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A cosy cottage by the sea with sea food and dog walks on the doorstep.

Photo gallery for A cosy cottage by the sea with sea food and dog walks on the doorstep.

The front of 'The Cabin'. There is a private space for one car.
A Super King bed with two separate mattresses, one firm, one medium.
Looking out over the driveway with a wardrobe and small desk/dressing table.
The second bedroom has a King Sized bed with Tempura mattress and a bunk bed.
There's a small hanging cupboard and a couple of drawers.

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 6100 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Pet-friendly
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Air-conditioning

Explore the area

View map
West Mersea, ENG
  • Place, Mersea Island Museum
    ‪13 min walk‬
  • Place, Colchester Zoo
    ‪16 min drive‬
  • Place, University of Essex
    ‪20 min drive‬
  • Airport, London (STN-Stansted)
    ‪54 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

Bedroom 2

1 King Bed and 1 Single Bunk Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Garden
Dining area

About this property

A cosy cottage by the sea with sea food and dog walks on the doorstep.

'The Cabin' is a pretty, coastal, two bedroom cottage on West Mersea Island, Colchester, Essex, England. It is a few steps to the sea on a much sought after quiet lane. There are beautiful beach walks and bike rides. Stop on the way at Dukes Sea Food, Seafood at Dawn, The Coast Inn, White Hart or the infamous Company Shed for some fabulous fresh fish either to take home or eat in.

The cottage sleeps 6 in two good sized bedrooms, one with a Super King size bed and Tempura mattress & and one with a King size double and a bunk bed, only children on the top bunk please). Black out blinds in both rooms and so so quiet... Watch for the red squirrels in the garden in the early morning.

The bathroom is upstairs and has a large walk in shower cubicle.

The kitchen is well equipped and has bright seaside design which continues into the comfortable living room. It has a small enclosed private courtyard garden which is a sun trap in the summer and out of the wind during the colder months.

Well behaved dogs are welcome, there is a gate and hose in the back garden for muddy paws.

There are two sailing clubs close by, a Stand up Paddleboard and windsurfing rental shop and Fishing trips are available.

Coming to Mersea is a little like stepping back in time, well known for it's traditional sailing and fishing boats. There is a nature reserve on the other side of the island and a perfect spot for walking, birdwatching or photography. You can also have the use of the two man kayak for a small extra fee.

There is a smart TV with use of Netflix and Amazon Prime (payment per view).

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs less than 9 kg per pet (limit 2 pets total)
Sleep in the kitchen & are not allowed on sofas
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Smoking is allowed in the garden only, thank you.
No dogs upstairs or on the sofas please. They must sleep in the kitchen. Thank .you

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Long-term renters welcome
This property uses eco-friendly cleaning products
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit

Frequently asked questions

Is A cosy cottage by the sea with sea food and dog walks on the doorstep. pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total) with a maximum weight of up to 9 kg per pet.

How much does it cost to stay at A cosy cottage by the sea with sea food and dog walks on the doorstep.?

As of 4 Apr 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at A cosy cottage by the sea with sea food and dog walks on the doorstep. on 13 June 2026 start from AU$245, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking at A cosy cottage by the sea with sea food and dog walks on the doorstep.?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at A cosy cottage by the sea with sea food and dog walks on the doorstep.?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at A cosy cottage by the sea with sea food and dog walks on the doorstep.?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is A cosy cottage by the sea with sea food and dog walks on the doorstep. located?

This family-friendly Colchester cottage is located on the waterfront, within 3 mi (5 km) of Mersea Island Museum and Mersea Island Vineyard. Cudmore Grove Country Park and Abberton Reservoir are also within 9 miles (15 km).

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 29 out of 36 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 7 out of 36 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 36 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 36 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 36 reviews

9.4/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Louise p.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Clean and comfortable. Good location for walks along the coast.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Christine W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Best accommodation at west mersea so far

We have stayed on mersea island 4 times and this was by far the best accommodation. Very well equipped, great location, very cosy a perfect home from home.
Stayed 13 nights in Aug 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 24 Mar 2020
A lovely review, thank you, I’m so glad that you enjoyed it, it’s such a relaxing space, please come and stay again one day. Emma.
Verified

8/10 Good

nick e.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Trip to Mersea

The property is very nice and well equipped, beautiful location so close to the sea and front. Lovely walks with the family and dog.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

David H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely

Very comfortable base for our short trip to Mersea Island. Highly recommended.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 30 Nov 2024
Thank you for your review, I’m so glad you enjoyed your stay. Best wishes, Emma
Archival

10/10 Excellent

BEVERLEY E.

Seaside peace and quiet

Cute, seaside cottage with a nautical theme throughout. Much of our stay was conducted on foot, Mum, Dad, 8 year old and not quite 2! The Lane is quiet and relaxed. People of West Mersea are lovely; very friendly. The Cabin is comfortable and well equipped and so close to everything you may need. We did not want to leave!
Response from VrboOwner on 24 Mar 2020
Thank you for your review, I'm so glad you had a comfortable stay at The Cabin. It certainly is a peaceful place and a great escape for a few days. Come back soon!
Verified

8/10 Good

Lucy E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Location

Overall lovely house lots of lovely quirky bits, just a couple of grubby bits. Small garden quite overgrown making it hard to walk up the steps, the wooden bench outside starting to rot. None of this detracted from our enjoyment, obviously the great weather helped 😎
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 7 July 2022
Lucy, yes the garden has grown so much this spring, I’m sorry the lavender always ‘spreads’ over the steps but I don’t have the heart to cut it as I love the smell as you brush past… We know about the seat and have a carpenter booked to come and mend it. Thank you for staying and your honest review. Best, Emma
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Chris W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Short break

Clean, comfortable, stylish and spacious cottage. Excellent base for walking, cycling, kayaking and boat trips. Within less than five minutes walk there are plenty of lovely places to eat and watch the sunset. Turn right at the harbour for a wonderful walk along the water towards the Strood. The cottage itself is tucked away down a quiet and idyllic lane with easy parking if you come in two cars. Highly recommended this cottage and the Island. We have come away with wonderful memories and some fantastic photos! Have already recommended this cottage to friends and family. Thank you Emma for your attentive communication and comfortable stay. Chris and Gill
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 4 Oct 2020
Ahhh thank you so much, we love it when guests love what we love! Thank you for recommending The Cabin and maybe come back and stay again another time... best wishes, Emma & Gareth
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Sea, boats and seafood

The house was comfortable, and comprehensively appointed after along walk along the sea shore a pleasure to return to.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 22 May 2022
Thank you for your kind review, I’m so glad that you found the house comfortable. Emma
Verified

8/10 Good

karen E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Short break

I enjoyed the location of the cottage and it’s comfortable atmosphere
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 5 Jan 2022
Thank you for your second stay at ‘The Cabin’! Have a very happy new year.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Neil D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Tucked Away

Quiet position but easily accessed. Keen sailing family's genuine holiday home. Cosy feel but good size rooms with everything you'd need and thoughtful touches on arrival. Room for 6 but only 2 bedrooms, 2nd bedroom with 4 bunk beds. Private sun-trap courtyard.
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 12 Oct 2021
Thank you for staying and your kind review, I’m glad that you had an enjoyable stay. Best wishes, Emma
Verified

8/10 Good

Jennie B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

End of summer break

Lovely house. Very well equipped for adults and children. Brilliant location for the harbour. Part of a small group of modern houses but very quiet and relaxing. A couple of very minor cleaning issues easily resolved
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 18 Sept 2021
Thank you for staying. So glad that you enjoyed the house and the area and the lovely late summer sun, you were very lucky!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jude C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect location and accommodation

I grew up on Mersea and wanted to return with my teenagers. The cabin was perfect for us, both in location and layout. We loved its homely feel and would definitely recommend.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Fiona P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family catch up

We chose this location as it is close to family in Colchester who we hadn’t been able to see for many months. Having spent my childhood in Essex I can’t believe that I didn’t know about the island. I absolutely loved it and hope to return. The cottage is perfectly located and has everything we could have wanted. It feels like a home as soon as you arrive. We unfortunately managed to lock ourselves out one day and it was dealt with extremely promptly. Thank you
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jacqui B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Home from home by the sea

A real cosy cottage that feels light and airy, with every home comfort. Within walking distance of the coast and all the walks that the island has to offer. Great food in the locality, from traditoonsl fayre to seafood specialities. Loved our week.
Response from VrboOwner on 20 June 2021
Thank you for your kind review, we’re so glad that you had an enjoyable week with some amazing weather! please come again one day...
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Wayne M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family trip

Fantastic experience from start to finish! Arrived to radio on, windows open, fresh flowers and snacks, milk, butter etc. The Cabin is absolutely delightful, so welcoming and plenty of storage space so you can unpack, get rid of the suitcases and feel at home. Emma was very responsive if we had any questions although there was a comprehensive book with lots of info about the cabin and facilities in the surrounding area. Absolutely loved our 2 week stay and we will definitely be back. Thank you!
Stayed 17 nights in Feb 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Apr 2021
A pleasure to host you, thank you for staying and the best of luck with your house purchase. Maybe we’ll meet one day!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

karen E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Comfortable homely stay

I felt very comfortable staying here. I loved the location particularly. The house was well equipped and I liked the furnishing a lot
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 5 Jan 2021
Thank you for staying Karen, glad you enjoyed your stay, come again one day when you can travel more freely.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Adrian B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A week at the Cabin

We had a fantastic stay at "The Cabin" a real home from home. Very clean, well equipped, every we needed and more. Very dog friendly. The location is great loved walking down the lane to the water front.
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing house close to the sea

The pictures don’t do it justice. It’s a fully kitted out house with 2 bedrooms (1 kingsize, the other with 4 bunk beds), big kitchen, living room, bathroom and garden (where, if you’re lucky, you can see the red squirrels). It’s very close to the sea and all the local seafood places, plus a fair few pubs. Really enjoyed our stay and loved checking out the local area.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Amanda D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great little house by the sea

Lovely location, a stones throw to the waterfront, in a beautiful quaint lane. The house had everything we needed and the owner added extra homely touches too. It was cosy yet spacious at the same time. A real seaside vibe. We came with our dog and had some nice walks. We visited the vineyard on Mersea island and got some good wine too.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Nov 2020
Thank you for your kind review Amanda, we’re glad that you had a relaxing trip and enjoyed being in ‘The Cabin’.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jane M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cottage by the sea

The Cabin is a dear little cottage just a few yards up a quaint lane off the shore. It is light and airy, quiet and with beautiful, nautically-themed decor.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Keith H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely home from home

Like a tardis, bigger on the inside than expected. Cosy and well appointed. Will definitely stay again if available.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Judy Y.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fantastic find in West Mersea

We wanted to take our dogs away for the weekend , we were not disappointed. Lovely property a stones throw from the beach. The property had everything needed for a short break . Very clean and had a lovely homely feel to it .
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Cathy Y.

Perfect holiday house

This is the perfect place for a relaxing holiday. The house is so comfortable, well equipped, cosy and welcoming. Extra touches for dogs were much appreciated too. It's location is great - a couple of minutes from the waterfront for walks and seafood. We loved it and hope to return.
Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jonathan H.

Excellent

Met all our expectations great little cottage 2 adult 2 teenage girls room enough for all heating warm shower great
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2018
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Laura W.

Cosy Cottage

Perfect location with parking. Home-from-home comforts.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2018

About the host

Hosted by Emma Jordan

Host profile image
I was born on Mersea Island and moved away with my family when my father got a job in Kent where I still live. I married my Irish husband after meeting at a sailing event in Scotland and passed on my love of the island and sailing on the River Blackwater - he thinks that the water gets clearer every year he visits! We have three children who enjoy their holidays in different ways, dingy sailing, fishing and crabbing being at the top of the list as well as cycling (do bring bikes if you can, we try to park and cycle the whole time we're here). We have two dogs who love the beach and the sea wall, it's possible if you are keen walkers to walk around the whole island, it's 13 miles.

Why they chose this property

The Cabin is in the perfect location as it is on a very quiet Lane with minimal traffic with the sea lapping on to the road at the bottom at high tide. The Dabchicks Dinghy Club is also at the bottom of The Lane, the Yacht Club is 3 minutes walk.The Company Shed which is either eat in or take away seafood (3 minutes walk). The Coast Inn offering morning coffee and homemade cakes, lunches, afternoon cream teas or evening dinner (6 minutes walk). The Victory Inn has traditional pub food in a waterfront setting (8 mins walk), The Oyster Bar serves quality fish, shellfish and oysters (also 8 mins). There is also 'The Art Cafe' in the village which does a great breakfast and I believe lunches also, coffee and cake, this is a longer walk, probably 15 minutes? Tesco's Local is also 15 minutes walk although we usually cycle.

What makes this property unique

For a small fee you can have use of the two man kayak but please bring your own wetsuits and life jackets. Look out for the red squirrels in the garden in the early morning!

Languages:

English
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