A unique, quirky cabin-for-two with an al fresco hot tub, rich in luxurious detail and beautifully secluded on the edge of ancient Essex woodland.
  • Sleeps: 2
  • Bedroom: 1
  • Bathroom: 1
  • Minimum stay: 2 nights

From the moment you and your loved one arrive at Hideaway on the Heath, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into the pages of a rich, opulent fairytale.

Secluded in a private garden close to Colchester (you may even be able to hear the occasional lion’s roar from the zoo!), you’ll be completely surrounded by whispering trees and ancient, magical woodland that also forms part of a nature reserve.

A seasoned hospitality expert, friendly owner Emma has made the cabin her personal labour of love… and it shows. Spacious and welcoming, the open-plan layout oozes quality and supreme attention to detail throughout.

There’s a gorgeous four-poster superking bed at one end, along with a gleaming roll-top copper bathtub for sumptuous bubble soaks. Just slide open the door behind the bed to discover generous en-suite facilities that include a heavenly rainfall shower.

At the other end of the cabin awaits a compact, well-equipped modern kitchen that comes complete with all the high-end appliances you’ll need to rustle up romantic suppers, plus designer crockery and indulgent ‘extras’ that include a coffee and ice machine.

And as if all that wasn’t enough, there’s a soft-glowing firepit, cosy, fairy-lit ‘egg’ chairs, and an al fresco hot tub waiting to welcome you in the private garden; perfect for catching the sunset and stars in the vast, clear sky above.

(During the summer, there’s a good chance of catching a shooting star… so have your wishes ready, just in case!)

Although Emma and her family live on site, you won’t be disturbed during your stay – unless you want to ask any questions or advice about things to do in the local area, of course. You can also pre-order groceries and a selection of treats, from fresh rose petals and Prosecco to afternoon tea and mouth-watering foodie platters, especially for your arrival.

As for those things to do, nobody would blame you for lazing in the garden with a good book and a glass of wine, listening to the joyous birdsong without moving so much as a muscle!

But if you do feel like exploring, the village of Layer de la Haye is steeped in both beauty and history, dating back to Saxon times. The shimmering Abberton Reservoir is practically on the doorstep, and there are some wonderful walks right from the door, some leading to friendly village pubs and a farm shop.

Slightly further afield is Mersea Island, accessible in a five-minute drive, which boasts a line of cheerful, coloured beach huts and watersports galore, while Braintree Freeport Village is just 25 minutes away – perfect for those who want to shop ‘til they drop!

Things to note

Check in after 4pm, check out by 11am. Pets are not permitted. Please note that while the owner lives on site with her family, you will not be disturbed during your stay.

At a glance

  • A unique, lovingly-designed garden cabin, privately secluded on the edge of ancient woodland close to Colchester, Essex.
  • Perfect for a romantic couple, the open-plan, self-contained layout includes a four-poster superking bed and copper bath at one end, and a modern kitchen at the other.
  • Relax in the private garden, which features a hot tub, firepit, and cosy ‘egg’ chairs – perfect for stargazing!
  • Grocery deliveries, food platters and romantic treats can be pre-ordered for your stay – just ask.
  • There are two friendly pubs and a farm shop in walking distance, with Abberton Reservoir on the doorstep. Mersea Island is a five-minute drive away.

Features

  • Adults Only
  • Hot Tubs

Facilities

Unique garden cabin, sleeps 2 guests. Open-plan layout: superking four-poster bed, copper bathtub, ‘hidden’ en-suite bathroom with rainfall shower and WC, dining table and chairs, sofa, modern well-equipped kitchen with Dualit toaster, ice machine, coffee maker. Private garden with hot tub, ‘egg’ chairs and blankets, firepit.

Local Activities

Walking, cycling, nature reserve, woodland rambles, picnic spots, pubs, farm shop, watersports, beaches, shopping

Where you'll be staying

Colchester, Essex

What the guests of Hideaway Heath Hollow say

“Emma’s place is gorgeous. Without any doubt one of the most beautiful Airbnbs we’ve ever been at. Everything is so stylish and decorated. The hot tub is amazing and the bed was really comfy. Also, the kitchen was equipped with everything we needed. Perfect place!”

“The perfect place for a romantic break – once we were there we didn’t want to leave. There was everything we needed. The cabin is cleverly laid out and all so very beautifully furnished and decorated with masses of fascinating little details . The garden and hot tub were private and relaxing. Being right next to the woods it was really peaceful with plenty of birds and wildlife coming in and out of the garden. The woods were worth exploring too. So pleased we found this. ”

“From the moment Emma welcomed us with her beaming smile to the moment I turned the key on exiting this magical hideaway, I felt I’d fallen down a rabbit hole and landed in an oasis of eccentricity and luxury that is usually found in stately home follies. From the tiny ornamental mice that catch your eye and heart when you spot them, to the absolute opulence of the four poster bed with theatrical curtains. However, if you’re thinking you’re only getting an olde world lodge you’d be mistaken, this lodge has every mod con you’d need for a break, from the massive HD TV that’s logged in to all the best providers, to the hot tub that’s so private you could be anywhere in the world. Emma answered every enquiry promptly and personally, I never felt that I was disturbing her at all. My partner felt like a King and this magical place was a dream come true!”

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