The Pontoon

• Sleeps: 8
• Bedrooms: 2
• Bathroom: 1
• Minimum stay: 2 nights

Consistently named as one of the UK’s happiest places, Leigh-on-Sea is a tranquil, picturesque Essex fishing village that’s packed with eclectic style and charm.

An exquisite houseboat, you’ll find The Pontoon peacefully moored at Leigh Marina, surrounded by idyllic views of rippling water and gently bobbing boats… in other words, the kind of scenery that just compels you to breathe out and relax.

Luxuriously styled in a playful nautical theme – there are plenty of quirky accessories to spot – the floating retreat is decorated in soft green hues that both blend beautifully with the aquatic surroundings, and inspire some well-deserved downtime.

There’s plenty of space to simply catch up and enjoy holiday life with your loved ones, whether you’re stretched out on the plush sofas (there’s a large widescreen TV cleverly disguised as a painting, too) or savouring a drink out on the extended deck.

In fact, spending time on that glorious, stretches-out-forever deck is sure to be a highlight of your stay: on lazy summer afternoons you may even be tempted to jump straight into the shimmering estuary for an invigorating swim at high tide!

Back on board, you’ll have a well-equipped modern kitchen for preparing seafaring feasts to be savoured at the dining table, surrounded by marina views… or indeed, outside again, as the sun begins to melt into the horizon.

When it’s finally time to turn in, there are two double bedrooms to choose from, with sea views from French doors, TVs, and beds dressed in crisp, fresh linen. Those plush living room sofas also double as cosy beds for up to four extra guests, sleeping eight in total. Toasty central heating also means you’ll be kept nice and warm on cooler evenings.

At a glance

• A stylish floating haven, peacefully moored at Leigh Marina in Essex for panoramic estuary views.
• The self-contained retreat sleeps up to 8 guests in 2 bedrooms, with 2 double sofa beds in the living space.
• The extended deck is a true highlight – sunbathe, dine, or jump off the side at high tide for a refreshing swim!
• Head to Leigh Broadway for shopping and coffee-stops, or wander into Old Leigh for seafood and a sense of historic charm.
• The train station is close by, with London accessible in a 45-minute journey.

Features

• Family Friendly
• Large Groups
• Seaside Breaks

More information

After a sound night’s sleep, freshen up in the shower room – complimentary toiletries and fluffy towels provided – and then, why not wander into Leigh Broadway for a slap-up breakfast you didn’t have to cook? Thriving with a creative mix of independent shops, cafés, restaurants, and art galleries, there’s plenty here to help while away some holiday time.

You could also take a stroll along the coast and into Old Leigh: an absolute must if you’re a lover of fresh seafood! Boasting a 1,000 year-old fishing industry the area is steeped in fascinating history – pay a visit to the Leigh Heritage Centre, housed in the old Smithy, to learn more – and there’s a wealth of friendly, food-serving pubs to stop in, too.

Prefer exploring further afield? The train station is achingly close by, ready to transport you to Southend-on-Sea and its famous pier in one direction, and bustling London in the other.

Things to note

Pets are not permitted. Note that although up to 8 guests can be accommodated, this could prove a bit of a squeeze!