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The Coloured Ryeland Retreat

Messing, near Colchester, Essex
Sleeps 2
Bedrooms 1
Bathrooms 1
Change Fri
Dogs welcome 1
4 star
Parking on site / nearby
Towels included
Shepherd hut
Glamping
Quirky
Romantic
Working farm
Hot Tub
Open fire / wood burner
Enclosed garden / patio
Downstairs bedroom
Downstairs bathroom
Pub nearby
13 more

At a glance

  • Unwind in the wood fired hot tub
  • A unique glamping experience with home comforts including a king size bed, kitchen, a cosy wood burner, and a TV
  • Peace and tranquillity in this idyllic location
Property code: OC-87423

Set amongst acres of glorious rolling countryside, the farm on which the shepherd’s hut is located offers activities such as complementary therapies and classes.  Those wishing to explore scenic footpaths or cycle tracks can head to the local woods. A little further afield, take a short drive to Mersea Island (13 miles) with locally caught seafood, beaches and sailing, or take a boat charter from Maldon (9 miles). Colchester, widely regarded as Britain’s oldest town, is just 10 miles away, with quaint cobbled streets and a host of independent shops as well as the famous Colchester Zoo. The train station at Kelvedon (2.5 miles away) gives you direct access to London for a day's sightseeing.

As you arrive at the owner’s property, park up and you will then be driven by electric buggy to your shepherd’s hut, where you can take in the tranquil and picturesque surroundings which you are free to explore. When you arrive at your hut, you will instantly see the amazing craftsmanship that has gone into constructing this fabulous holiday home. Heading, inside you have a fully functioning kitchen with an integrated hob and microwave, along with a three-day cooling box; if you need further chilled storage space or indeed need a freezer, then the owner has provided one close to their property which guests are more than welcome to use. You have a slide-out king size bed that has plenty of storage space underneath for any personal items, a wall-mounted TV and there is a shower along with a waterless WC.

Outside, you have a wood-fired hot tub to relax in and garden furniture where you can take in the fresh air, perhaps with a tea, coffee or maybe a glass of something chilled in hand. Of course, with the fully functioning kitchen, if you decide to prepare a hearty meal then you can even dine alfresco and be at one with nature. A BBQ/Grill is also provided. There is parking for two cars in the car park at the entrance and next to the owner’s property.

  • 1 bedroom - 1 king size
  • 1 shower room with WC
  •  Intergrated hob, microwave, super-insulated cool box (with extra fridge and freezer facilities available via the owner)
  • Wood burner with cook plate for authentic one-pot, off-grid cooking (first basket of logs provided)
  • TV
  • Outside space with garden furniture and gas BBQ/Grill
  • Wood-fired hot tub
  • Private off-road parking for 2 cars in farmyard
  • 1 small dog welcome
  • Luggage trolleys are provided for the short scenic walk to the site.
  • Shop 2 miles and pub within walking distance
  • Please note this property is powered by gas as well as an electric battery
  • Eco credentials include solar power, and a waterless composting toilet
  • Arrival: 16:00 onwards
  • Departure: before 10:00
  • 1 dog allowed. Additional charges may apply

Carol Thompson

This property is personally managed by Carol.

Reviews

From guests that have stayed at the property.

Based on 5 guest ratings

Overall cleanliness
Overall cleanliness 4.8 starsOverall cleanliness 4.8 starsOverall cleanliness 4.8 starsOverall cleanliness 4.8 starsOverall cleanliness 4.8 stars4.8
Overall equipment
Overall equipment 4.8 starsOverall equipment 4.8 starsOverall equipment 4.8 starsOverall equipment 4.8 starsOverall equipment 4.8 stars4.8
Overall comfort
Overall comfort 5 starsOverall comfort 5 starsOverall comfort 5 starsOverall comfort 5 starsOverall comfort 5 stars5
Overall location
Overall location 5 starsOverall location 5 starsOverall location 5 starsOverall location 5 starsOverall location 5 stars5

Reviewed by Steven 9th April 2026

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

Lovely and peaceful,hot tub was great as the weather was nice and warm,will be going again

Reviewed by Karen 17th October 2025

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

Amazing weekend break at the Shepherd's Hut! Cute and cosy and beautiful countryside surroundings. Host Jane was very helpful. Hut was warm and had everything we needed. The wood fired hot tub was a great way to relax! Short walk to the picturesque village of Messing where we had a lovely meal. Would highly recommend this for a relaxing chilled breRead moreak away. Came home feeling totally relaxed Hide

Reviewed by Ayse 13th September 2025

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

We have had a lovely stay. Jane, the landlord was so kind and helpful. This is a unique experience. We had a wonderful time. We cant wait to back! Surroundings were beautiful and it was extremely private.

Reviewed by Ryan 2nd August 2025

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

The land was beautiful and perfect for me and my new fianc the owners was absolutely brilliant would recommend to anyone looking for a lovely getaway

Reviewed by Julie 5th August 2024

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

I absolutely loved the shepherds hut. It was very comfortable, and had everything I needed for a great stay. Ill definitely be booking it again.

3 more
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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.
Farm Holidays is a trading name of The Travel Chapter Limited | 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.