What’s Shell Beach Holiday Home like?
This cosy, three-bedroom caravan is just steps from the beach on peaceful Mersea Island. From the moment you walk through the door, it’s clear that the owners, Andy and Dani, have put a lot of love into the van. Shell Beach Holiday Home is located on Coopers Beach Holiday Park, which is managed by Parkdean Resorts.
How dog-friendly is Shell Beach Holiday Home?
Very good. Ernie and Stan were thrilled to find two bags of treats waiting for them when we arrived and there were also dog bowls and puppy pads, just in case you need them. The caravan has an enclosed deck at the front where you can sit and watch the world go by – although be aware that there is no direct access from inside. The van is surrounded by green space though and handily, some bins are also close by. Up to two small dogs are welcome to stay for no additional charge.
Tell me more about Shell Beach Holiday Home
Booking a caravan break can be a bit of a lottery as you never quite know what you’re going to get, but Shell Beach Holiday Home has everything you could possibly need – and then some. It feels like a real home from home with lots of personalised touches throughout, from quirky cushions and fluffy rugs to framed prints and artificial plants. There’s Netflix, a reliable park WiFi connection and a selection of books, games and DVDs for rainy days. Lamps provide softer lighting and there are even complimentary slippers to enjoy.
While the three bedrooms in the holiday home are a little on the cosy side, they are all spotlessly clean. And when we stayed in mid-October, there were teddy fleece sheets on the bed, which were super cosy. Complimentary toiletries are provided in the bathroom – which has a generously sized shower cubicle – and there’s also a separate loo for guests to use. You will need to bring your own towels though, so don’t forget them! The van has central heating, plus extra heaters and fans, and there is plenty of parking available outside.
What’s the food like at Shell Beach Holiday Home
The holiday home is let on a self-catering basis so you’ll need to bring your own – but you will find a lovely welcome pack waiting for you when you arrive. Ours included a bottle of wine, some biscuits and sachets of hot chocolate. The van has everything you need to cook up a storm though, thanks to its full-equipped kitchen. As well as all the essentials like an oven, toaster and microwave, there is also an air fryer and a Dolce Gusto coffee machine.
If you don’t fancy cooking though, there are plenty of places to eat out nearby. Mersea Barns, at the top of road leading down to Coopers Beach, has a gorgeous cafe that serves amazing breakfasts and lunches – and sells lots of local produce and crafts in the shop. Dogs are welcome in the light and airy garden room. The Dog & Pheasant in East Mersea also has a whole room set aside for pets and their owners and serves tasty, home-cooked pub grub.
Are there resident dogs at Shell Beach Holiday Home?
No, but Andy and Dani have four chihuahuas – Dot, Minnie, Boycie and Elsa – so you may well meet them on changeover day!
Where are the best dog walks near Shell Beach Holiday Home?
As the name suggests, the holiday home is close to the beach – and it is literally a two-minute walk away. Follow it for approximately 20 minutes at low tide and you’ll end up in Cudmore Grove Country Park. This lovely nature reserve overlooks the Colne and Blackwater estuaries and has lots of historic features left over from WWII, such as pillboxes. There is also an excellent play park for children and the surrounding cliffs are great for fossil-hunting.
If you fancy a longer walk though, Mersea has plenty to offer – and if you’re feeling energetic, you can even hike around the whole island, which is five miles long and two miles wide. This Mersea Island Walking Map has seven trail suggestions that are suitable for all abilities though, ranging from 1.5 miles to 3.5 miles. For more suggestions when it comes to things to see and do, check out my Ruff Guide to Mersea Island.
What Ernie and Stan loved about Shell Beach Holiday Home
Being so close to the beach, the yummy dog treats, watching the world go by from the window
What I loved about Shell Beach Holiday Home
All the homely touches, the welcome pack, the quiet location
How to book Shell Beach Holiday Home
Stays start from £70 per night. A two-night minimum applies. For more information or to book, visit the Shell Beach Holiday Home Facebook page.