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Spacious barn conversion for two guests
Situated on a working farm
A good size lounge
Comfortable sofas in front of the gas flame effect fire
Cosy with the gas flame effect fire
A warm welcome awaits
Open plan kitchen
Exposed brick chimney and beams add character
A well equipped kitchen
Spacious open plan kitchen, dining and lounge area
Welcoming entrance
Comfortable sofa bed
Cloakroom
En-suite shower room
King size bedroom
Enjoy a spot to eat outside
An ideal rural location
The path to the fields
Fantastic walks around the farm for two legs and four
Enjoy a country walk on a frosty morning
The farm on a winters day
Oak tree view
Pony & Chicken
The pond
Horses in the field
The well-being centre on site
1 / 26  Spacious barn conversion for two guests
2 / 26  Situated on a working farm
3 / 26  A good size lounge
4 / 26  Comfortable sofas in front of the gas flame effect fire
5 / 26  Cosy with the gas flame effect fire
6 / 26  A warm welcome awaits
7 / 26  Open plan kitchen
8 / 26  Exposed brick chimney and beams add character
9 / 26  A well equipped kitchen
10 / 26  Spacious open plan kitchen, dining and lounge area
11 / 26  Welcoming entrance
12 / 26  Comfortable sofa bed
13 / 26  Cloakroom
14 / 26  En-suite shower room
15 / 26  King size bedroom
16 / 26  Enjoy a spot to eat outside
17 / 26  An ideal rural location
18 / 26  The path to the fields
19 / 26  Fantastic walks around the farm for two legs and four
20 / 26  Enjoy a country walk on a frosty morning
21 / 26  The farm on a winters day
22 / 26  Oak tree view
23 / 26  Pony & Chicken
24 / 26  The pond
25 / 26  Horses in the field
26 / 26  The well-being centre on site

The Herdsman

Colchester (8mls SW), Essex
holidaycottages.co.uk logo

This property is managed by holidaycottages.co.uk info_outline

Sleeps 2
Bedrooms 1
Bathrooms 1
Change Fri
Dogs welcome 3
4 star
Downstairs bedroom
Downstairs bathroom
Enclosed garden / patio
Internet access
Working farm
Pub nearby
Romantic
Parking on site / nearby
Decorated for Christmas
Towels included
Travel cot available
Highchair available
12 more

At a glance

  • Spacious barn conversion offering an excellent retreat for a country getaway
  • Choice of  walks from the doorstep through the scenic countryside
  • Explore the wool towns and villages of Constable Country and the coastal sights at nearby Mersea Island  
Property code: 58576

Set amongst acres of rolling countryside, the farm on which the barn is situated, offers additional activities such as complimentary therapies and classes on the doorstep. Those wishing to find scenic footpaths or cycle tracks need not venture far with local woods and for day trips, why not take a short drive to Mersea Island with locally caught seafood, sailing and beaches or a boat charter from Maldon. Alternatively, Colchester is widely regarded as Britain’s oldest town, with a history extending back to Roman times evident when wandering the quaint cobbled streets with independent shops. Other popular sightseeing destinations in the area include National Trust properties, Flatford and Bourne Mill and the highly renowned Colchester Zoo. The train station at Kelvedon gives you direct access into London for a days sightseeing.

Upon entering this charming cottage, guests will find a useful porch area for dropping off shoes or wiping muddy paws before stepping into the spacious open-plan lounge/kitchen/diner. With a mixture of exposed brick walls, vaulted ceilings and quirky windows the character of this barn has not been lost and the open-plan nature provides a real sense of space. The two lounge areas provide a great place to relax and unwind with comfortable seating and Smart TV/DVD to catch up on any must see programmes. The wood burner effect gas fire provides a focal point for the room as well as taking the chill off any evening. The kitchen is well-equipped and provides everything required to rustle up anything from an evening meal to a light snack, with electric oven and hob, microwave and fridge/freezer, there is also a dining table and chairs. Also, for the guest’s convenience a washing machine is located in the kitchen. The generously sized bedroom features a king-size bed to ensure a peaceful night’s rest with walk-in wardrobe and en-suite shower room with shower and WC, tastefully tiled from floor to ceiling. Finishing the accommodation is a separate WC.

For those that wish to enjoy a spot of al fresco dining, the garden offers a fine place to enjoy both the charcoal BBQ and garden furniture, offering an enclosed garden area and a patio area. There is off-road parking for two cars. Guests are also welcome to explore the rest of the farm which undulates over 20 acres and has some fantastic views to enjoy.

  • 1 bedroom - king-size
  • 1 en-suite shower room and 1 separate WC
  • Electric oven and hob, microwave, fridge/freezer and washing machine
  • Wi-Fi
  • 3 dogs welcome (Please advise the owner if large breed dogs)
  • Dog sitting maybe available by prior arrangement with the owner
  • Shop 2 miles and pub within walking distance
  • This property will be decorated for Christmas
  • Arrival: 16:00 onwards
  • Departure: before 10:00, unless otherwise stated in your arrival details
  • 3 dogs allowed. Dogs are charged at £20 each per full or part week
  • There is an Accidental Damage Deposit of £150 when booking at this property, however this may be waived for £20. We’ll provide more details about this when booking your holiday.

Carol Thompson

This property is personally managed by Carol.

Reviews

From guests that have stayed at the property.

Based on 24 guest ratings

Overall cleanliness
Overall cleanliness 4.1 starsOverall cleanliness 4.1 starsOverall cleanliness 4.1 starsOverall cleanliness 4.1 starsOverall cleanliness 4.1 stars4.1
Overall equipment
Overall equipment 4.4 starsOverall equipment 4.4 starsOverall equipment 4.4 starsOverall equipment 4.4 starsOverall equipment 4.4 stars4.4
Overall comfort
Overall comfort 4.7 starsOverall comfort 4.7 starsOverall comfort 4.7 starsOverall comfort 4.7 starsOverall comfort 4.7 stars4.7
Overall location
Overall location 4.7 starsOverall location 4.7 starsOverall location 4.7 starsOverall location 4.7 starsOverall location 4.7 stars4.7

Reviewed by Robert 11th October 2024

Guest rating 2.8 starsGuest rating 2.8 starsGuest rating 2.8 starsGuest rating 2.8 starsGuest rating 2.8 stars

Property spacious and comfortable

Reviewed by Patricia 27th September 2024

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

The Herdsman was lovely. It was very comfortable and well equipped. We had a very relaxing stay. We all enjoyed walking round the farm and seeing the beautiful animals. Especially the gorgeous dogs! Jane was welcoming and very helpful. Overall our stay was excellent.

Reviewed by Stephen 8th September 2024

Guest rating 3.4 starsGuest rating 3.4 starsGuest rating 3.4 starsGuest rating 3.4 starsGuest rating 3.4 stars

Reviewed by Warren 23rd August 2024

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

We stayed at the herdsmen for 3 nights on the 23rd August.what an amazing place.jane and steve were lovely including there dogs.lovely and peaceful.beautiful walks.the properly itself was absolutely stunning.comfy bed.everything you need in a property was there..Great place to wind down after a long week..we recommend this place to anybody. Will deRead morefinitely be going back.love it .great hosts.. thankyou so much for a great stay x Hide

Reviewed by Robin 26th July 2024

Guest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 stars

The cottage facilities were excellent and beyond our expectations. Our dogs were made very welcome and there was a superb enclosed walking area. Highly recommend for a relaxing and comfortable break with friendly owners.

Reviewed by John 21st June 2024

Guest rating 4 starsGuest rating 4 starsGuest rating 4 starsGuest rating 4 starsGuest rating 4 stars

Very nice stay unfortunately shortened by family emergency. Loved the tour of the fields that the dog took us on. He knew what he was doing. Was a nice relaxing rest. We loved the tranquillity and Tiptree is not too far away. Would recommend a stay to anyone.

Reviewed by Kevin 9th June 2024

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

We had a fantastic four-night stay. The barn is spacious, comfortable and well equipped - a home from home. Our five-month old puppy loved his time here and settled in immediately. Every morning we enjoyed walking round the farm and our puppy was able to run around safely. Jane and Steve were perfect hosts and we mustnt forget to mention Barley andRead more Jack, the friendly golden retrievers, that accompanied us on our walks round the farm. We look forward to returning to The Herdsman. Hide

Reviewed by Sue 31st May 2024

Guest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 stars

The Herdsman at Oak Farm is THE perfect place to de-stress and relax. It is THE MOST dog friendly place weve ever stayed at. Unlike some of the other cottages weve stayed at that present you with a list of doggy donts when you arrive, Jane and Steve (and their dogs!) always make sure our pooch has the same chilled and relaxing break that we get wheRead moren we visit. So far, weve been to stay 4 times at The Herdsman and intend coming back for many more visits. Hide

Reviewed by Sally 19th May 2024

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

A beautifully quiet relaxing place. The animals are so friendly, also the whole retreat is dog friendly and the accommodation stunning. Everything you need is there right down to DVDs and board games for wet weather. It was lovely to sit out in the garden area in the sun with the dogs knowing they were safe and secure.

Reviewed by Joanne 15th April 2024

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

This was our first holiday with our dog, and it was fabulous. There is an enclosed outside area, and the owner is super dog friendly. The cottage is luxurious. We are planning our next visit already.

Reviewed by Ian 8th April 2024

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

It was a lovely cottage in a converted barn. Actually much larger than it looked in some of the pictures, but still with the feel of a cosy cottage. The location was perfect, out in the country (stars are amazing on a clear night), but close enough to amenities, shops, restaurants to get out and about. Hosts were friendly, polite, and approachable,Read more but not overbearing at all; perfect all round. We have family in the area, and this property will be top of the list next time we visit. Hide

Reviewed by Gill 15th September 2023

Guest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 stars

Well equipped and spacious property, The beds and chairs were very comfortable and the bathroom was very good.

Reviewed by Natasha 9th September 2023

Guest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 stars

Very peaceful,and secure for dogs off the lead. Lovely walks around the farm.

Reviewed by Donna 4th August 2023

Guest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 stars

Third visit, had a lovely time, cottage is very spacious and lovely to wander in too. Kitchen is well equipped, everything you could need. I do move a chair to the window rather than sit in the lounge area, so that I can enjoy the garden even when there's a spate of August weather . My cat comes with me and thinks it's brilliant too.

Reviewed by Sharon 28th July 2023

Guest rating 3.6 starsGuest rating 3.6 starsGuest rating 3.6 starsGuest rating 3.6 starsGuest rating 3.6 stars

a wonderful place to stay with so much natural beauty all around. The property is very well appointed and spacious.

Reviewed by David 15th July 2023

Guest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 stars

Perfect for a relaxing break such a homely lodge. Beautiful surroundings and perfect for the furr babies. Hearing the owls snore, watching the rabbits and a horse or two to pet. Beaches nearby, take aways if you don't want to cook. We loved it so much we have booked to go back.

Reviewed by Ron 10th July 2023

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Very Spacious, ideal for dog owners

Reviewed by John 30th June 2023

Guest rating 3.2 starsGuest rating 3.2 starsGuest rating 3.2 starsGuest rating 3.2 starsGuest rating 3.2 stars

We had a good break. Lovely location. Needs a bit more care and attention before people arrive but we managed. We would still recommend this place to others.

Reviewed by Andy 23rd June 2023

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Cottage is ideally situated in the country side, but is within easy reach of everything. It was lovely and quiet with the enclosed garden which was the perfect place to sit and relax with a bottle of wine. Jane & Steve were the perfect hosts and could not do enough for you. We were were introduced to all the horses and all the other animals. The twRead moreo dogs would visit us every day. The cottage is spotless throughout and we would not hesitate to return. Hide

Reviewed by jane 9th June 2023

Guest rating 4 starsGuest rating 4 starsGuest rating 4 starsGuest rating 4 starsGuest rating 4 stars

Reviewed by Sue 2nd June 2023

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Our third visit to The Herdsman and weve already planned visit number 4. If youre looking for The Best dog friendly break, this is it! The converted barn is gorgeous, as well as being as eco friendly as the owners, Jane and Steve, can manage. We use our stay to visit family, but they all want to come at visit us at The Herdsman because it is SO beaRead moreutiful and peaceful. The barn comes complete with additional doggy companions, Barley and Jack, who make your stay even more delightful. Hide

Reviewed by MERLE 10th May 2023

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Very comfortable cottage and just to place to go and unwind, so peaceful, watching the swallows and talking to the horses.

Reviewed by Angela 14th April 2023

Guest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 stars

If you want peace and quiet come here. Fantastic grounds for walking, dogs loved it. Very comfy bed.

Reviewed by Jill 3rd March 2023

Guest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 stars

Really enjoyed our stay in the Herdsman. Beautifully renovated in a superb location.

22 more
Spacious barn conversion for two guests
Situated on a working farm
A good size lounge
Comfortable sofas in front of the gas flame effect fire
Cosy with the gas flame effect fire
A warm welcome awaits
Open plan kitchen
Exposed brick chimney and beams add character
A well equipped kitchen
Spacious open plan kitchen, dining and lounge area
Welcoming entrance
Show 14 moreComfortable sofa bed

Location

Map
Note: As the postcode is used to identify the general area of the property, it may not always reflect its precise location, therefore please only use this map as a guide.
The Travel Chapter Limited trading as Farm Holidays is an appointed representative of ITC Compliance Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (their registration number is 313486) and which is permitted to advise on and arrange general insurance contracts as an intermediary.
The Travel Chapter Limited trading as Farm Holidays | The Travel Chapter Limited is registered in England and Wales. | Registered office Travel Chapter House Gammaton Road Bideford EX39 4DF Company No. 02431506 | VAT reg: 143053210.