Entire home

Sea Views at this Grade II Listed Cottage with Baby Grand Piano (Pet Friendly)

Photo gallery for Sea Views at this Grade II Listed Cottage with Baby Grand Piano (Pet Friendly)

Beach nearby, sun loungers
Beach nearby, sun loungers
Property grounds
Interior
Exterior detail

Reviews

9.4 out of 10

Exceptional

Entire home

3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 6115 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
    Parking available
  • Washer
    Washer
  • Barbecue grill
    Barbecue grill
  • Pet friendly
    Pet friendly
  • Outdoor Space
    Outdoor Space
  • Kitchen
    Kitchen

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Sea Views at this Grade II Listed Cottage with Baby Grand Piano (Pet Friendly)

This beautiful Grade II listed cottage built in 1600 boasts all of its original features, so its jam packed with history. At the same time the decor has been updated to allow a fresh, coastal feel but retaining the coziness of a low ceiling-ed, exposed beamed cottage.

If you are above 6ft 3" you will not fit into this cottage as its ceilings in the main living area are very low, but we feel it adds to its charm. The kitchen and master bedroom in contrast are later additions to the house and so have full height ceilings. This is a house that has evolved over the years and has a story to tell if only walls could talk!

With a fully equipped modern kitchen and bathrooms you will not have to suffer the inconveniences of period living but instead get a taste for the life of a fisherman that would have fished on the island hundreds of years ago, with all the modern day comforts!

The house has a large rear garden with beautiful views out towards the estuary and a small jetty where at high tide access can be gained to the water, for watersports. At the front there is a large driveway with parking for several cars.

The house is situated at the end of a long private driveway servicing just 5 houses all tucked away in the "Old City" part of the village also known as The Anchorage due to the Sailing/Yacht Clubs and Chandlers. This means that although the position is very secluded, quiet and peaceful you are never more than a few minutes walk from places to eat the lovely seafood on offer or drink in the local pubs. A few more minutes walk will take you to the centre of the village where you will find everything you need. With a top quality butchers, cafe's, post office, bank, library, shops and supermarkets, it means that once you have arrived, you'll never need to leave the Island again till it's time to go home!

Mersea Island is rapidly growing a reputation as a "foody haven", and just a few moments walk from Crabtree Cottage you will find the famous Company Shed. From this small "shed" by the waters edge you can eat freshly caught seafood moments out of the water. People trek from London to this unpretentious eatery each weekend to experience the fresh seafood on offer, its reputation is spreading so wide. There are plenty of other high quality, again unpretentious venues to eat the local seafood or other foody delights on offer, all accessed just a few minutes walk directly from the house. No need to take the car, just walk and have as many drinks as you like! Maybe sample each of the Mersea Island Breweries beers or Mersea Vineyard wines!

Please Note:-
- Upstairs there are two linked bedrooms, and no bathrooms, as these are all on the ground floor.
- Being a very old and quirky cottage the staircase to the upper floor is quite awkward for anyone with mobility issues.

Property manager

Vanessa Roots

Languages

English

Property amenities

Beach

  • Near the beach
  • Beach sun loungers

Internet

  • Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Onsite parking
  • Car not required

Kitchen

  • Refrigerator
  • Stovetop
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Dishwasher
  • Paper towels
  • Spices
  • Electric kettle
  • Cookware/dishes/utensils

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 3 bedrooms
  • Bed sheets provided

Bathrooms

  • 2 bathrooms
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Towels provided
  • Toilet paper
  • Hair dryer
  • Soap

Living spaces

  • Fireplace
  • Living room
  • Dining room
  • Wood stove

Entertainment

  • Smart TV
  • Stereo
  • Games
  • Books

Outdoor areas

  • Patio
  • Fenced yard
  • Barbecue grill
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture

Laundry

  • Washing machine and dryer
  • Near laundromat

Work spaces

  • Computer monitor
  • Desk

Comfort

  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • 2 total pets
  • Welcoming dogs only

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoke-free property

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

  • Near the sea
  • On the waterfront
  • In a rural location
  • Near a health or beauty spa
  • Near a hospital
  • Near a zoo
  • In a village

Things to do

  • Fitness facilities nearby
  • Marina nearby
  • Golf nearby
  • Ecotours nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Mountain biking nearby
  • Sailing nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Winery tours nearby
  • Cycling nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector installed (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector installed (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • Recycling
  • Local artist showcase
  • Unit size: 1238 sq ft (115 sq m)

Similar properties

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 3:00 PM
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Pets

Pets allowed
Service animals are welcome, and are exempt from fees
Welcoming dogs only
2 total pets
Note from host: By prior arrangement £50 fee applies.

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome
Note from host: At travellers own risk.

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
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a first aid kit and a deadbolt lock
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation

We should mention

A car is not required for transportation to and from this property

About the neighborhood

Map
West Mersea, Essex

What's nearby

  • Colchester Town Hall - 16 min drive - 15.9 km
  • Colchester Castle Park - 19 min drive - 17.4 km
  • Colchester Zoo - 19 min drive - 17.0 km
  • University of Essex - 20 min drive - 20.1 km
  • Layer Marney Tower - 21 min drive - 17.4 km

Getting around

  • Marks Tey Station - 21 min drive
  • London (SEN-Southend) - 72 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪The Layer Fox - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪Coastal Coffee - ‬14 min walk
  • ‪The Boathouse Bar & Restaurant - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪Donkey & Buskins - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪The Coast Inn - ‬9 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is Sea Views at this Grade II Listed Cottage with Baby Grand Piano (Pet Friendly) pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total).

What time is check-in at Sea Views at this Grade II Listed Cottage with Baby Grand Piano (Pet Friendly)?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Sea Views at this Grade II Listed Cottage with Baby Grand Piano (Pet Friendly)?

Check-out is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Sea Views at this Grade II Listed Cottage with Baby Grand Piano (Pet Friendly) located?

Situated on the waterfront, this cottage is 2.7 mi (4.4 km) from Mersea Island Vineyard and within 9 mi (15 km) of Cudmore Grove Country Park and Gosfield Lake Golf Club. Five Lakes Golf Club and Five Lakes Resort are also within 9 mi (15 km).

Sea Views at this Grade II Listed Cottage with Baby Grand Piano (Pet Friendly) Reviews

Reviews

9.4

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 77 out of 114 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 31 out of 114 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 5 out of 114 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 114 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 114 reviews" "

8.8/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

8/10 Good

carolyn s.

Liked: Cleanliness
Crabtree cottage
Very good Well equipped Maybe should be clearer that no bath/ toilet upstairs Enjoyed stay very much
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024

8/10 Good

Sandra H.

Second time
As this was the second time, first was 2 years ago, it felt alittle need to TLC. Felt tired needing a lick of paint and maybe change some of the ornaments that equally looked tired now. Overall it serviced its purpose seeing that beautiful view again and making me realise how much I love West Meresa. Overall it was
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Gill L.

Liked: Cleanliness
Lovely cottage in a great location!
Really enjoyed our stay in this lovely quirky cottage. Best equipped kitchen of any cottage I’ve ever stayed in - loved the welcome goodies too. Secure garden was perfect for the dogs to run around, and also for us to admire the views, especially as we had good weather. I drew the short straw and had the upstairs room - as described, the stairs are very narrow and steep, so probably not suitable for six footers! All in all a really lovely cottage in a great location.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Pauline D.

Mersea Mick
Didn’t know what to expect. Didn’t realise that we had to cross a causeway until we received the tide times via email. However it was not a problem. The cottage was quirky and only for short people…….ha ha ha The stay was lovely and village very nice, friendly people.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Linda J.

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful cottage in a lovely location
This is a property of such individuality and charm... certainly not for those who want a hot-tub and a 60" television, but a treat for anyone who loves the sense of a home that has been restored with great affection and attention to detail. The upper storey, sitting room and stairs are just as they were when the building was constructed, so there is definitely a need for the tall to watch their heads! Downstairs is a good-sized double bedroom with French doors onto the garden, and a very comfortable bed. There is a WC off the room, and a separate shower. A family bathroom on the ground floor also has a bath/shower. The sitting room is beautiful, and down a step is a kitchen which looks out over the estuary. We only had three days here, but enjoyed the sound of waders feeding on the river at low tide, and the lovely view. Both my husband and his grandson enjoyed playing the piano. Unfortunately, the neighbour was having some work done on his home, but was very apologetic about any noise/ issues. Mersea Island is quiet and has not been commercialised ...although there are some splendid places to eat fresh seafood ( The Duke was our favourite). There is a village centre with a Michelin starred restaurant, and a friendly community. There are plenty of places to purchase food and some enjoyable walks in East Mersea. A delight...
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Helen M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Lovely cottage with a beautiful view
Sunsets from the back garden looking over the water, can’t be beat. The cottage was lovely, private and historic. Very attentive host. A great home to stay in on Mersea Island.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Mersea revisited.
A really lovely little cottage in an idyllic location tucked away close to the creeks and marsh, quiet and ideal for walking our Working Cocker Spaniel with a dog proof garden he was very happy. Also coast, beach and village amenities all within walking distance and the island can still be circumnavigated on foot. Can highly recommend the now famous Company Shed, Sea Food at Dawn, and The Coast Inn for seafood and Mersea Barns out at East Mersea for breakfast etc, and fab homewear shop, also the newly revamped White Hart Inn in the centre of the village, now very smart with a Michelin Star, and the excellent Lotus Kitchen Chinese Take Away, still there after many years have passed! Also a must would be a boat trip around the creeks with the Lady Grace. Mersea had not lost its magic from memories of being a true ‘Mersea Native’ born and brought up on the island, much had changed but many parts still very much as remembered. Many thanks Vanessa.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024

6/10 Okay

Julia G.

Disliked: Cleanliness
Lots of postive things about property but very low ceilings strairs up to bedrooms very difficult
Nice property, good parking& good location for all amenities. Just low ceilings & staircase very difficult as low & steep around a corner & have to hold a rope. We didnt bring anything upstairs as worried to how to bring it down. I normally have tea in bed but this couldn't happen as it wouldn't have been safe so had to had up!! Garden fab & big. Wasn't clear all bathrooms downstairs. Wasn't as clean i would expect. Did enjoy but won't stay again
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jane N., UK

Liked: Cleanliness
Crabtree Cottage
We all loved the cosiness of Crabtree Cottage. The garden was great, particularly for the children & dog.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

KAREN W., Beverley, East Yorkshire

Liked: Cleanliness
Beside the sea at Mersea
The listing is very accurate, and the cottage is even nicer in real life than the photos suggest. It's a perfect stay if you like older, quirky properties and don't mind wonky floors and low ceilings - my husband is 6'2" but he managed to duck his head and had no problems! The cottage is very well equipped, especially in the kitchen, and we made good use of the piano as well. The outdoor area is quiet and full of birds - a perfect, peaceful getaway. We slept extremely well in the very comfy downstairs bedroom and enjoyed cosy evenings in by the fire. There are plenty of places to eat and buy essentials nearby and lovely walks along the beach. If you like to keep busy with trips to local attractions, you'll need to get in your car, but there is plenty within easy reach if you wan this. We were happy to largely stay put and relax!
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2024

8/10 Good

Emma H.

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful property
We really loved the house and had a very comfortable stay on Mersea Island. The sofa bed listed on the online description was broken was a problem for our party but we managed around it an Vanessa was charming and very helpful.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024

8/10 Good

Shaun L.

Liked: Cleanliness
Bags of Character.
Lovely position with ample parking. House has bags of character. Tall guests will need to mind their heads! As a house that allows pets, a few of us suffered mild allergic symptoms. Entirely my fault however as it is advertised as such but worthwhile mentioning if your group has allergies. Great for walks and seafood 😋
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

susan c.

Lovely cottage with amazing garden and beautiful views
This is a lovely cottage in a really beautiful area with great views. The cottage is very spacious with comfortable seating and beds. Excellent communication with the host . Great amount of local information which we found very useful. My granddaughter loved the board games. Would definitely recommend
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023

8/10 Good

Emma C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Mini break
Beautiful location and views. Very charming.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

8/10 Good

Cal B.

Great location but mind your head!
A wonderful old cottage right on the river - great atmosphere.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

philippa garner G., London

Liked: Cleanliness
Great location home from home.
My family stayed at Crabtree cottage and we had a great stay. It was definately like staying in someones home rather than a holiday let. Great location short walk over to the jetty. Walking distance to shops and local pubs. We enjoyed the views over the estuary at night with a glass of wine. The downstairs bedroom and shower were ideal for my parents.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Rob M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Excellent, as ever
Another lovely week. Best cottage in the best location. Don’t go changing anything!
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer L.

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful location
A lovely old property - very comfortable with a well equiped kitchen etc and a large attractive garden with beautiful views. Good walks and great pubs
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023

8/10 Good

perry g.

weekend away
overall we were happy with the property and excellent communication with the owner however we think that the furniture is tired/grubby looking and the oven and baking tins need a deep clean but the location and outside space is very nice and relaxing, we would stay again
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Katherine S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Period Property with style
We have had a wonderful stay here. Both parents (in their 80’s) absolutely loved it and to my surprise too, two boys aged 12 did too. My elderly dad enjoyed playing the piano - even bought music with him to play. Enough space for the boys to run around, and a terrace for my parents to sit and enjoy the sun and view. It turned out to be the perfect getaway for everyone. We’ve loved it!! We’ve reminisced, and made new memories too. 😊. Exactly how it should be.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Lisa M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Weekend away
The house is beautiful, traditional and quirky, decorated in a very tasteful way. A good sized garden with a sea view, you have all you need in the house with a very short walk into the town.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2023

8/10 Good

Sarah-Jane M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great Location
This cottage is the perfect location if you want to visit the oyster huts of West Mersea, just a short walk away. The cottage is lovely, however the downstairs double could do with a refurb and rejig. Very peaceful and perfect for our annual sisters weekend away.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Brian L.

Liked: Cleanliness
Relaxing, peaceful and convenient
We have just returned, we had a great stay. The cottage was quirky and charming. Kitchen was good and the views were amazing. Retuning next year..
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Melanie S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect holiday
Beautiful cottage, fantastic location, overall a truly wonderful break
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

kenneth D.

Liked: Cleanliness
magical
An Idyllic, off the beaten track, but close to the sea and water sports location.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2022