower seat and Orchard Cottage (ref 17982) has grab rails and low worktops, making these properties perfect for if you are less mobile. This area is well regarded as Essex’s best kept secret with the interesting and popular small towns of Brightlingsea, Wivenhoe, Mersea, Clacton, Frinton and Walton-on-the-Naze, all within ½ hours drive. The town of Colchester is close by, famous for its cobbled streets, castle and zoo, with a wide variety of shops, pubs and restaurants. Further afield are Ipswich, Chelmsford and Felixstowe. Many picturesque villages and Constable country are close by, with Dedham, Manningtree, Nayland, Lavenham and Long Melford to name but a few. Other local pastimes include golf and horse riding. All properties are on the ground floor and have wheelchair access. Shop 500 yards, pub 2 miles.

Delightful, detached coach house conversion within a short walk of the historic village of Sible Hedingham. Spacious open plan living accommodation with open fire, beams, boot room and large enclosed garden. Halstead 4 miles.

Bring the whole family to this relaxing home ideal for exploring the Suffolk countryside. Sleeping nine guests across five bedrooms. Saskia’s Place is a stylish, comfortable holiday home, located in the village of Brantham.
There is also a cloakroom, shower room, kitchen, dining room and a sitting room with a gas fire and panoramic views of the countryside and river stour. There is a large, enclosed garden, featuring a large hot tub and outdoor seating area, as well as off-road parking for two cars.
Saskia’s Place is the perfect location for an indulgent escape to Suffolk. Brantham village has a small village shop which is open daily. Larger supermarkets and shops can be found in Manningtree, Ipswich, and Colchester. A few minutes’ walk from the cottage is the Brantham Bull pub, an inn dating from the 16th century.
Jimmy’s Farm, owned and run by Jamie Oliver’s friend Jimmy Doherty, is off the A137 to Ipswich at Wherstead. You can take a trip to Alton Water, a large reservoir, with nature trails, cycle hire, sailing and footpaths.
There are several attractions in the towns of Ipswich and Colchester, including a Norman Castle, Roman ruins, and a zoo, while historic Ipswich is home to the historic Christchurch Mansion, as well as a newly revitalized waterfront. For security purposes the owner has CCTV installed covering the exterior of the property.
No single sex groups, hen or stag parties permitted.

The houseboat is moored within the Sail Lofts own moorings consisting of sailing yachts, motorboats and barges and is sited just a short distance along from the hugely popular Maldon Quay on the River Blackwater. This coastal retreat invites you to experience a unique and enchanting holiday escape on the charming houseboat which offers the perfect blend of cosy comforts and breathtaking water views of passing boats, or at low water, quietly watching and listening to water birds feeding close by, creating an unforgettable getaway that will soothe your soul.
As you step aboard the lovingly refurbished barge, you will be welcomed by the wood burner and the tasteful furnishings all thoughtfully designed to accommodate up to four guests, making it an ideal choice for couples, families or friends seeking a tranquil riverside escape. The heart of the barge is a spacious living area, complete with a comfortable sofa and a dining space where you can relish a meal or simply gaze out at the ever- changing tides. The bedroom with its comfortable kingsize bed ensures a peaceful night’s rest regardless of the tides rising or retreating in quiet peace. The bathroom has a good shower over a small hip bath, ideal for soaking tired toes after a day’s sightseeing, or just for a refreshing shower. Unwind in front of the wood burner allowing the warmth and dancing flames to create an inviting atmosphere on chilly evenings with your favourite tipple, perfect for a romantic evening, chatting over your adventures from the day.
Step outside onto your private deck to be captivated by the ever-changing panorama on the river or simply enjoy the serenity. Maldon is renowned for its maritime heritage and offers a charming array of shops, cafés and restaurants, all a short stroll away. This quintessential English town has much to offer, including traditional pubs and ancient architecture. Stroll along on the quay to watch the famous Thames sailing barges continue on to visit Maldon Promenade Park or take a scenic boat trip along the river Blackwater past Northey and Osea Islands. There are plenty of walks along the Blackwater where you will see beautiful creeks and wildlife. Then the Combined Military Museum or Museum of Power are very interesting places to visit or take a walk or bike ride to Heybridge basin with the sea lock entrance to the Chelmer & Blackwater Navigation Canal.
Cos I Can offers a true escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life promising an unforgettable experience and can be booked together with The Sail Loft (UK45571) to accommodate up to 8 guests.