What’s Lime Tree Cottage like?
This cute clapboard cottage is located in the Essex village of Tillingham. Parts of the property date back hundreds of years but it has been sympathetically extended and renovated to create a spacious two-bedroom holiday home. The waterfront town of Burnham-on-Crouch is approximately a 15-minute drive away.
How dog-friendly is Lime Tree Cottage?
Great. Dogs are very welcome to stay at the cottage and there are no strict rules about where they can and can’t go. Ernie and Stan loved exploring the large secure garden – and meeting owner Tracey and her two dogs, who live next-door. If you have large or reactive dogs, be aware that while the majority of the outdoor space is enclosed by a 6ft-high fence, the boundary line between the cottage and Tracey’s home is quite low and easy to see through. Up to two dogs can stay at a time for no additional charge.
Tell me more about Lime Tree Cottage
With two bedrooms, two bathrooms and a beautiful garden to socialise in, Lime Tree Cottage is the perfect place for families and friends to get together and catch-up. From the front door, you enter into the spacious kitchen/diner with on-trend navy blue cabinets and an original beamed ceiling. This is the oldest part of the house but the cool, minimalist vibe brings it bang up-to-date. When our party of four visited, the large dining room table really came in handy at mealtimes. The oars on the wall also gave the room a quirky, nautical touch.
From the kitchen, a small hallway leads past the family bathroom which, while compact, has a lovely clawfoot bath and more of those original beams. The hallway then opens up into the spacious lounge area, with vaulted ceilings, funky light fittings, colourful wall art and comfy velvet sofas. A set of bifold doors open out directly on to the garden, which has a large decked area and patio table and chairs. It’s a really peaceful spot and it’s lovely to sit out in the garden and hear the local church bells ringing.
Both of the stylish bedrooms are located off the lounge – a roomy double with an en-suite bathroom, and a twin. We were all very taken with the gorgeous en-suite, which had a double-width shower cubicle, standalone tub and complimentary Ecossentials toiletries. During their stay, guests can also enjoy a selection of board games, puzzles and childrens’ toys. There is parking for one car right next to the cottage and plenty of on-street spaces. The cottage can accommodate up to six people, thanks to two additional pullout beds.
What’s the food like at Lime Tree Cottage?
This is a self-catering property so you’ll need to bring your own, but the well-equipped kitchen has all the essentials – such as an oven, kettle and hob – plus a dishwasher and coffee machine with complimentary pods. The cool spray arm tap over the ceramic sink is like something you’d find in a commercial kitchen, and there’s also a gas BBQ for guests to use. The only thing I noticed missing was a freezer – but that was mostly because we visited during the summer months and wanted some ice cubes for our drinks!
If you don’t fancy cooking during your stay, head to one of the two pubs in Tillingham, both of which are dog-friendly and within easy walking distance. The Fox & Hounds, in the main square, serves delicious Thai food several days a week. The Cap & Feathers, slightly further away, also dishes up great pub grub and is renowned for its reasonably priced Sunday roasts. Dog owners should also make a point of visiting The Parlour Cafe, just outside Burnham, which has its own pet-friendly section and a special doggy menu.
Are there resident dogs at Lime Tree Cottage?
No, but if you spend any time in the garden, you’re likely to meet Tracey and her two pet pooches next-door!
Where are the best dog walks near Lime Tree Cottage?
The historic village of Tillingham, with its quaint village square and period properties, is a lovely place to explore on foot. It’s close to the Dengie Peninsula, which is renowned for its big skies, marshes and wild feel. Adventurous dog owners can enjoy a 12-mile circular walk from Tillingham to Bradwell, as recommended by Love Wild Walks. The flat route tracks the coast and has a handful of pubs en-route to break it up.
I can thoroughly recommend a trip to nearby Burnham-on-Crouch, too. The town is roughly a 15-minute drive from Tillingham and Riverside Park is one of its main attractions. This huge open space is a great place for dogs to let off some steam and they can run free in open fields, alongside the marina and on the coastal path into town. There are two free car parks nearby and several dog-friendly pubs and cafes where you can refuel after a good walk.
What Ernie and Stan loved about Lime Tree Cottage
Having a big enclosed space to explore, the peaceful location, meeting the dogs next-door
What I loved about Lime Tree Cottage
The stylish decor, the comfy beds, the lovely garden
How to book Lime Tree Cottage
Breaks start from £180 per night. For more information or to book, visit the Lime Tree Cottage listing on Booking.com.
Looks lovely Ernie and Stan!