Guests say
Guests consistently praise The Gate House for its cosy, well-decorated interiors and welcoming atmosphere. The property is noted for its quiet, picturesque countryside setting, with easy access to local walks and towns. Hosts Fiona and George receive commendation for their attentiveness and hospitality. Some minor issues are mentioned, but overall, the experience is highly regarded.
There is insufficient information in the reviews to accurately assess the cleanliness of the property.
The location is highly praised for its peacefulness and beauty, with several guests appreciating the quiet country lane and proximity to countryside walks. The local area is described as pretty, and the property is well-situated for excursions.
The majority of guests find the beds comfortable and the property cosy, especially noting the fireplace. However, some guests mention a lack of comfortable seating in the lounge and a small wait time between showers due to water supply, slightly affecting the comfort score.
Facilities are generally well-received, with a well-equipped kitchen and strong WiFi. However, some guests note limited clothes storage in bedrooms, a small lounge area, and a need to wait between showers. The quick resolution of a dishwasher issue reflects good maintenance.
Hosts are commended for their thoughtfulness, providing a warm welcome, generous supplies, and assistance when needed. Gifts such as an Easter egg are mentioned, enhancing the guest experience, though it is politely noted that such gestures are not guaranteed.
About this property
Tucked away on the outskirts of Colne Engaine, Colchester, is this delightful three-bedroom cottage, The Gate House. A former wellness centre settled on a working farm, The Gate House enjoys a superb location within easy reach of Colchester, Dedham Vale, Suffolk Coast, Heaths AONB, Lavenham, Sudbury, Clare and Hadleigh, making it a fabulous pet-friendly choice for a group or family of six wanting to explore the area. Be welcomed in the spacious and well-equipped kitchen, where you can rustle up family favourites, ready to enjoy around the dining table for six as the conversation flows and the wine is poured. After dinner, retreat to the sitting room, where you can relax on the plush seating in front of the Smart TV, whilst your pooch takes up their favourite spot in front of the open fire. The ground floor is completed by a handy cloakroom. Head upstairs, where you can wash away the day in the gorgeous shower room, before retiring to one of three beautifully presented bedrooms, two king-size and a twin. Explore the village, where you can treat your loved ones to a meal at the welcoming Five Bells pub, or stock up on essentials at the village shop. For a wider variety of dining options, head to Halstead, where you can indulge in a sweet treat at The Little Book Café, Turkish cuisine at The Shiish, Japanese at Yoshi Haru and American delights at Pheonix Arizona. Continue on to Earls Colne, where you can enjoy wildlife walks through the Colne Valley Local Nature Reserve, test out your swing at the Colne Valley Golf Club, or dine at the award-winning Lion Brasserie. Further afield, you can explore the bustling city of Colchester, where you can spend a fun-filled day at Colchester Zoo, visit the historic sites of Colchester Castle and St Boltoph’s Priory, picnic in Castle Park, or indulge in fine dining at one of two Michelin Star restaurants, Kintsu and Church Street Tavern. For a luxury escape to Essex, choose The Gate House.
Colchester's Colne Engaine is a picturesque community nestled between Halsread and Wales Colne. The quaint community has a variety of useful features, such as the Five Bells bar, a well-stocked general store, a recreation field, and a green. Colne Valley Golf Club, Colne Valley Local Nature Reserve, The Lion, and Malda may all be found in neighbouring Earls Colne, which boasts a broader variety of entertainment options. Keep on to Halstead, where you can enjoy the Empire Theatre, Greenwood Park, and Halstead Public Gardens, as well as a wide variety of dining options such as The Shiish, The Curry Cottage, Yoshi Haru, Pheonix Arizona, and The Locomotive. St. Boltoph's Priory and Colchester Castle are two of the city's historic landmarks worth exploring, and there are many other attractions in and around Colchester to enjoy as well, such as the National Trust's Bourne Mill, the Lexden Springs Nature Reserve, the Colchester Zoo, the Highwoods Country Park, and the Colchester Golf Club.
Accommodation
Three bedrooms: 2 x king-size, 1 x twin.
Shower room with walk-in shower, basin and WC.
Cloakroom with basin and WC.
Kitchen/diner.
Sitting room with open fire
Central heating.
Oven, hob, microwave, fridge/freezer, dishwasher, coffee machine.
Smart TV, WiFi.
Fuel, power and starter pack for open fire included in rent.
Bed linen and towels included in rent.
Off-road parking available.
One well-behaved pet welcome.
Sorry, no smoking.
Shop 1.1 miles, pub 1 mile
Nearby points of interest
- East Anglian Railway Museum
- Great Notley Discovery Centre And Park
- Colchester Zoo
- Colchester Castle Museum
- Kentwell Hall
- University of Essex
Reviews (15)
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Andrea
What a fabulous part of the world.
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Andrew
The hosts were very friendly and helpful. The cottage was easy to find and the parking arrangements were straightforward. The rooms were clean and tidy, with lovely decor. We would be happy to stay here again.
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Laura
The cottage was perfectly situated for all our excursions and our hosts, Fiona and George, were absolutely fantastic.