New listing, bookings will start from mid May and updated photos are to follow. A cosy cottage for exploring the area or taking time to relax. Located on the Essex/Suffolk border, this recently refurbished house is a friendly bolthole. Within easy reach of the picturesque Stour Valley, the house is perfect for couples or small families in need of space and tranquil countryside adventures. Sleeps 4; 2 doubles across 2 bedrooms.

Manningtree is an attractive small town on the banks of the River Stour, close to the border of Suffolk. It is believed by many to be the smallest recorded town in England. The High Street which runs parallel to the beautiful River Stour is lined with a range of timber framed buildings, many of which have Georgian fronts. Take a moment to look up at Market Cross in the High Street and you will see the sculpture of the Manningtree Ox, mentioned by William Shakespeare in Henry IV Part 1 (Act 2, Scene 4), where Falstaff is described as “that roasted Manningtree Ox with the pudding in his belly”. The town and neighbouring village of Mistley are steeped in history. Their most famous resident of past times is the notorious Matthew Hopkins - the Witchfinder General. Hopkins' career as self-titled witchfinder began in 1644 until he retired in 1647. Within this short time, Hoskins and his colleague John Stearne were responsible for more people being hanged for witchcraft than in the previous 100 years. The walk along 'The Walls' from Manningtree to Mistley is stunning and Mistley also offers lovely old buildings, the Mistley Towers and a park surrounded by ancient woodland where you can find the much loved 800 year old tree called 'Old Knobbley', this historic tree even has it's own website! Mistley has a lovely cafe overlooking the estuary, fish and chip shop and an award winning restaurant called The Mistley Thorn which prides itself in resourcing local meats and produce whilst specialising in local seafood including the ever popular Mersea Oysters. The Red Lion is a lovely traditional pub offering real ales, craft ciders, quality wines and spirits. It also hosts great live music and comedy evenings. They even allow you to eat any takeaway inside the pub, providing you with plates and cutlery free of charge. If you are a pizza lover then we can not recommend their homemade pizza's enough (The Pizza Place) available to eat in or as a takeaway.