Samphire

Hi. We arrived home last night after a really wonderful long weekend break. Samphire exceeded our expectations with its comfort, warmth and location. It really is what it says it is; a place to sit back and immerse yourselves in peace and nature. A warm wind blew across the open landscape, a wonderful variety of sea birds fed at the low water tide (the binoculars were a great asest fro this!), and the cabin is flooded with bright light with great views in all directions . However its not so isolated that you cant easily reach pubs and restaurants for good food. We enjoyed exploring West Mersea and got on our bikes for a day trip to the Munnings Museum at Dedham. There are great local trains from Colchester to explore other nearby beauty spots. Highly recommendable for exploring coastal Essex and Suffolk

It was the second time we stayed in Samphire, as we so enjoyed the first time back in March. The location is stunning, on the sea wall of an estuary, totally on its own. The cabin is very well equipped, with everything we needed for our four night stay. The lounge area & the dining table are positioned to enjoy the wonderful views, & the bed is super comfy. We decided to stay in & cook in the evening, as no restaurant could rival the view of the estuary with its ever changing tides. We shopped locally at Bonners Barn Farm Shop & Mersea Seafood Company, both of which sell excellent produce. We would highly recommend staying at Samphire.

Peaceful stay at Samphire. The setting was perfect, right on the edge of the estuary with no one else around. The sunrises were up there with the best I've seen. Absolute bliss!

It was absolutely perfect, we were so lucky with the weather and had glorious sunshine! We went paddle boarding, used the Kayaks and explored the island. It was so lovely to return to such a beautiful setting at the end of each day, we watched the sunset whilst eating our dinner with a glass of wine and thoroughly enjoyed our stay...we will definitely be back :)

Extremely relaxing

Staying at Samphire in early June was amazing. The location is so peaceful and quiet and the cabin is very well maintained. Very comfortable and great location

We stayed here for a midweek break and highly recommend if you want peace, relaxation and seclusion. The accommodation was perfectly sized for 2. It was well equipped and comfy. It had a lovely outdoor space overlooking Ray Island. We had many species of birds including the beautiful singing of the Nightingale.

This was booked as a relaxing short break following our daughter’s wedding. Superb location and accommodation. Tranquil.

Stayed in a lovely cabin by the river Ray, it was very clean and quiet.

It was a calm pleasant stay.

We had a wonderful stay. The cabin is really well-situated with stunning views over the estuary. We saw lots of water birds as well as amazing cloudscapes and big sunsets. The owners were lovely- really communicative. The cabin was spotless and finished to a high standard

Samphire is in a fantastic location on the sea wall on the banks of the Blackwater Estuary in Peldon. It is extremely private with nothing else around, & offered us a superb birdwatching experience. Samphire was immaculate, with everything of a very high standard, & a super comfy bed. It was equipped with everything we needed for a wonderful four night stay.

Beautiful location, property to a really high standard had everything to make our stay comfortable.

What a uniquely beautiful place. We enjoyed our stay so much we didn’t want to leave. The place is spotless and has all the amenities we needed. The scenery and the peacefulness of the surrounding is a massive plus. Would definitely recommend.

A beautiful, modern cabin in the middle of nowhere. The peace and quiet was insurmountable and the view across the estuary was beautiful. Check in and check out was easy and straightforward and the facilities were perfect. The autumn weather just added to the atmosphere.

Our stay was absolutely amazing, what a beautiful place in a tranquil setting.

An extremely relaxing and tranquil long weekend break in the delightful Samphire. Loved sitting on the deck, a glass in hand, mesmerised by the views, water and local wildlife and not a single person in sight! So peaceful, and a great spot to watch the sun go down over the farm. We explored the waterways and marshes with our paddle boards (using them in kayak mode) launching straight in front of the cabin, which had plenty of storage and hosing down facilities. Samphire was beautifully decorated and and fully equipped with some nice extra touches such as the binoculars and games. If you are lucky to get a clear night look up and count the stars!

It was really peaceful and relaxing, the house had everything we needed and more. The birds you could hear at dawn and dusk were amazing.

We loved it! It was so lovely to be in the middle of nowhere. It was so peaceful and great to have the water right at our feet. The children loved being able to wander down and have a paddle and use the binoculars supplied to do a bit of birdwatching. Sadly the weather wasn't great so we didn't get to enjoy it fully as much as we would've liked. The cabin was kitted out fully and being used to UK holidays I took everything but the kitchen sink only to find that I needn't have bothered to take half of the things that I did as they were all provided by our hosts. We did take our own kayak out on the water but it was too windy so the children didn't last long as the current was too strong. It was nice to have a place where this is an option though.

We had a very peaceful, private and comfortable stay at Samphire . We really enjoyed the balance of feeling isolated , with being so near so many lovely places to visit such as Mersea Island , Hyde Hall, Beth Chatto’s gardens and Tiptree . The cabin / shed ( still not sure what the correct name is !) had every facility we could have wished for and we were extremely comfortable on the extra deep king size mattress …a rarity in some of these cabins we find ! We did not use the kayaks only because the tide times clashed with all the other things we wanted to do ..we were spoiled also by great weather . And who knew birds could be so noisy ! A great stay , and our most luxurious cabin stay to date .Thankyou !

We had a fabulous stay. The location is beautiful. There are stunning views from the deck. The cabin has everything you could need and have been beautifully converted. The bed was really comfy and everything was provided for our baby too.

Our second visit to Samphire and we will definitely be booking again! Such a gorgeous little cabin, with everything you could need for a short break. The bed (& sofa bed!) is super comfy and the decking lovely to sit out on and hide from the wind. We saw a number of birds but, most excitingly, an otter!! We couldn’t believe our eyes! If you are looking for somewhere away from people - this is the place for you!

A fabulous long weekend away from it all at Samphire. The cabin is perfect, so well equipped with everything we needed, and warm and cosy from the wind and rain too! We loved exploring Mersea and beyond, walking along the sea wall near the cabin and looking at all the birds on the mudflats. Zena's welcoming information was spot on!

If you dream of settling down with a great book, sat in the sunshine with nothing but tranquil birdsong and the gentle lapping of water to accompany you...Samphire is perfection. The cabin has everything you need to be more than comfortable and completely relaxed. It's in a great location for getting away and switching off, without hours of endless travel. Idyllic mornings and sunsets and great views from every window. Whether you want long walks, wine on the deck or a quiet paddle, it has it all, with complete privacy too. If you want a taste of the seaside, take the short drive to Mersea FIsh Bar and either eat with your toes in the sand or head back to the cabin with your spoils, you won't be disappointed.

We booked Samphire for 2 nights as it is near some relations that we were visiting. Samphire is wonderful! Pretty isolated, but we loved that. We watched plenty of birds, went for lovely walks. Samphire had everything we needed and is furnished to a high standard. It’s very warm and cosy.

A lovely couple of nights spent at Samphire, we were seeking peace and quiet and to be close to nature. Despite the cabin being isolated it’s only a 10 minute drive to a couple of different pubs and shops on Mersea Island. Many different types of birds to be seen and heard feeding as the tide goes out on the mud flats. Stunning landscape with ever changing light.

Peaceful get away for a short wekend. Amazing location and beautiful accomodation Easy access and clear instructions for entry Warm and cosy even in the midst of winter when -6oCboutside

We had a wonderful time at Samphire! It was our second time there and it already feels like home. It's cozy, comfortable and lovingly decorated. While Samphire is located about five minutes from a main road, it feels so private and beautifully remote.

Samphire cabin was absolutely gorgeous! It was a home from home in the most beautiful place and complete bliss!

We had a wonderful time at Samphire! The shepherd's hut has been tenderly and lovingly converted in to a modern, comfortable get away.

We loved our stay at Samphire. Beautiful surroundings and very peaceful, every window had a lovely view, including sunsets and sunrises. Completely undisturbed and made the perfect location for our first holiday with our 9mo daughter. The owners thoughtfully ensured the property was baby friendly with a high chair and travel cot ready to use. Near to Mersea Island, and nice spots to grab lunch like the Peldon Rose, and Tiptree Tea Rooms.

You must stay here!! This is a beautiful cabin, located at the water's edge in a farm in Essex. Fixtures and furnishings are a high end spec and it is fully equipped with everything you need. Although it was October we were blessed with lovely weather and were able to sit outside on the decking and absorb the beautiful surroundings, watch the wildlife and detox for a couple of days :-)

The cabin was lovely and in the most beautiful location. We felt as though we were miles from anywhere, yet it was easy to get to pubs and restaurants.

We had a Friday - Monday stay for our wedding anniversary. Instructions were clear and access was easy. Samphire is beautifully furnished and comfortable. It ticks all the boxes for isolation, peace and nature. We had walks along the sea wall, and visited East and West Mersea, Copt Hall (NT) and Layer Marney Tower during our stay. I recommend the Peldon Rose pub for a meal, and Bonner's Barn for groceries. In summary, a delightful stay and highly recommended.

wonderful stay ..so private, so comfortable with great views and we had the bonus of good weather

Overall an extremely enjoyable stay. Beautiful views, lovely location, well equipped.

We had a magical stay at samphire and couldn’t fault it. We had fun on the kayaks, the sunsets were amazing. It’s a lovely remote location but you are not far from Mersea Island if you need other things to do. We’d definitely go back.

We enjoyed a peaceful 4 nights in the very comfortable cabin overlooking Mersea Island. It is a beautiful setting with plenty of places to swim, walk and watch the wildlife.

We stayed at Samphire for a week and had a wonderful time. The cabin was a bit like a tardis, there was plenty of space for the two of us, but it does look small when you are stood outside. It was a very comfortable and calming space to use as a base for exploring the surrounding area and for spending chill out time, reading and relaxing. We witnessed some beautiful sunsets and had a lovely time kayaking and swimming at hide tide. There is quite a strong current, so you need to be aware of this when in, or on, the water, but nothing to really worry about. If you are suffer from arachnophobia you might struggle a bit as we saw a few spiders - the cabin was very clean, so it was probably a combination of the cabin’s location and the weather conditions. We’d describe Samphire as a very special place to stay if you like a combination of your own space, nature and your creature comforts.

We enjoyed a magical week at Samphire it was so relaxing to sit and listen to the birds while watching waters rise and fall in the estuary. The cabin was fully equipped with everything we could have possible needed and furnished to a high standard. The bed was comfortable and the shower luxurious.

We had an amazing two nights at Samphire, a gorgeous and comfy cabin on the marshes. Tranquil and relaxing and, as long as you take everything with you, there's no need to leave.

An absolutely beautiful property in a stunning location. Very well equipped and easy to find

Samphire was a delight. Clean, well equipped and peaceful.

Lovely views, very comfortable, clean and thoughtful accommodation. We have a very enjoyable stay with kayaking, walks and trips onto Mersea Island. All information provided was helpful and clear. Would definitely revisit and recommend to others.

Absolutely loved it! So smart inside & rural and isolated.

Our stay at Samphire was just what we needed, relax & recharge. It was so so quiet even though you could see live happening you couldn't hear it, we just rested, walked and my husband enjoyed using the Kayak. Samphire was well equipped. We would definitely go again.

The most relaxing stay, was so lovely to be near the water watching the birds everyday in a complete rural location. Started the day by hearing the birds watching the sunrise thanks to our little Early riser, then yoga on the decking followed by a day exploring, finished by relaxing in the cabin. Perfect

We had a great 2-night stay at Samphire. Check-in and check-out was very smooth, aided by helpful communication from the owners. The location is amazing and the cabin had everything needed for a very comfortable stay. It's proximity to Mersea Island is great, we visited both days to enjoy the oysters and other fresh fish and shellfish at the Oyster Company and Dukes. An evening meal at The Rose at Peldon was another treat, a charming pub and friendly staff. But the highlight was being able to sit outside and listen to the sound of the birds, the water as the tide came in and out, and simply relax - it was just what we needed! We'll definitely be back!

What a special place in a magical location. We’ve just returned from four nights at Samphire - we were lucky as the weather was fantastic but even if it had rained all the time we would still have been captivated by the ever-changing view with the tide coming in and out and the changes in light. The cabin itself is perfect - comfortable, stylish and best of all for us, very remote and peaceful. We lazed, read, cooked, walked and eventually summoned the courage for a go on a kayak. We shared the water with waterfowl and the birds and didn’t see another soul. We had some lovely walks nearby, including a long circular walk on Mersea and a pint at The Plough. We have returned thoroughly refreshed and relaxed and looking forward to returning next time we need some quiet R&R. THANK YOU!

We had a wonderful stay at Samphire. Surrounded by farmland and mudflats, with only shore birds and waders for neighbours, it provided the tranquility we needed to really relax for a couple of days. With windows on three sides of the cabin, it offered captivating views of the surrounding landscape which changed as the tide turned and the sun set. The spacious cabin was comfortable, clean and tastefully decorated, with everything we needed for a short break. It was our first trip away with our 2-month old baby and all went smoothly! Communication with the owners was friendly and efficient.

Samphire was a superb place to stay and delivered as expected. Although not remote the location creates the sense that it is. We were fortunate with the weather as although cold it was sunny and we woke to stunning sunsets and enjoyed expansive sunrises. On our last evening we saw an owl swoop down in front on the cabin. The Ray Channel Wall was a delightful easy walk first thing accompanied by bird song. Easy access to the delights of The Rose at Peldon and the Oyster Shack at Mersea. On the Sunday we enjoyed an easy drive to Brightlingsea.

Samphire is a rare and ultimate creek side location where you can watch the changing tides and shore birds from your bed!

Isolated cabin on an estuary, wonderful place for birdwatching with it's serene atmosphere, very much a weekend antidote to city living.

We had the most wonderful time in Sampgire cabin. We booked for a few days and did equal amounts of relaxing and exploring in the most beautiful space and it's surroundings. The cabin had everything we needed, including provision of a travel cot and high chair, and was immaculate. The information on the area that the hosts left for us was perfect and very helpful for our excursions.

Beautiful situation, absolute peace and quiet. Beautifully presented property with everything you could need. We weren't lucky with the weather, but a windswept and very wet walk along the seawall gave us the fresh air we needed, then a cracking ( huge portions) pub lunch at The Peldon Rose ( FYI The Plough is apparently closed weekday lunchtimes) and a movie on the excellent TV facilities back at Samphire. Birdwatching opportunities hard to beat - waders, geese, skylarks,marsh harriers, egrets, kestrels, short-eared owls aplenty and all from the comfort of the cabin. It's like a luxury bird hide!

We had such a relaxing and wonderful stay at Samphire- you really couldn't ask for a better weekend away. The cabin is very cosy, with beautiful views across the estuary. We were lucky to have some spectacular sunsets when we stayed, and the plethora of wildlife was so peaceful to watch. The check in process was also very straightforward

Great long weekend away over New Year

I desperately needed some time away from life, to be alone, with my own thoughts, go for walks, reflect and get some work done on my part time course. As much as I love the forest, I was craving the sea. Somewhere where the landscape stretched out far and there was no feeling of claustrophobia. Somewhere with access to beautiful walks. And a property that was just one open plan room that felt safe, calm, light, peaceful and very very clean. I slept well, I woke with the sunrise, went for walks, studied, played guitar, cooked, read lots, stared out at nature from the window and reflected a lot on life. This whole trip was the most therapeutic medicine. I wish I could have a few days here every month or two!!!

My daughter and I have a wonderful,peaceful 4 day stay at Samphire. Really well kitted out, clean, comfortable and fantastic location right on the edge of the estuary. We especially liked having the tide clock so we could time our High water swims! Communication with owners was smooth and helpful. Thank you Zeno

It was very peaceful and relaxing.

We fell in love with this place! Such a beautiful location, so peaceful and surrounded by nature. If you want to make use of the estuary for water sports kayaking, paddle boarding etc it is worth noting that this is only suitable an hour either side of high tide. We are already thinking about our next stay!

Before arriving we breakfasted at Mersea Barns & then ordered a seafood platter from The Deck. Both recommended. We had a wonderful relaxing stay at Samphire. The owner was very helpful in answering our questions & there was everything we needed there for the two of us to kick back & relax for a few days. Kayaking across to Ray Island was great fun & hubby ventured further afield along the creeks at high tide, picking samphire, which we cooked & enjoyed along with our seafood. The area adjacent to Samphire is like a swimming pool & was a bonus as we hadn’t expected to be able to swim too. The weather was glorious & we spent most of our stay outdoors, using the heater on the deck as we watched the sunset & moonrise. The speed with which the tide goes in & out is incredible & makes for an ever-changing landscape- take binoculars, a camera & a bird book. We saw a kestrels, osprey, egrets & a Goliath Heron, as well as magnificent murmurations of starlings. Perfect for a peaceful romantic getaway.

The stay was brilliant. Samphire is in a beautfiul setting that reflects the photos and the interior was spotless and very well done.

Wow, what a gorgeous place in such a beautiful setting. We loved the fact that during our stay it was harvest time and that we were able to watch the farmers in action using the combined harvester day and night. Well equipped accomadation which had everything we needed for our weekend stay. No cooker in accomadation but this wasn't a problem for us as we enjoyed a short drive into Mersea island for some fresh fish. Perfect setting for crabbing to my son and husbands delight who caught about 40 crabs during the weekend. We also made use of the kayak during our stay which was a first for both our children who really enjoyed the activity. Myself and my husband enjoyed each night sitting outside and looking out towards the fields, on the first night we actual was able to hear some live music in the distance and have a firerworks show which was a bonus. Perfect romantic setting for couples who are looking to get away from it all. Thanks you to Zena and James who were brilliant hosts.

Absolutely incredible! The location is great. The space was perfect for a family of 4. Our 16 month old baby used the space to walk more independently, which was an added bonus. Such a picturesque setting and watching the tide come in was so much fun. The hut was extremely clean and up to a high standard! We will definitely be booking again in the near future once our little one is older then he can go on the Kayak. Thank you for a beautiful family holiday!!

Ssshhh! Don’t tell anyone but Samphire and it’s location are just the place to “recharge your batteries”, relax and get away from it all. What a wonderful view from the decking to do my early morning Pilates and paddleboard with my daughter. Bring a good book, the favourite people in your life and enjoy the peace and quiet. But remember “keep it under your hat”.

Samphire is just beautiful. It was utterly serene and peaceful. 360 degree views, an ever-changing picture due to tides and weather, an array of birds and other wildlife. The cabin is like a tardis as it looks so small and unassuming from the outside, yet inside has everything you need and is furnished and decorated to a high standard in a lovely neutral palate. We weren't brave enough to venture out in the kayaks, but wish we were young enough to do so! It was enough to just sit and watch the environment and to really slow down. We did also visit Mersea Island and the petrified oaks at Mundon, both of which are within easy reach.

This was our second stay at Samphire and it was as brilliant as the first. It's in a beautiful, isolated spot, perfect for swimming and canoeing, and the cabin itself is so well equipped and comfortable. The bird chatter and song is amazing. As last time, we left feeling very refreshed.

What an amazing place! The cabin is well equipped to a high standard with everything you need for a comfortable stay. But it is the setting and environment that steals the show. Isolated with no one to bother you but the fantastic array of birds and changing outlook due to the tides. We spent much of our time glued to our binoculars, even getting up at 4 am to watch the sunrise and listen to the incredible birdsong. It doesn’t get any better than this, pure magic. It was a privilege and joy to be in such a wonderful place.

We wanted somewhere not too far from home as was only able to book two nights, but it had to have quiet surroundings & good scenery. We were not disappointed! We were originally due to take our two young children, but had a last minute change (a grandparent requested some grandchildren time!), so it became a two night break for just me and my husband, we were very grateful for this after 15 months of back-to-back homeworking & homeschooling! The cabin's location is perfect, the view, the contrast & the space. It has everything you need to relax indoors or out & the kayaks are a great bonus to help explore if wanted. We really enjoyed our stay & would love to go back (tomorrow if possible!), it's definitely on our 'go back to' list, which doesn't happen often as we generally like to try new places each time.

Beautiful surroundings, extremely peaceful, perfect get away

We absolutely loved our three night stay in Samphire! The location is absolutely stunning. The birds don't even seem to realise anyone is close by, and the changing tides and clouds made the outlook continuously different. The cabin is beautifully furnished with everything you need. The Plough at the end of the track does great food (in front of a cosy fire) and the nearby farm shop sells a great selection of local produce. What more could you want? Two small things to be aware of: (1) it can be very noisy in the cabin in high winds which could be an issue for light sleepers if you are unlucky with the weather, and (2) you can walk along the sea wall from the cabin for ~a mile, but otherwise need to drive or cycle up the farm track (walking is prohibited).

Wow!! Our first family holiday was always going to be memorable, but we have some really special memories to treasure from this holiday.

A perfect long weekend. The hosts have thought of every basic thing you need to enjoy your stay. Our daughter loved watching the birds on the mudflat and had a lovely time exploring around the building. Tried to rebook for later this year and gutted to see it’s all Booked up! Hope to return ASAP.

It was lovely and peaceful. Lots of birds to observe.

We had a wonderful stay at Samphire - the location is perfect and the views are superb. The cabin is finished to a very high standard and has everything you need for a cosy weekend stay.

It was great! The cabin was clean and the walks along the river were refreshing... just the mini break we needed. Thanks for the Scrabble too, it was great entertainment!

We had a wonderful stay at the very comfortable and remote Samphire. Watching the wildlife was such a highlight. Mersea Island is beautiful and the estuary landscape changes so much with the tides

Beautiful and tranquil location with perfectly adequate resources provided by the host.

We stayed at Samphire as the first stop of our south coast tour for our "honeymoon" (COVID delayed wedding) and we very happy that this could go ahead. We wanted somewhere secluded but not too far from local shops and restaurants and Samphire did not disappoint. The cabin is immaculately furnished to an incredibly high standard and the outdoor seating overlooking Mersea Island is a great place to eat, read and relax. We were only there two days so didn't have much time to explore but the views along the sea wall and the fish and chips on the beach on Mersea Island are worth a visit. 100% would recommend.

Samphire was excellent. Really picturesque spot and everything in the hot was finished in such a high standard. Amazingly relaxing stay.

we enjoyed the comfort and seclusion of this property. The cabin is very well furnished and have no hesitation in recommending it.

Our stay at Samphire could not have been better. The location is great; big skies, open land, next to the water, birdsong, no near neighbours. The interior is beautiful and much better than we had expected. The decor is contemporary, the space is serene. Immaculately clean and had everything we would want. It is easy to get into Colchester, but also to explore Mersea Island with the oyster bars, boats and long beaches.

Our stay was so peaceful and relaxing. We were very lucky with the weather and spent quite a bit of time outside the hut, watching the birds on the water and generally chilling out. Inside the place is tastefully decorated, with Wonderful views and with everything you need really. This is perfect for a few nights to completely get away from things.

Beautiful property in a gorgeous location, gorgeous furnishings and everything you need apart from an oven. Unfortunately there was no hot water until late in the day the evening before we left but the owner was responsive to the problem.

Absolutely stunning and super quiet location! Very high standard of finishings too. Highly recommend this little boat house was a perfect place to stay for our first year anniversary, located in a beautiful little village great pubs near by and mersea island a short drive . The kayaks were a great extra and wished we had got them out for hire sooner all in all a 5 star plus rating and will we be visiting again soon .

A lovely cabin converted to a high standard and in the most wonderful location right above the shoreline. We swam and canoed outside the door (though only about one hour either side of high tide or you get stuck in the mud) and enjoyed the wildlife and total isolation.

Samphire is fantastic. Very relaxing being able to watch the tide come in and out over the mudflats from the comfort of a little, and yet luxurious cabin. We enjoyed day trips to Mersea island with loads of fresh seafood on offer. The bedroom and living area is all open plan. Didn’t go Kayaking (due to being with a toddler), but it does look like it would be great fun. All in all a great base to explore from. Thank you for having us!