If you’re craving a break from the hustle and bustle of our capital, we’ve found the ultimate countryside escape that feels worlds away – but is actually just over an hour from London.
Picture this: your own lakeside cabin, steaming hot tub, a private sauna and nothing but birdsong and rustling trees for company. Yes, please.
Tucked away in the rolling fields and ancient woodlands of North Essex, this lakeside retreat is the definition of a hidden gem. Forget stuffy hotels and basic B&Bs – here, you’ll find beautifully designed wooden cabins perched right on the water’s edge, with huge windows that frame the tranquil lake and surrounding trees.
Browning Bros: A family-run organic farm transformed into a luxury escape
Enter: Browning Bros.
Browning Bros is a fifth-generation family farm nestled six miles from Colchester in rural Essex. What was once a childhood playground has been lovingly reimagined into a stunning destination where nature takes centre stage, offering luxury lakeside cabins alongside a variety of unique glamping accommodations.
Lakeside cabins
Browning Bros features two standout lakeside cabins: Kingfisher’s Nest and Water Lily Lodge. Both are designed to blend modern luxury with the serene beauty of nature.
Kingfisher’s Nest is a cozy, romantic cabin perfect for couples. It boasts spectacular lake views, a private hot tub, a sauna, and a unique bathtub in the master bedroom overlooking the water. The cabin’s minimalist design uses natural materials to create a restful, stylish retreat. Guests can enjoy cooking in a fully equipped kitchen, relaxing by the wood burner, and unwinding in the sauna after a day exploring the Essex countryside.
Water Lily Lodge is larger, accommodating up to six guests, making it perfect for families or small groups. This lodge offers three bedrooms, a spacious open-plan living area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a large decking area with a private hot tub and BBQ overlooking the lake.
Glamping experiences
Browning Bros doesn’t just stop at lakeside luxury. On the same organic farm, you’ll find a whole host of other special accommodations like glamping set within orchards and woodlands, perfect for groups, celebrations, or just a unique countryside break.
Teybrook Orchard is home to a collection of charming glamping dwellings including shepherd’s huts, yurts, bell tents, and even a converted grain silo. Each is thoughtfully furnished with cosy beds, wood burners or stoves, and outdoor seating areas with fire pits and BBQs.
The Shepherd’s Hut, a lovingly restored historic hut on wheels, offers a snug double bed and a wood burner, tucked beneath an ancient oak tree for a truly magical hideaway.
The Mowgli and Mufasa Yurts are 18ft Mongolian-style tents that sleep between 1-6 guests. They come with proper beds, beautiful linen, and skylights so you can fall asleep under the stars.
A chance to experience farm-to-fork dining at The Wild Table
Or if you’re lucky, you can book a spot at The Wild Table – The Laundry’s open-fire outdoor dining experience in collaboration with Browning Bros.
After a sold-out spring event which we were lucky enough to experience, The Laundry and Browning Bros are teaming up once again for a three-day fire-cooked feast under the trees at Teybrook Orchard. This autumn’s Wild Table will feature bold, seasonal flavours inspired by earthy roots and late summer fruits, all cooked over open flames and served with wine and candlelight.
You’ll have the opportunity to really indulge in probably some of the best ‘campfire’ food one could ask for and just roll over into your cabin with a very happy and full belly.
And if not, come evening, fire up the BBQ, pop open a bottle of something bubbly, and watch the sunset paint the sky pink over the lake. It’s the kind of place where time slows down and you can really switch off – no emails, no alarms, just pure relaxation.
Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a family adventure, or a solo recharge, this woodland hideaway is proof that you don’t need to travel far to find a slice of paradise. Pack your bags, grab your favourite book, and get ready to unwind – you deserve it.
You can find more information on bookings here.