The Hexagon
Wow… What a Location !
An Ex Radar Tower with an impressive viewing floor where you can see for miles over the Essex Marshes and bird sanctuaries to the sea
No neighbours – totally remote – fabulous location.
… and you can bring the kids if you bring a tent for them to sleep in.
Wow… What a Location !
An Ex Radar Tower with an impressive viewing floor where you can see for miles over the Essex Marshes and bird sanctuaries to the sea
No neighbours – totally remote – fabulous location.
… and you can bring the kids if you bring a tent for them to sleep in.
The Experience - Self Catering At The Hexagon
The Hexagon is an impressive addition of open plan accommodation to the Radar Tower. The location is simply stunning as you are fields away from any neighbours down a farm track leading to the wonderful Essex Marshes and bird sanctuaries.
The Radar Tower and Hexagon stand in a large hedged and fenced meadow surrounded by the owners fields.
The Hexagon is designed to sleep a couple with space for a travel cot…. but f you want to bring children to enjoy this experience then feel free to bring a tent with you, there is a small charge for a pitch from £15 a weekend to £25 per week.
The bird life around you is amazing with Marsh Harriers, hawks, migrating geese, herons, kites, ducks, waders, plovers, larks, owls, egrets and many, many more, all around you.
At the end of the field you are in the Wildlife Nature Reserve with endless walks along the sea wall where you can take in the beautiful changes in landscape from marshy wilderness to hidden creeks and farmland. Looking out to sea or along the Blackwater Estuary you will often see the impressive sight of an historic Thames Barge under Full Sail or a fleet of competing yachts.
It is amazing that this Cottage is near London as it feels a million miles away.
The owners spoil their guests with a lovely English Breakfast basket.
Cottage Walk Through
Cottage Walk through
The Hexagon is a completely self-contained living area all on the ground floor with one en-suite king sized bedroom and a well equipped kitchen .
It is accessed from the entrance to The Radar Tower and guests may use the Tower to take in the magnificent views from a high vantage point over the marshes to the sea.
The owners have put in a wood burning stove and sofas in the top viewing floor for guests to enjoy bird watching and the magnificent sunsets.
There is a sheltered car park for 2 cars next to the Tower and plenty of room for more vehicles.
You access The Hexagon via The Radar Tower, in the large hallway there’s lots of local information regarding the Tower and the local area, with maps of the Nature Reserves and Bird Sanctuaries, there’s also a second toilet off the hallway and stairs to the viewing floor.
You enter the Hexagon from the hallway door.
The floor of the Hexagon is marble tiled throughout with no steps.
There is an en-suite king sized bedroom on your left with a neat shower room.
On the right is a well equipped kitchen with a hatch to access the table in the open plan sitting/dining room.
At the end of the hall is the main open planned sitting and dining room, the whole front of which is glazed with 8 glass folding doors with views out into your meadow and beyond – there are no neighbours 🙂
There is an efficient glass fronted wood burning stove in this room and a lovely large glass hexagon pyramid roof light adding to the elegant spacious feel.
This is a truly Unique Cottage.
Garden
The Hexagon is access via a farm track through 3 field gates which brings you to the old disused railway track leading down to the Hexagon and onwards to the sea wall.
At the Hexagon is a sheltered car park and ramp to the Radar Tower.
The Radar Tower and Hexagon are set in about an acre of meadow grassland which is hedged and fenced for all but the most determined dogs – as cattle are sometimes kept in the field around the Hexagon’s meadow this has in addition electric fencing on the cattle side – don’t worry it’s not dangerous just a slap to keep the cows from eating through the hedge.
If you wish to bring a tent for your children the owners are completely happy with that but please leave the garden in a nice state afterwards.
There is a £15 charge for bringing a tent for less than a week and £25 for a week. Thus adding to the normal sleeping capacity of the Hexagon which is 2 adults.
Outside
The field surrounding The Hexagon belongs to the owners, who are Champion cattle breeders.
The field is adjoined by the Essex Marshes and the Sea Wall, so you have direct access to some of the best bird watching areas in England and miles and miles of some of the best dog walks as well.
The Marina at Tollesbury is about 700 metres away across the fields and takes just a few minute to drive to where you will find a good restaunt and the lovely Sail Lofts cafe and the ‘Woodup’ Tide pool for swimming and making BBQ’s on the beach.
You are fields away from any neighbours 🙂
Green Credentials
Mell Farm, in which The Hexagon sits, has been managed for nature conservation for 25 years. We have planted over 4,000 trees and there is now more woodland on the farm than at any time in the past 100 years. We have raised the water level on the grazing marsh to encourage the winter wading birds, and the grassland is managed to allow cover for the nesting birds in the spring and summer.
Many of our visiting birds are migratory and can travel thousands of miles to this, their winter holiday home.
The Hexagon, which adjoins the historic Submarine lookout Radar Tower, is a new build with underfloor heating and full modern insulation, making it supremely energy efficient.
It is clad in hardwood timber reclaimed from the renovation of Portsmouth docks.
And of course it is self reliant with waste water treatment.
We have started to plant fruit trees in the surrounding area to create a small orchard and are negotiating with a local bee keeper to get some hives.
The cottage is maintained using local labour (cleaner, gardener, workmen), using Ecover products where possible and full recycling facilities are provided.
We encourage all our guests to use the excellent local shops and cafes in the village – all within walking distance.
Local Area
Tollesbury is the nearest village and is at the end of a peninsular created by the river Blackwater’s Estuary and the Tollesbury Fleet with its many small creek’s.
Tollesbury is hemmed in by the mysterious and graphically stunning lunar landscape of the Essex marshes. Indeed the buildings closest to the harbour are built on stilts to accommodate the high tides which swamp the marshes and when the sea simply comes up the road.
There is a nice safe tidal pool that has been created for people to enjoy a swim, canoe or picnic on the created beach just beside the marina.
At low tide you can have hours of fun walking round the endless tide pools of this lunar landscape marshland, past the historic ships, the bright red Lightship and the local working boats and long forgotten hulks – it is a completely different World.
There are some lovely cafes like the ‘The Loft’ or restaurants in the Marina and all the shops you need in Tollesbury.
Dogs & Cats
The owners are happy to accept well behaved dogs and cats and the garden is enclosed and safe for all but the most determined escapologist dog.
… But… Obviously …please be aware that it is very important that you keep your dog on a lead when going into a field with cattle or sheep in and don’t let it splash off the sea wall to scatter rare nesting birds etc
… apart from that you have miles and miles of area to let your doggie run free.
Standard Inclusive Features
Kitchen: all cottages are complete little homes and facilities include modern central heating, refrigerator, hobs, oven and / or microwave, toaster, crockery & serving dishes, cutlery, many utensils, fire-extinguisher, lots of pots & pans, glasses & mugs, kettle, cafetiere, teapot, kitchen towels, oven gloves, olive oil, salt & pepper, sugar, herbs, tea, fresh and instant coffee, washing up liquid, cloths, general cleaning materials, etc.
Bathroom: We provide fluffy cotton towels, bath mats, toilet brush, toilet rolls.
Bedroom: cotton bed linen, wardrobe with coat hangers / chest of drawers, hairdryer.
Living room: A TV, books, games, magazines, local brochures, OS and other maps plus a folder with our special ‘What To Do’ insiders guide to the local area.
Please note that there are no adult bikes available at this cottage as the nearby lanes are not really suitable but there are some small children’s bikes for use in the garden and on the cart-track. This is more of a walking area than family biking.
Babies: Baby cots and high chairs are provided in cottages accepting babies (please bring babies bedding which is not supplied).
Doggie Treats: Water bowl and treat per dog is provided in cottages accepting pets.
Well behaved dogs are always welcome, please refer to All About Bringing Pets for charges, rules and how this cottage may suit your pet.
Facilities
- Barbeque
- Bed Linen Provided
- Cats Accepted
- Central Heating
- Clothes Airer or Washing Line
- Cooker and Hob
- Dishwasher
- Dog Friendly
- Enclosed garden or large dog area
- Freezer-compartment
- Fridge
- Garden
- Garden - Enclosed
- Ground Floor Bedroom
- Ground Floor Shower
- Ground Floor Toilet
- High Chair Provided
- Internet Access
- Iron and Board
- King Size Bed
- Microwave
- Off Road Parking
- Open Fire or Wood Burner
- Shower, Walk In
- Single Storey
- Smart TV
- Television
- Towels Provided
- Travel Cot Provided
- Wifi
Location
Trainline Journey Planner: Click Here
London Liverpool Street station – Witham station = 45 mins
Taxis – at the station or call:
SS Cars Tiptree 01621 817 399
Knights 01376 518 383
Kelveden Cars 01376 573 657
The journey time is 25 Minutes
What the Guests Say...
We had a lovely short stay here and enjoyed the privacy of the plot and the ability to let the dog run around!
As rare and peaceful a place as is possible to find!
The history and atmosphere of the Radar Tower and the stylish comfortable pod tucked away from civilization surrounded by fields and bounded by the Blackwater.
Our first-time exploring Essex and I’ve loved the old Seawall skirting around Tollesbury, the borrowdyke, marshes and creeks and all the birds therein.
It’s a fascinating other-worldly place and a privilege to be able to immerse ourselves, relax and be transported..
Whatever the weather.
Very relaxing stay as in a real remote location. Cottage is cosy and well presented and had everything we needed. Local shops and restaurants a short distance away.
Loved it here! Thanks so much, would return.
Lovely place, exactly as described.
Very quiet and isolated, but not far from civilisation if wanted!
Beautiful place to be very quiet and peaceful, wonderful views.
We have had a thoroughly fabulous wedding anniversary weekend.
Perfect place to reset and unwind.
All been said before…had a lovely few days.
The walk along the coast to Goldhanger and lunch in Chequers Inn is a must.
Location hugely appreicated by our dog.
Coast Inn Mersea Island also worth a visit….as is Mersea Island itself with its wonderful beaches stretching for miles!
Perfectly secluded for a tranquil getaway.
Our dog loved the full enclosed garden and we loved the wood burning stove and cosy feel in this truly unique accommodation.
Will definitely recommend it if you need the break from busy life.
Lovely stay, unique but beautiful cottage with stunning views.
Well equipped with all essentials, welcome basket nice touch and appreciated.
Various things to do.
If you need to get away from the hustle and bustle I highly recommend The Hexagon.
What to say that hasn’t already been said?
Stunning location, great walks, peace and tranquility, who could ask for more? Not us!
I feel the first visit of many more.
Huge thanks and gratitude.
Thoroughly enjoyed every minute.
Our second stay with Grove Cottages.
They are above and beyond other cottage rentals.
Thank you for a wonderfuly stay.
Excellent throughout.
So much thought and effort has been put in.
Vivien also went out of her way to help us with any queries we had.
Nothing was too much trouble.
Brilliant weekend!! We would absolutely love to book again!
Fabulous stay, wonderful environment and just what we expect from Grove Cottages.
Secluded, cosy, comfortable with wonderful walks. A delightful stay in a lovely cosy cottae. Wonderful secluded location which we loved, probably our favourite Grove Cottage to date. Many thanks. Would hope to return.
After a long and tedious journey, how lovely to walk in to gentle classical music floating through the building.
It set the scene for the most relaxed and peaceful seven days.
Such a well appointed, comfortable conversion wtih two whole walls that open to the sun, plus underfloor heating if the typically British weather plays up.
Our dog had the time of her life in the secure surrounding grassed area chasing real and imaginary rabbits.
The owners are completely non intrusive unless there is a problem, so the sense of privacy and isolation is exquisite.
There are ample trails nearby to the village or through an RSPB reserve to the sea wall walk.
If you choose to stay here, don’t miss reading the folder that describes the conversion and the environmental concerns that played a part.
‘Unique’ place to stay, what a history the tower has – and been sympathetically restored to a wonderful holiday home.
We were looking for somewhere special to spend our 24th wedding anniversary and we found it! It’s wonderful that this part of our modern history has been saved and the cleverley designed extension given it a new lease of life. The morning visit by the wagtail family is a delight too!
We’ve had an amazing time at The Hexagon.
Lovely stay here with gorgeous sea walks. Doggies loved it. A great welcome gift of food. Slept so well which is unlike me, must be the sea air. Thank you.
Another wonderful holiday at The Hexagon.
This is our third visit and we can’t wait to come back again, we’ve already booked our next visit.
We had the very best of weather and enjoyed walks, the beautiful scenery, total tranquility, as well as popping out locally.
Highlight as always, the Thames sailing barges and we were here for the Blackwater match race – just spectacular.
Thank you to Vivien as always for the wonderful hospitlity and goodies, much appreciated and very kind.
Extra highlight on this visit were the calves!!
Love, Louise & Will 🙂
Very unusual peaceful place to stay, host gave us all information we required.
Lovely welcome hamper, beautiful location.
Would definitely recommend The Hexagon’ to family and friends.
Beautiful surroundings and peace and quiet.
A word of warning, if you do bring your dogs there are lots of rabbits around.
We will definitely be back in the future.
Wow what a beautiful place to stay.
My husband & I did many walks on the riverside.
Saw many birds & enjoyed the beautiful sunsets and even got to see the Stars at night very clearly
Thank you to The Hexagon and it’s lovely owners.
Take care Krysten
Lovely relaxed stay.
Wondeful walks with our dogs – although they were quite happy just exploring the garden too!
Terrier paradise.
So peaceful.
Thank you for the excellent provisions too – loved the marmalade.
A beautiful, contemplative weeknd walking the Blackwater estuary coastline and watching the calves, lambs and rabbit kits at play on the farm.
Thank you for the delicious provisions!
Great stay, perfect wether, what is not to like? 🙂
Just the most amazing property.
Fantastic views, just incredible.
We all really enjoyed our weekend here, the wildlife and that view.
We enjoyed exploring the surrounding area.
Peaceful relaxing cottage, very private.
Apart from walks, there is no need to leave as surrounded by Nature and wildlife.
Loved the Welcome Pack with the multicoloured eggs and the best loaf of bread we have ever tasted.
We chose The Hexagon because it offered a peaceful setting away from city life and we were not disappointed!
The accommodation is cosy and warm, we sat looking out of the windows and across the fields to the river, so even on the rainy days we felt content.
We enjoyed walking on the marshes and watching the birds.
We didn’t venture out apart from a meal in The Harbour View in Tollesbury, staff were friendly and food was really good.
We leave refreshed and ready to face the world again.
Thank you.
Very clear instructions to find The Hexagon. Vivien was very helpful and accommodating when I called her prior to arrival.
Thank you for the breakfast hamper, we enjoyed a good breakfast on our first morning.
Plenty of local information.
This is a very cosy home, can’t fault it!
A fantastic stay.
Well equpped and unique cottage.
Loved feeling we had a little bit of history to ourselves for the weekend.
Dogs loved exploring the secure garden and watching the rabbits in the next field!
A fantastic spring time break.
One day of glorious sun, walking to Tollesbury the long way around the marshes and drinking champagne in the garden.
One day of reading by the fireside listening to the downpour.
We loved cooking in the kitchen a great size for two!
The binoculars were great for enjoying star watching from the tower – even if it is a bit spooky with the lights out at night!
Superb break in a truly unique place, loved it.
Very relaxing, warm, cosy and peaceful, pub in village good fun.
Some amazing sunrises and sunsets, lovely walks.
Enjoyed the rabbits and birds, hope to come back, thanks so much.
The Hexagon….Wow! A radar tower with sea views.
We received an extremely warm welcome from Vivien.
Everything was spotless and a lovely welcome breakfast basket.
We will definitely be back.
We loved the remoteness and peace and quiet.
Our puppy loved the garden and the fabulous walks along the sea wall!
What a wonderful place to stay!
Fantastically situated for long walks, cosy and bright at the same time.
Everything we needed for a quiet Christmas break.
Very well stocked kitchen and all the things we needed.
Would definitely recommend to others.
We have just enjoyed a fabulous 3 night weekend after a great week spent in June.
Our dogs have loved running round the large, totally secure garden, and the walking along the estuary is idyllic with or without a four legged friend or two.
The accommodation is clean, comfortable and very well furnished, equipped with all you need at any time of the year.
It’s truly a home from home and the perfect tranquil retreat whatever the season or weather.
The views are amazing: wildlife, sunsets and the occasional Thames barge in season (almost all year round).
There is lots to do locally, with loads of information provided both online and within the accommodation itself. Alternatively you can just relax without going off site.
Vivien is so welcoming and helpful, and always provides a very generous (and much appreciated) welcome basket.
We are already booked for two weeks next June and for Christmas and New Year 2023.
Cannot recommend highly enough – for us, needs 6 star rather than 5!
Great location. Very tranquil and great if you like walking.
Accommodation has everything you need and really cosy.
View is peaceful and lots of birds and wildlife to see.
The tower is great to see surrounding area.
Thanks for letting us stay.
Absolutely loved this beautiful place. It’s been on our list for a while!
Great communication from the owners and all things are catered for.
Special shout out to the bed 🙂 sooo comfortable for lazy lie ins.
Absolutely stunning tranquil find.
We will be back 100%!
The building is unique and the location is fantastic, love the views.
Love the peace and quiet.
A wonderful stay on the East Coast.
We look forward to returning to explore further.
Peaceful location to stand still and watch the world go by.
The welcome basket and supplies were fantastic!
Very well equipped cottage.
Lovely house, great location,
welcome basket excellent.
Thanks for everything.
We have loved our four day stay.
Relaxing and peaceful.
Loved the views from the tower.
Whatever the weather it would be great.
Welcome basket a lovely touch.
We will be back.
A very unusual and unique place to stay.
5 star.
An amazing location, so peaceful and restful, exactly what we needed.
Loved the info on the history of the radar tower and about the construction of the accommodation.
Vivien was very responsive and helpful.
We really appreciated the welcome basket the bread was amazing!
Very well equipped and the cottage felt well looked after.
Helpful instructions to find the cottage.
Really lovely supplies in the welcome basket and fridge.
Thank you.
An absolute joy of a property – thank you so much for sharing this gem!
The location is just stunning we loved just watching the changing landscapes.
A doggie paradise for walking and relaxing.
The breakfast basket was fabulous – thank you.
Thank you for a wonderful stay at The Hexagon – such a unique property and really well appointed.
We really enjoyed walking the coastal path and spotting the local wildlife, as well as trying the very local produce!
We’re returning home very relaxed and looking forward to another trip to The Hexagon in the future.
A very interesting and comfortable cottage.
Wonderfully secluded, private and peaceful. Surrounded with great walks.
Easy to find and very well presented and equipped.
We had a wonderful stay and our dog loved the walks and a swim in the sea at Mersea.
It was so relaxing to watch the beautiful sunsets each evening.
My husband loved disppearing to the top of the tower with his guitar, while I relaxed with a book.
Thank you for a relaxing few days in a fabulous setting.
A unique property with the most amazing views – brings the outside in.
Had a wonderful peaceful, lazy, relaxing stay.
Perfect to unwind and release any stresses.
Perfect garden for the dog to enjoy!
Thank you for this wonderful property, The Hexagon is really well thought out and complimentary to the tower!
Dog loved the freedom and the long grass in the garden.
Thank you for the goodies in the hamper and balls for the dog to play with.
The isolated location is perfectly peaceful.
The views are stunning.
Can’t wait to return!
A different view every day! Loved it! Just what the doctor ordered – peace and quiet relaxation and an ever changing landscape.
My husband enjoyed fishing (even though he didn’t catch 😒)Dog loved his freedom and rabbit chasing.
Thanks for the change to stay in this unusual and lovely property.
Thank you so very much for a sublime stay at The Hexagon!
We had a wonderful time celebrating the big 50th birthday.
We all loved the gorgeous walks, breathtaking views, the arrival of the Thames Barge race and the multitude of hares!!! Amazing!
We very much hope to be back soon.
Lovely relaxing place to get away from it all.
It was too warm to do a lot of walking but we enjoyed a trip over to West Mersea.
We enjoyed it as much as our stay in The Wobbin although very different accommodation.
Got some excellent photos of the sunrise from the tower.
Thanks Vivien for the welcome pack.
We will certainly come back.
Fabulous accommodation, amazing location, would definitely stay again.
We have had a quiet, relaxing stay.
Enjoyed the beautiful views, sitting in the garden.
Three visits to the butchers – fabulous steaks.
The Kings Head pub for a drink – locals very welcoming.
Enjoyed a lazy lunch at The company Shed – excellent!
The property is lovely, appreciated the welcome basket – thank you.
Have seen plenty of bunnies in the garden and enjoyed seeing the cows over the fence.
Would love to return soon.
The accommodation was more spacious than it looked on the website pages (unusually!).
Lovely and quiet and peaceful.
We appreciated the quality of the towels, bedding and general furnishings.
The kitchen was well equipped too.
Beautiful, peaceful, isolated and surrounded by fabulous countryside.
This is the perfect relaxing getaway. Doing nothing is not overrated – it’s needed to recharge run down batteries and that’s what this cottage is all about.
A delightful and charming place with an enclosed garden.
Our dog Jimmy loved chasing the rabbits and observing the cows in the neighbouring fields.
As our first visit to Essex this was a positive one.
Wonderful, relaxing holiday viewing many bird species, exploring the area on foot and an overall fantastic stay.
A superb and peaceful location.
Despite plans to go exploring, some days we just wanted to stay ‘home’ to enjoy views, wildlife and peace.
Eddie (the dog) in his element running in the grass and watching the cows and rabbits.
Everything we needed in the house – thank you.
So peaceful, a really special place to restore equilibrium in your life!
Thank you.
We appreciated the eco friendly cleaning products etc.
Wonderful getaway, peace, quet, bird watching paradise and lovely area for dog walks.
The Hexagon has been a wonderfully unique ideal stay for us.
We brought all our food so just relaxed and walked the dogs – perfect weekend!!
Would love to come again.
Our dogs loved having our sole attention.
Lazed in the lovely safe garden.
Dogs also had a blast chasing rabbits.
Highly recommend and will definitely return.
Can’t fault anything!
Fabulous place! 10/10.
The Hexagon is delightful and there are good things to do nearby, including the Maldon Smokehouse, the Bradwell circular walk and Beeleigh Abbey gardens.
Other things we’ve enjoyed include all the rabbits running around; the views back to The Hexagon from various walks, including the Bradwell one.
The hamper was great – thank you so much.
Expectations of The Hegaon were high before we arrived – however all expectations were surpassed!!
What a fabulous place!
Seafood at The Company Shed didn’t disappoint.
Many thanks Vivien for your excellent introduction to the surrounding area and the provisions were most welcome.
We were lucky with the weather. Atmospheric storms and snow viewed from our cosy nest. Then sunny fresh air when we walked.
Walking round the sea wall and strolling round Goldhanger – rewarded with idyllic creek and boat club.
Everyone really friendly, sunrises amazing.
A wonderful relaxing break and breakfast supplies an appreciated touch.
We’ll be back!
Thank you!
A wonderful place to stay – we feel very lucky to have found you.
The welcome hamper was a real treat and we loved the different coloured eggs!
We’ve walked and walked as far as Barrow Marsh to the west via The Chequers Inn at Goldhanger and then to Old Hall Marshes overlooking West Mersea in the other direction.
Seen loads of amazing birds, marsh and hen harriers, great white egret and a glossy ibis, nice to see hare and of course lots of lovely rabbits.
We’ve been so lucky with the weather gorgeous sunny days, we will definitely try and come again.
Thank you for creating such a beautiful, tranquil place.
A lovely new cottage making use of a historic monument.
The views from the tower are amazing – bring binoculars!
We received a very warm welcome from Vivien. Amazing property with well equipped kitchen. Clean facilities with excellent views across the water to Bradwell and West Mersea. Lovely relaxing week, thank you.
Peaceful, quiet, idyllic stay, sunrise and sunsets alike. Surrounded by wildlife and space.
Loved classic fm on the radio, in fact we left it on all week!
Great walks everywhere, loved it.
Beautiful location, fantastic walks and views are stunning.
Everything was all that we could have wished for thank you.
We loved it.
This is an incredible property and all of our needs were fully catered to!
A wonderful stay in the most beautiful of locations.
Coming from London we needed a break and the clean air and whirling wind coundn’t have provided a better setting.
Thank you for the welcome basket! The eggs and bread sustained us.
We also enjoyed setting a fire and learning about the history of the incredible property.
Thanks!
Lovely stay “away from it all” even if we actually live 40 minutes away!
Cosy and warm, no need for phones/TV when you have big skies and clouds hurtling past!
Lovely weather, we even had breakfast (in our coats) outside on the patio in the winter sunshine!
Thank you Vivien for the welcome basket of goodies and for the well stocked kitchen and bookshelves!
A very memorable 50th birthday weekend exploring the coastline from a height and with binoculars!
I’m sure we’ll be back and will recommend to friends and family.
Thank you.
Loved our coastal walk to Tollesbury and welcomed our lunch at The Harbour View.
We had sunny breakfasts in the dining room and cosy suppers by the fire in the evenings.
Brilliant! Thank you!
The Hexagon is a beautiful, completely secluded location perfect for a romantic weekend away, surrounded by nature.
We even saw a fox hunting right outside the window!
Truly wonderful location that I will be recommending to friends and family.
Lovely cottage, lovely setting and a lovely way to see in the New Year.
Thank you for the warm welcome and welcome basket – very nice.
Enjoyed our walk around the sea wall with a pit stop at Tollesbury marina for coffee.
Happy New Year and all the very best for 2022.
Thank you so much for your welcome and an absolutely wonderful stay.
The welcome hamper was really thoughtful and the helpful tour through the (customised!) local OS map was great.
We enjoyed walks along the sea wall to Tollesbury marina one day and across fields to Goldhanger and back along the estuary another.
We are far from knowledgeable birders but still enjoyed the hundreds birds we saw.
Wide open skies and cobweb blowing winds – perfect Twixmas tonic. Happy New Year 🙂
What a perfect place to spend Christmas, a real treat. Perfectly kitted out in every way and with wonderful walks and views to while away a peaceful Christmas day.
The welcome pack when we arrived was amazing – especially the eggs;bacon and bread, they made great bacon butties!
Many, many thanks again for the use of the wonderful Hexagon and for being such fantastic hosts!
A beautiful place in an amazing location.
Endless walks along the estuary/coast from the door, absolute peace and quiet and warm and cosy indoors with fabulous views.
A warm welcoming host and everything we could need.
We have had the most wonderful stay in The Hexagon.
It is the perfect place to relax and unwind with lovely coastal walks, views and peace and quiet, would love to stay longer and will be recommending to all our friends.
We came in search of solitude, peace, relaxation and beautiful coastal walks.
The Hexagon ticked all of those boxes.
What a beautiful retreat for decompressing and rebalancing.
The views, the sunsets, the wildlife and the beautiful cows were all spectacular.
Raised in North Norfolk, we have previously overlooked this corner of the east English coast but we leave vowing to return and explore more than we could pack into a weekend
Lovely peaceful location with great views. Great arrival pack and the lemon cake is super. Had a great meal at the Harbour View. I’m sure we will come back another time
We’ve really enjoyed a wonderfully relaxing stay in this amazing place. It was our first visit to Essex and we’ve had a great time exploring the area. The wildlife has been great – 71 species of birds, including 27 from the cottage itself plus numerous sightings of the local fox, deer and goats. Thank you to Vivien for the delicious welcome pack!
We really enjoyed our stay at The Hexagon. Perfect location for exploring the marshes and the marina. Very relaxing, Vivien was a great host.
A wonderful return visit at the height of summer after our previous visit in the depths of winter. Just as fantastic! Lovely to see the cattle, rabbits, fox, deer and buzzard and hear the cuckoo (and the sheep). We barely went out – excellent cake and marmalade, thanks Vivien!
It’s all about the big views and being away from it all…literally. Wonderful walks at their best at high tide. We really enjoyed the cattle and their daily routines around The Hexagon. It’s so private, peaceful and quiet…with a wonderful feeling of space and openess. We really enjoyed it! Best lemon drizzle cake we’ve ever had – the view of the water is pretty important too……
The Hexagon is a surprisingly tranquil and isolated retreat within easy reach of civilisation. The only neighbours to intrude on the solitude are cows, rabbits and birds – making a perfect bolt hole to write that awkward ‘second novel’.
We had the most enjoyable and relaxing break. The whole experience of staying here was just perfect. Fully recharged, thank you so much
Thank you for the most perfect short break in a totally unique and idyllic location. A truly special place to spend our 30th wedding anniversary. The tower and accommodation are spectacular, the welcome basket goodies irrestible! Loved the wildlife – the nightly fox and the muntjac deer. Thank you, we will definitely be back
A wonderful wild, windy week at The Hexagon. Oodles of wildlife and a joy to hear cuckoos in spite of their dastardly nature. The same goes for the muntjac deer. Lucy the greyhound loved it, chased the rabbits on the first day then ignored them. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay
The setting is incredible, both of The Hexagon and the fantastic marshes. There are great walks and we were surrounded by wildlife including countless rabbits around the building. The photos and description do not do justice to the place. It is so quiet and feels so secluded. Vivien was a fantastic host. We were welcomed with a basket of food and logs for the fire
We had a wonderful stay. The welcome basket was a lovely touch and the lemon cake was superb. The Hexagon is a wonderful place to stay – quiet and peaceful and with only the sound of birds. Excellent walks and perfect for birding. We can’t wait to stay here again. The Hexagon felt like a home from home, rather than a holiday let. Everything surpassed our expectations. We would definitely book through Grove Cottages again
Early May in The Hexagon, couldn’t think of anywhere better to be. Fabulous views, amazing wildlife and extraordinary places to live in. Avocets at Old Hall Farm were a real treat. Can’t wait to come back
A wonderful location even when its wild and windy. Thank you for the wonderful welcome pack – especially the lemon drizzle cake – yummy -:)
We’ve had a wonderful stay – the location is so relaxing, we’ve been able to get lots of lovely walks in. As everyone says, the welcome pack was fantastic – the eggs were particularly delicious. We’d love to come back sometime for more big skies and avocets!
Wonderful stay, so peaceful. Early morning walks to marshes and the old pier for dogs to swim. Born and bred Tollesbury so we know the area well, good to be “home”. We will definitely be back. Wonderful, thanks
Excellent property, very warm welcome from Vivien. Dog friendly walks from the door. ice to have a choice of short breaks instead of weekly stays. Would recommend The Wobbin to friends and looking forward to returning next year
Such a peaceful, tranquil and restorative retreat. We have had a wonderful time and do not want to leave
Thank you for a wonderful stay. We really enjoyed being here, watching the cows, birds and the big sky whilst savouring the delicious cake and other welcome basket goodies.
The Hexagon was our third ‘Grove’ property and we loved it. Amazing views, glorious walks and a perfect blissful spot. Can’t wait to try the next one on the list!
The Hexagon was our third ‘Grove’ property and we loved it. Amazing views, glorious walks and a perfect blissful spot. Can’t wait to try the next one on the list!
As before a wonderful home to stay in, calm and relaxing. Plenty of lovely walks weather permitting. Everything you need and great hospitality from Vivien. We’ll be back again
Thank you for an absolutely beautiful place, perfect to forget all about the world for a few moments….the tower is fantastic, loads of space for our dog to run. The living space for us was perfect. The views all around are absolutely breathtaking. We enjoyed the very inquisitive cows! We will return, probably in winter to see the very special geese 🙂 Take care
Although we live not far away this really is a hidden gem. Only noises were cows, birds and the occasional plane. The perfect place during Covid!
This is our second time in The Hexagon, having had a perfect holiday here the previous year. This place has so much to offer and has been a perfect time away for us. We will be back!
A unique property with oodles of character, plenty of comfort with terrific views. Thanks to Vivien for a warm welcome and looking after us
Warm welcome, very thoughtful touches and an extraordinary building with a fascinating history. A great area to explore too. Thank you Vivien & Andrew for your hospitality
Weather was ‘mediterranean’ this weekend. Spent much of the weekend outside with the peacocks and other wildlife. Enjoyed a bit of tennis – thank you for the lovely white wine in the fridge
We’ve enjoyed everything about The Hexagon. The secluded space with its calming atmosphere ensured complete relaxation. The tower with its link to history and panoramic views took everything to another level. The circular walk to Tollesbury Marina was really good. We went when the tide was in and it took us about 2.5 hours, the dog loved it! Thank you Vivien for your excellent communication and the lovely welcome basket – much appreciated
A great getaway after the difficulties of the past weeks. Lovejoy welcome from Vivien – thank you for the delicious welcome pack and cake. We have enjoyed the birds and other wildlife, cows looking curiously at us and rabbits running about all day long! A very comfortable and cosy place with everything we needed, thank you
A very comfortable and cosy hideaway in seclusion with great views and walks. A historic and unusual place which has been sensitively modernised. Great for dogs, as garden is fully enclosed.
Beautiful spot. Enjoyed just sitting and watching and listening and sunshine and fires. Thanks
A great couple of days away from it all – reading, eating and dog walks. We loved the landscape, and thought the welcome pack of food was fab! Thank you Vivien
This lovely historic tower/cottage is the ideal place for a peaceful break. Watching boats, rabbits and the odd stroller on the sea wall. A relaxing break, thank you Vivien for your welcome
What a wonderful spot to spend a few days – even in February – gorgeous cottage and surrounding walks all around the marshes – great birding – thank you so much for all the lovely touches, foodie parcel etc ! Sure we’ll be back sometime – Many Thanks Gill Richie & Mar
Stunning location on Tollesbury marshes nature reserve, teeming with birdlife and with view in all directions. Warm and spotless accommodation. We love this place! The Hexagon is brilliant with such stunning views, we didn’t want to leave. Perfect bird watching retreat!
Great place to stay. The view is amazing and it’s so quiet. Shopping in Tollesbury supplied all we needed on top of the welcome basket. Good job we brought wellies for the various walks. We’ll come back for a high tide.
What a special cottage The Hexagon is. We were lucky to have plenty of spells of sunshine, and cosy evenings in, while the wind howled dramatically outside. We are sorry to leave and already thinking of our return. Thank you for a wonderful stay, we cannot recommend this place highly enough
It shouldn’t take you long to realise The Hexagon is a gem. Fabulous accommodation topped off with lemon cake and the nicest wood burner I’ve ever experienced. We didn’t venture far, simply enjoying the little bit of history, wildlife, walks and the village. Thank you Vivien
Lovely welcome from Vivien on our arrival. Peace and tranquility All round stunning views and great walks for our dog. Already recommended to friends for future breaks. Stunning accommodation
The Hexagon is the perfect retreat for a couple. Vivien & Andrew are kind and helpful hosts who provided us with amazing local and home produce. Will definitely come back!
The setting is wonderful and just what we expected. Vivien was an excellent host , giving us lots of advice about where to walk, places to visit and places to eat. Thank you!
Absolutely stunning views. Beautiful cottage done to a high spec – love it! Stunning views in all directions. Nice tea at the tower after a brisk walk. This is our 14th weekend away in a Grove Cottage – cottage!
Had a good stay in this interesting holiday let. This is the 10th different stay at one of the Grove Cottages. Best wishes for the future
Perfect place to relax and decompress. The Hexagon is a gem. The tranquility, the views and the wood burner made it an ideal cosy break. Fab cake and marmalade! Thanks
What a find! So luck to be one of the first few people to stay. So tranquil. Lovely to be able to come back and light a fire on a bitterly cold day. Wonderful welcome hamper. Plenty of fresh air and walks. Looking forward to hopefully returning in warmer times.
We have been to a number of the locations with Grove Cottages but this one is truly the best and such a little gem. We have truly made some amazing memories here as a family. Thank you so much Vivien for making our stay so wonderful. We have been to a number of Grove Cottage locations but this is simply the best, a real gem 5*
Perfect accommodation in a beautiful peaceful setting. Vivien was very informative re the local area on arrival and a lovely selection of food provided. The views are wonderful and watching the sunrise in the mornings spectacular. the walks are perfect, so quiet and peaceful here. A bird watchers paradise. Will definitely return
An excellent new addition to Grove Cottages. A place to find peace and quiet by the Blackwater estuary.
We had a most enjoyable stay in the peace and quiet of The Hexagon. A good way to celebrate our wedding anniversary! There is plenty of wildlife and walks to explore and boats to watch on the river. The view from the tower is a bonus. We had a lovely welcome from Vivien
Lovely cottage and tower. Great views and walks. Greatly enjoyed
Thank you for sharing this beautiful place with us
Our first visit to this area and we loved it. Looking forward to a return visit in a different season. We enjoyed walks along the sea wall, visit to the Sail Loft tea room and West Mersea for the seafood. A fabulous place to stay – perfect peace. Thank you
Historical building renovated to an exceptional standard. Has the best of old and new, the tower and new living space. The property has everything you need for a great holiday away from home, plus views second to none. The panoramic views are outstanding, the local walks are picturesque, we’re definitely disappointed to be leaving so soon – we’ll be back!
Wonderful peaceful place for a break away from the builders! Recommend the walk from Curly’s Perch to the Marina (about an hour), along the seawall. Sunday lunch good at Habour View Bistro and lovely cake at the Sail Loft. Felt very luck to stay at this new holiday let – thank you x
This is unique accommodation in a beautiful setting. The shower is good, kitchen well equipped and really clean. The radar tower offers excellent views, peace and quiet
Another idyllic weekend through Grove Cottages! The Hexagon is the perfect hideaway for a peaceful, cosy, secluded escape from it all. Thank you so much for hosting us this weekend. Rob and I absolutely loved our joint birthday getaway and were a little smitten with The Hexagon! It couldn’t have been any better
Great escape! Wonderful walks. Loved seeing the wild areas left for nature and that wild bird mixes had been sown along headlands. Enjoyed time on West Mersea walking and watching the wildlife. Thanks so much
This lovely peaceful corner of Essex is the perfect place for a total ‘chill’ experience. The Hexagon is a truly beautiful and unusual place to stay
We were lucky enough to be the first visitors to the historic Hexagon – what a find! Stunningly beautiful walks in every direction, guided by the custom OS map. We saw so many marsh harriers and gorged on sweet blackberries right from the hedgerows. Plenty of welcoming, dog friendly pubs nearby. Don’t miss sunrise and sunset from your own personal tower – truly memorable. The large garden was perfect for our dog. This beautiful, unspoilt area gave us the peace and quiet we needed. Thank you Vivien, we can’t wait to return.
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