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The Herdsman

Messing, near Colchester, Essex
Sleeps 2
Bedrooms 1
Bathrooms 1
Change Fri
Dogs welcome 3
4 star
Parking on site / nearby
Highchair available
Travel Cot available
Towels included
Romantic
Internet access
Working farm
Enclosed garden / patio
Downstairs bedroom
Decorated for Christmas
Downstairs bathroom
Pub nearby
Country houses
13 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: OC-58576

Surrounded by peaceful countryside, this charming Essex barn conversion is the perfect romantic retreat for couples wanting to unwind, along with the four-legged loves of their lives. The one-bedroom property is located on a 20-acre farm which offers endless opportunities to explore and sniff out new walks and adventures. Whether you’re looking to simply soak up your tranquil surroundings, or visit the many pretty nearby towns and villages, this cottage is the ideal base.

A mix of exposed brickwork, vaulted ceilings and quirky windows give this property a unique character, while the open-plan design gives a real sense of space. Muddy paws and boots can be swiftly dealt with in the useful porch area before you head inside to chill out. The living area gives everyone plenty of space to relax, whether you’re rustling up a snack in the kitchen or snuggling up on the comfortable sofas while the weary-pawed doze in front of the wood burner-effect gas fire. Enjoy a peaceful night’s rest in the inviting bedroom, while your holidaying hounds recharge in readiness for another day of exploring. Heading outside into your enclosed garden and patio area, get the BBQ fired up, while those on four paws find a sunny spot to enjoy a snooze.

There are many scenic footpaths and cycle tracks surrounding the cottage, for those on two or four legs. For guests who like to feel the sand beneath their paws, cross the causeway to the scenic Mersea Island (12.5 miles) where dogs are welcome on its beach throughout the year. Just make sure you check the tide times first! Visit the National Trust’s Bourne Mill property (11 miles) or take a wander around the historic town of Colchester (8 miles) with its cobbled streets and independent shops.

  • 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
  • 3 dogs 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 18 guest ratings

Overall cleanliness
Overall cleanliness 4.4 starsOverall cleanliness 4.4 starsOverall cleanliness 4.4 starsOverall cleanliness 4.4 starsOverall cleanliness 4.4 stars4.4
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 4.6 starsOverall comfort 4.6 starsOverall comfort 4.6 starsOverall comfort 4.6 starsOverall comfort 4.6 stars4.6
Overall location
Overall location 4.6 starsOverall location 4.6 starsOverall location 4.6 starsOverall location 4.6 starsOverall location 4.6 stars4.6

Reviewed by Rose 4th April 2026

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

Reviewed by Paul 27th March 2026

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

Lovely cottage and location .. we had a fab time

Reviewed by Beryl 22nd March 2026

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

We had a lovely stay in your beautiful barn. Very cosy and comfortable and plenty of room for our greyhound. It was very useful having the enclosed area off the longe .

Reviewed by Gillian 31st October 2025

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

Lovely tranquil rural setting with walks from the front door. Lovely to meet the pet animals & see the horses in the paddock in the morning. Comfortable and cosy base to explore the lovely nearby countryside. The cottage was well equipped & had everything we needed. Owners were very helpful, approachable & friendly. Local pubs nearby in Messing & KRead moreelvedon, with good food & great staff at The Old Crown & The Railway Tavern added to the enjoyment of our holiday Would be happy to return here. Hide

Reviewed by Helen 29th August 2025

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

Fabulous location, accommodation and farm land walks, fantastic hosts too. I would highly recommend The herdsman.

Reviewed by Robin 15th August 2025

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

Absolutely brilliant accommodation which is ideal for dog owners due to the paddocks you can walk around. Spacious and well equipped. Very comfortable with an excellent shower.

Reviewed by Graham 1st August 2025

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

Really relaxing rural retreat; despite that, conveniently close to the A12 for travel. Amazing amount of space for 2 people. Very welcoming hosts.

Reviewed by John 4th July 2025

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

Lovely cottage in an idyllic location, great for dog walking straight from the cottage.

Reviewed by Kevin 15th June 2025

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

This was our second stay at The Herdsman and we enjoyed it as much as we did last June. The barn is spacious, well-equipped and very comfortable. We felt totally relaxed in the peaceful and beautiful location. We loved our daily walks around the farm and our dog had great fun with Jack and Barley, Jane and Steves gorgeous golden retrievers. Jane anRead mored Steve were perfect hosts and we look forward to a return visit. Hide

Reviewed by Helen 23rd May 2025

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

We had a fabulous week at the herdsman last week. Set in the beautiful Essex countryside. Great base for visiting family in Colchester. Everything you need was on hand, plus plenty of relaxing walks around the farm. Jane & Steve were perfect hosts. Plus there 2 dogs Jack & Barley, horses, goats, chickens and a sheep. Thank You Jane & Steve.

Reviewed by David 16th May 2025

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

Had the most amazing week, jayne and steve have made the place even better with the addition of the new pond, can't wait to come back.

Reviewed by Ian 11th April 2025

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

Our second stay at the Herdsman cottage, and if anything, it was better than the first. Probably because we knew the location, area, and what to expect. The cottage is located on a beautiful site, with several fields, a couple of ponds, a variety of very friendly animals (horses, goats, sheep, pony, chickens, etc). You have free access to it all, oRead moreur dog loved it, especially meeting the pony and swimming in the ponds! Hide

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.

16 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.
Canine Cottages 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.