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  • 2 guests

  • 1 bedroom

  • 1 bathroom

  • sq/ft

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Hidden away next to ancient woodland in rural Essex, this cabin is a British getaway that overflows with quirk and charm. Inside, classically styled furnishings, such as the tufted Chesterfield, oak dining table and the four-poster bed that's come straight out of a fairytale, rub shoulders with the eclectic animal portraits that dot the wall, the antler chandelier and antique-style gramophone — which actually works in case you're in the mood for a boogie. The copper rolltop bathtub that lies just next to the bed is another decadent touch that we can't help but salute. The home's exterior is full of pleasant surprises, too. When the weather's warm enough — and even when it's not — you can sit out in the home's hot tub, before drying off on one of the egg chairs next to the roaring fire pit. It's possible to hear the sounds of wildlife from the neighbouring forest, as well as the occasional roar from Colchester Zoo, which is less than ten minutes' drive from the home. Elsewhere in the local area, the huge Abberton Reservoir takes five minutes to reach in the car and offers spectacular birdwatching opportunities. The local village of Layer de la Haye, with its...


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What to expect


Highlights

Take a peaceful stroll through the ancient Needle Woods that lie just beyond the back gate

Take a peaceful stroll through the ancient Needle Woods that lie just beyond the back gate

Turn on the fireplace once the sun's gone down and play some music on the gramophone

Turn on the fireplace once the sun's gone down and play some music on the gramophone

Treat yourself to a relaxing soak in the resplendent copper bathtub

Treat yourself to a relaxing soak in the resplendent copper bathtub

Enjoy the relaxing location from the comfort of the hot tub

Enjoy the relaxing location from the comfort of the hot tub

Finish off the day cuddled up together next to the fire pit

Finish off the day cuddled up together next to the fire pit

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Home truths

    There's free off-road parking available on the premises

    The home is spread across a single level

About this stay


Amenities

Outdoor fireplace / firepit

Outdoor seating

Wi-fi

Parking available

Hot tub

Garden

Bedrooms & bathrooms

1 bedroom, 1 bed

1 bathroom

Local guide


About Dedham Vale

Taking a wooden clinker boat out onto the River Stour on a pleasant day has to be one of the most romantic English experiences you could picture – that is, until you bump into a bank as you glide backwards. Horse chestnut trees hang over the banks and meadows stretch out in either direction. The waterway is the focal point of Dedham Vale, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty that...

Explore the area

Local restaurants, cafes, museums, sites and activities, recommended by our community of hosts and travel experts

Dine at North Hill Noodle Bar

Dine at North Hill Noodle Bar

Relaxed modern restaurant serving delicious Chinese, Indonesian, Malaysian and Thai-inspired cuisine. Enjoy juicy BBQ ribs, flavourful North Hill Noodles, and more. Professional service and a great vibe.

15 min
Explore Colchester Castle's Rich History

Explore Colchester Castle's Rich History

Discover the fascinating history of Colchester Castle through interactive exhibits, cellar and Roman foundations tours. Suitable for history enthusiasts and families with older children. Don't miss the vault and roof tour for an extra £3!

18 min

Get around

Airport

London Stansted

1 hr 38 min

London Southend

1 hr 12 min

Rochester

1 hr 40 min

Train station

Colchester Town

16 min

Bus stop

Les Bois

3 min

Local shops & services

Convenience store

11 min

Cafe

8 min

Pharmacy

8 min

Points of interest

Beach

Cudmore Grove

27 min

Booking policies


House Rules

Children welcome (1-12 years)

Infants welcome (under 12 months)

No pets

No parties or events

No smoking

Good to know

Arrival from 16:00

Departure before 11:00

Wifi

No air con

Cancellation policy

  • Up until

    30

    days

    Cancel at least 30 days before your check-in date for a full refund.

  • Up until

    7

    days

    Cancel at least 7 days before your check-in date for a 50% refund.

  • Not eligible for a refund once your check-in date is under 7 days away.

Host


This home is managed by Emma

This home is managed directly by its owner who will be your point of contact before and during your stay. It's Emma's eye for design behind this quirky yet instantly comfortable space. She also has a wealth of experience in the hospitality industry, so is great at making guests feel welcome, too — the fact that she lives close by on the premises means she's always on hand in case of any questions.

This home is nominated for the Plum Guide Award.

  • Great hosts, not just great homes – We reject homes managed by hosts who don’t meet our standards of excellence.

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  • Every home scrutinised by experts, they have to meet our standards.
  • Hosts we knowHigh-quality hosting, with track records of high-quality hosting.
  • Impeccably clean, well maintained homes.
  • Peace of mind in the rare event your host cancels.
  • Rated ‘Excellent’ on Trustpilot, delivering exceptional service before, during and after your stay.