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Stunning sea views in the Essex marshes over the sea wall next to nature reserve

Photo gallery for Stunning sea views in the Essex marshes over the sea wall next to nature reserve

Quirky house over the sea wall
View to East
Kitchen
Sunset taken from sun deck
Beach

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedroomsSleeps 6861.1 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Washer
  • Dryer
  • Kitchen
  • Outdoor space
  • Free WiFi

Explore the area

Map
lee-over-sands, Essex
  • St. Osyth Beach
    ‪11 min drive‬
  • Jaywick Martello Tower
    ‪15 min drive‬
  • Clacton-on-Sea Beach
    ‪51 min drive‬
  • London (SEN-Southend)
    ‪87 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bedroom 1

1 Double Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Double Bed

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Balcony
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Stunning sea views in the Essex marshes over the sea wall next to nature reserve

The Beach House is situated on the Essex Sunshine Coast next to a Nature Reserve right on the bank of a tidal creek with stunning views of the sea in front and the river behind. The huge, usually empty, beach is just over the creek so you can wade over (barefoot or in wellies if you prefer - there are some pairs at the house but bring your own if you can) at low tide or walk down to the end of Beach Road to the nature reserve and through to the beach. Or you can stroll through the reserve, along the beach and back along the sea wall or stop and bird-watch from the hides or the sun deck. A booklet is in the house along with binoculars and bird books if you don’t know a plover from a pigeon. We have a list of birds spotted (34 in one weekend including Marsh harrier, linnets, Reed buntings, oystercatchers and kestrel) and can email it to you if you ask. Jaywick is about 20 minutes walk along the sea wall (about 30 minutes along the beach) where you will find pubs, shops and amusements.


The Beach House is in the tiny hamlet of Lee-Over-Sands which is about three miles from St Osyth and about five miles from Clacton-on-Sea in Essex. There are two bedrooms (a double bed with washbasins in each), a large living room with integral kitchen and an upper sun room and deck with wrap-around views of the sea and river. The house is clean and comfortable and the Seventies-style shower won’t be winning any design awards but is actually very efficient. There's parking for two or three cars along the side of the house and a slipway into the creek for the nautically-minded.

The real joy is the sheer tranquility, waking up in the morning to flocks of geese and sitting in the sun room or on the deck gaping at the views over the creek, sea, river and marsh. At night sit in the nautically-themed sun room and watch the ships’ twinkling lights or gaze at the spectacular night sky including the occasional shooting star.

We are very flexible, extremely friendly and we genuinely want others to share this unique spot so just ask. Most things are possible!

Property manager

Elizabeth Montague-Black.

Languages

English
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Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Free WiFi
Outdoor space
Parking available

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Linens are not included in our rates but are available to hire should you wish. Many guests prefer to bring their own.
Linens to hire: £20 double bed for two including two sets of towels; £17 for one person; £10 per bunk and £5 for bath mat, hand towel and tea towels
Please note that the house is two miles off the main road over the fields on a fairly rough and then unmade road. Driving slowly is essential.

Important information

You need to know

This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business or profession.
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a first aid kit and a deadlock

We should mention

A car is recommended for transport to and from this property

About the area

Clacton-on-Sea

Located in Clacton-on-Sea, this holiday home is near theme parks and near the beach. Princes Theatre and West Cliff Theatre are cultural highlights, and some of the area's activities can be experienced at Tenpin Bowling Colchester and Birch Grove Golf Club. Clacton Pier and The Wheel Experience are also worth visiting. Waterskiing and windsurfing offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with hiking and mountain biking nearby.
Map
lee-over-sands, Essex

What's nearby

  • St. Osyth Beach - 11 min drive - 8.3 km
  • Jaywick Martello Tower - 15 min drive - 9.0 km
  • Jaywick Sands - 16 min drive - 11.3 km
  • Clacton Pier - 17 min drive - 11.2 km
  • Clacton-on-Sea Beach - 51 min drive - 12.1 km

Getting around

  • Colchester Great Bentley Station - 14 min drive
  • London (SEN-Southend) - 87 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪The Creek - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪The Rosebud - ‬20 min drive
  • ‪Never Say Die - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪The Kings Head - ‬19 min drive
  • ‪Wick Lodge - ‬12 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Stunning sea views in the Essex marshes over the sea wall next to nature reserve pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Stunning sea views in the Essex marshes over the sea wall next to nature reserve?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Stunning sea views in the Essex marshes over the sea wall next to nature reserve?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Stunning sea views in the Essex marshes over the sea wall next to nature reserve located?

Situated by the sea, this holiday home is within 3 miles (5 km) of St. Osyth Beach, Jaywick Martello Tower and Jaywick Sands. Princes Theatre and West Cliff Theatre are also within 9 miles (15 km).

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 54 out of 60 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 6 out of 60 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 60 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 60 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 60 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Alan H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

So peaceful

This is a house with real character- we loved being here; in fact it took us a few days to explore the area just because we were all content hanging out here. I loved the upstairs room; great views and could watch the wildlife and boats. Looking forward to seeing what the refurbished version looks like but it very quickly felt like home to us. If you’re looking for peace and quiet and a cosy nest to base yourself in - this is the place for you.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Sheenagh

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A little oasis of calm

My husband and I stayed for a weekend at The Beach House. The instructions we received from Elizabeth were very detailed and useful. The house does become cut off a high tide so it's important to read the instructions carefully. The house is in a perfect location. Nothing but wildlife around you. So many birds we lost count of the varieties that we spotted. The house is cheerful and cosy, equipped with all mod cons (broadband, Netflix, good kitchen facilities) and nice comfy beds. But, truthfully, it's the experience that is more important even than the house itself. :Lovely views, good walks and an ever-changing landscape with the ebb and flow of the tide. I think we all need a stay here! We are bombarded by bad news and doom and gloom every day. At the Beach House you can forget all that stuff and just relax and enjoy the views. I can't wait to go back. I understand Elizabeth is planning some refurbishment and whilst I think that is lovely, I would stay again just as it is.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Liz M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fantastic house on the marshes

We loved the Beach House and it's location. The sundeck overlooking the creek towards the beach was a great place for staring out to sea and enjoying meals. It had everything we needed for a quiet, relaxing weekend away. Surrounded by nature and lovely places to visit
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Tony S., Canterbury

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Superb!

We just loved it, the property was exactly as we expected, the peace and quiet was wonderful, the only noise was that of the wind, waves and bird calls. If you want a get-away-from-it-all holiday then this is it, however it you want fruit machines, disco nights and such like it’s probably not your cup of tea!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Catherine S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Remote old fashioned holiday.

Remote property but near to London, away from civilisation and near the beach. Our children enjoyed the tidal creek and mudlarking on the beach.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

Paul S., Chelmsford

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

“A little bit of Heaven on Earth “

This quirky property has everything you could possibly want for an “ Away from in all “ break by the sea It’s isolation is it’s selling point with just the weather and wildlife for company. Sitting on the decking we saw Egrets fishing Hares dashing across the open countryside and a flock of Starlings weaving their magnificent patterns in flight Elizabeth made sure we had all the information we needed for our safe arrival and departure and also for our stay nothing was to much trouble for her .This House has to be seen to be believed and my Wife and I can’t wait to return
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2021

10/10 Excellent

Ella K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Stunning location. Cosy stay

Absolute gem! Gorgeous view. Beautiful kitsch property. Quiet getaway. Communication with Elizabeth was great!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2021

10/10 Excellent

Warren H.

Wonderful location

What a perfect way to while away a weekend. A super location, lovely and quiet. Waking up to a view like this is really quite special!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2018

8/10 Good

Barbara B.

stunning location

perfect to escape everyday's life. Big views, big skies, big beach, big marshes. Lovely walks.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2018

8/10 Good

chris n.

Very good, and good location

Great time , peaceful location
Stayed 2 nights in May 2018

10/10 Excellent

Alison J.

The perfect seaside retreat to escape from it all and recharge your batteries.

The house is so lovely, comfy, homely and well equipped. There are stunning views across the creek and dunes to the sea from nearly every room. The beach goes on as far as the eye can see and so quiet it feels like your own. We're already planning our next visit!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2018
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Roger Y., Derbyshire

Cosy no frills cottage in idyllic location. Ideal for getting away and back to nature

We had a lovely (all too short) time with this cottage as our base. It had everything we needed, all was clean and beds really comfortable. Nice to have wash basins in rooms too... The location really is away from everything and I can imagine sitting on the top deck drinking a glass of wine (or something warmer) whilst watching and listening to nature all around. We had some lovely walks down through the bird sanctuary and along the coast, hardly ever seeing another person. Hopefully we can come back for longer and spend more time relaxing on the deck... One last thing - Elizabeth was extremely helpful and responsive in relation to any questions. ☺️
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2017
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Sally Marchant

Remote, Rural, Rustic...Perfect.

We had a lovely stay in this quirky beach house. The peace and quiet of its rural location is wonderful. Waking early in the morning to the ever changing views of sea, creek, light and shade and the plaintive calls of the curlews was mesmerizing. The house is extremely warm, well equipped, with everything you could possibly need, and we had excellent communication with the owner before, during and after our visit. The beach across from the creek was utterly deserted when we walked over there, and if you want to get away from it all, this might be the place for you. I suspect we will be back...Magical.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2017
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

8/10 Good

Keith S.

Gorgeous views and perfect location.

Only had two nights free but this was definately what we needed. Kids on school trip so a bit of R&R for me and the Mrs. Really quite with great access to the beach (if you don't mind a bit of wading or swimming depending on tide). We waded first day the walked into Clacton, took about 2 hours at a leisurely pace. Swam over creek second day and went in sea. Accomodation is made special by the sun room on the roof, we spent most of our time there. Clean on arrival and free tea and biscuits as a welcome treat. Would definately recommend for a "get away from it all" time.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2017
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Becky C.

Fabulous property that gets you away from it all

We had a fabulous stay at the beach house. It was fun, comfortable and relaxing. The house has good facilities and is lovely and quiet. We had a great time.
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Nigel H.

Total peace and quiet in an idyllic setting

If you're looking for an opportunity to get away from the crowds and to be surrounded by nature, then this place is hard to beat. You're made fully aware of the rhythm of the tides and how the wildlife reacts to it. There are options of walking and cycling to enjoy the area. Within Colne Point Nature Reserve, extensive walks (tide permitting) are at your doorstep, with options towards along the coast towards Clacton. Options are increased further if you you have a small boat or kayak. Views from both the terrace and the balcony are stunning and tempt you to hang around, rather than venture further afield. The accommodation is comprehensive and we found everything we needed for cooking, relaxing and enjoying ourselves. TV and Broadband allowed us access to the outside world on the few occasions we were inclined. Comprehensive instructions ensure all runs smoothly, and communication with the owner and housekeeper (if necessary) are good. We aim to return soon!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2016
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Adrian O.

Perfection. Real British seaside escape.

Just wonderful. The setting is unique. True feeling of separation from the world - something we usually have to travel a lot further than this to achieve. The marsh wildlife is stunning - if birds are your thing, then you don't have to leave the top deck. If seals are your thing, then you don't have to leave the bottom deck. If deserted ( that's DESERTED) beaches are your thing then cross the creek and walk in either direction for miles. The house is superbly equipped and wonderfully quirky but such a part of the landscape that it all feels normal. My instinct is not to tell anyone about it to keep it a secret. Too good to be a secret.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2016
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Isabel Jones

Unique and wonderful

We absolutely loved this wonderful wooden house, and really want to return. The light on the top viewing platform is extra-ordinary, a real cheer to the spirits at this time of year. Loved the care, and attention taken by the owners, fab communication, well equipped, clean, spacious, and even better than we expected. Such and incredible location, both interesting and peaceful. We are composers, and felt so inspired we did a composition with the house as central, we were the envy of friends and fellow artists all over the UK and beyond. Thank you so much!!!! Isabel and Duncan
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Sarah L.

Beautiful, wild, rugged coastline retreat.

What a find! Perched right on the beach, with a creek to cross - just to add to the adventure, this property is remote yet accessible. The upper deck was perfect. Even the rain didn't dampen the views. We are already looking forward to planning a return visit. Excellent communication from the owner allowed us to find it in the dark too!
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

8/10 Good

Martyn G.

Remote, quiet, splendid escape

Easy to find, extremely clean and well equipped, this is a super place to get away from it all. You'll need a car because there is nothing in walking distance, but that's perfect if you want to get away from it all. Warm and comfortable, the upper deck offers lovely views – even in bad weather it's fascinating to gaze out. The owners provided an excellent service, checking that all was well, providing lots of useful information. It's misses out on the full-house five stars due to the fact that while there was wireless internet, the bandwidth was so tiny, you couldn't even stream music let alone Netflix or some other cosy entertainment on the dark nights. Otherwise, highly recommended.
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

David T.

Deliciously 'Seaside' Shabby Chic!

The photographs of the Beach House cannot do this wonderful holiday rental justice. The natural weathered shiplap exterior hides a cosy and warm environment. Sure the house is 'quirky', is the wrong side of the seawall, and isolated - but that is what makes staying there so great. The experience is summed up by our first morning. When we opened the curtains in the front bedroom we were greeted by the sight of two Little Egrets fishing the creek right outside, two hot air balloons on the horizon and a Thames Barge under full sail. There is much to be said for this house, and we will be going back. Why don't you try it because the best reviews are in the guestbook! A couple of tips: To save packing food etc, try Click and Collect from a national supermarket chain whose name starts with a 'T', it's in Clacton just 5 and a half miles away. If you are taking a computer, log onto 'vessel finder' and enter Brightlingsea into the Ports tab, you will then have the track, name and destination of the ships you will be watching from the glorious upper deck sunroom. You have got to give this a try
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2015
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Adam H.

Peaceful

Had a relaxing time and look forward to coming again. Ideal to take in the views whilst reading a good book or for exploring the nature reserve and great beach. If you want to go further afield best you don't expect much from Jaywick, Seawick or Clear Point though. We miss the great view, birdlife and stars at night.
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Frank G.

NEW YEAR at the Beach House

When we arrived, we all were very lucky, that we have booked it. We booked it for one week, over New Year. In this week we have had very good weather, so that we did some walks on the beach. The house it self is very good, in all points, kitchen, sleeping-rooms, bath and last but not least the upper sunroom. We always talked about the "Captain's Deck". In the whole week we used the TV only once, for the NEW YEAR count down and our traditional "Dinner for one" film, that is original from the UK and in Germany the "must" for NEW Years evening. This was the only time, that we have used the TV, there was so much to see from the "Captains Deck". Never the less, if we were on the deck or down in the living room, there was always someone standing at the window and watching the wildlife. For this time of the Year, the house was very cosy. We were in nature. Many thanks to to whole team for making it feel perfect, especially thanks to Belinda. A good place to enjoy the coast of Essex.
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

8/10 Good

pauline B.

Remote and Essex in the same heading

Stayed at the house for a long weekend. Despite very miserable weather, the house was comfy, warm and well equipped. Plenty of opportunity to watch birds and so peaceful.. would love to come again in summer.
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Katie L.

Wonderful.

We loved it here, and so did our young children. It was peaceful and watching the tides come and go was very relaxing. I'd thoroughly recommend it.

About the host

Hosted by Elizabeth Montague-Black.

Host profile image

Languages:

English