Kingfisher's Nest

A hand-crafted hot tub retreat for two, secluded along a country track on the edge of a shimmering lake in the heart of Essex countryside.

Based at Chalkney Water Meadows, close to the historic Essex market town of Colchester, Browning Bros. enjoy a well-earned reputation for crafting deliciously quirky and uniquely memorable holiday experiences.

Kingfishers' Nest is their latest cabin creation. A true hidden gem, the bespoke, hand-built retreat-for-two is peacefully secluded along a country track, and perfectly positioned on the edge of an undisturbed Colne Valley lake that's teeming with wildlife. It is only one of two cabins set back from each other to ensure privacy.

As if its location wasn't quite wondrous enough, the relaxing cabin is full of heart-warming attention to detail, with all those holiday essentials more than covered... and a little more besides!

For one thing, the magical setting is maximised by huge, well-placed windows that mean you can enjoy soothing lake-and-woodland scenes from just about everywhere, whatever the weather. There's a gorgeous bathtub in the bedroom that overlooks the lake, or on sunnier days you can simply wander outside to the hot tub instead!

When you're not immersed in those mesmerising views, you can unwind in the open plan lounge, kitchen and dining area, which you'll find equipped with snug seating, cosy log burner, a table and chairs, and a TV for when you're all talked out.

You'll find the kitchen gainfully equipped with an electric oven and hob, ideal for whipping up hearty breakfasts and romantic suppers, while the double bedroom boasts also has a scenery-showcasing window from the bed (note: prepare for lazy lie-ins aplenty!)  

Aside from the aforementioned hot tub, the spacious outdoor decking has a bench and BBQ that makes sunset-watching truly addictive..and a gorgeous sauna with outdoor shower area makes heading back after a day exploring the local area a genuine treat to look forward to. A visiting masseuse is also available for in-cabin massages, and there is even the option of a private chef, should you wish to elevate your pampering even more!

Speaking of the local area, a 20 minute drive into Colchester makes for an enthralling way to while away some holiday time, with its bustling independent shops, friendly zoo, and eleventh-century Norman castle. A ten minute drive will give you an option of several lovely villages, each boasting cafes, pubs and smaller shops.

Otherwise, why not spend some more time appreciating the beauty of the countryside, with a nostalgic trip on the Colne Valley Steam Railway? And of course, since you're in Essex it'd be rude not to pay a visit to the coast, particularly as both Frinton on Sea and Clacton are within easy reach (though if you're in the mood for rock oysters, head across to Mersea Island instead).

Shopaholics, meanwhile, can max out their credit cards at Braintree Village, a dedicated shopping outlet village, before heading back to Kingfishers' Nest for a welcome sauna and a relaxing glass of bubbles under the emerging stars.  

It's a hard life, but someone has to live it!

Things to note

Part funded by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development. Up to two small dogs are welcome with prior permission, at an additional charge of £30 per dog per stay. Please note that as the cabin is situated on an unfenced lake, care should be taken at all times. Fishing is permitted on the lake by prior arrangement only.