Cutters Cottage

Roydon marina, its waterside cafés and restaurants, and woodland walks through Epping Forest are all within easy reach of Cutters Cottage. The 16th-century cottage itself has four bedrooms sleeping up to six, with two bathrooms, a wood-burning stove in the living room, and a rear garden with patio and barbecue. One well-behaved pet is welcome.

Inside, the kitchen is fully equipped for cooking, and the cottage comes with heating, electricity, wi-fi, bed linen and towels all included. Woodburner fuel is supplied. The bedrooms contain a super king, a king, and two single beds. There's a bath and separate shower, so mornings run smoothly. The patio garden faces south and catches the sun.

The location suits anyone wanting easy access to both nature and food. RSPB Rye Meads Nature Reserve, Henry Moore Studios and Gardens, and the Lea Valley Centre (which hires boats) are nearby. Rye-assic adventure park is within driving distance. The cottage is non-smoking. Check-in is after 16:00 and check-out before 10:00.