Mersea Island is situated in the Blackwater Estuary on the north Essex coast, south of Colchester. There is essentially only one main road into and out of Mersea Island. The east Mersea sand and shingle beach, backed by tiers of colourful beach huts, stretches for miles. Apart from a childrens' swing park, a couple of ice cream vendors and a beachside cafe, the beachfront is undeveloped. There are plenty of sea shells in the sand for children to enjoy. It's a relatively peaceful spot where people sit and sunbathe or walk their dogs.

Accommodation in England

Essex	Spring Hall Cottage
	Spring Hall Cottage is a charming 200 year old Grade II listed thatched cottage in the North Essex/South Suffolk borders. Recently refurbished to a very high standard with a new kitchen and bathroom complementing the wealth of exposed beams. There are two separate double bedrooms one of which can be made into two single beds if required, the lounge is 23 feet long which features the original inglenook fireplace, the dining room area seats 8 comfortably so you can entertain your family and friends in style. The cottage has an enclosed garden of approximately one third of an acre laid down to lawns and flowerbeds with views overlooking farm land. Well-behaved pets also welcome.   01206 251 619, 07779 264 679    Click here to email about cottage holiday
Essex	Oysterbed Cottage
	Oysterbed Cottage is a lovingly restored Mersea Island mariner's house set in the old village area of West Mersea. Guests can now enjoy a self-catering seaside retreat graced by Victorian period features plus modern conveniences. A mere 6 minute stroll from the beach and ideally located for Mersea Island’s renowned seafood restaurants and charming seafront, Oysterbed Cottage offers a stylish, family-run home by the sea. The cottage sleeps 5. Cot available. Click on the photograph to see what a lovely cottage this is. Available for Christmas bookings.   07949 166354,07949 166354    Click here to email about cottage holiday
Suffolk	The Grove Cottages
	Grove Cottages (sleep 2-6). Enjoy the romantic atmosphere of your own 300 year old 4 star English farm cottage. With all the lovely original features of ancient oak beams, a traditional baking oven and 'copper kettle', open log fires, original brick or wood floors, authentic farmhouse furniture, ducks, roses and a touch of luxury we bring alive the Romance of Rural Living. Surrounded by lovely Suffolk countryside, just 2 hours from London, our 5 very cosy cottages make up the old Grove Farm which is close to Lavenham, famous for being the prettiest medieval village in England. Short breaks and weekend getaways are welcome all year. Pets are Welcome.   01787 211 115,    Click here to email about cottage holiday