Guests say
The Bull Pen is a beautifully presented cottage in tranquil countryside, praised for its immaculate cleanliness, stylish décor, and peaceful setting. Guests consistently highlight the comfortable bed, well-equipped kitchen, and private garden, making it ideal for couples seeking a relaxing break. The property is conveniently located for exploring Essex and Suffolk, with scenic walks and attractions nearby. Hosts are welcoming and attentive, and thoughtful touches such as homemade scones and fresh flowers are frequently mentioned. Minor suggestions include improved bathroom accessibility and a blind for added privacy, but overall, guests thoroughly enjoy their stays and often return.
Cleanliness is repeatedly described as 'spotless', 'immaculate', and 'very clean' by nearly every reviewer, with no negative comments. The high standard of cleanliness is a standout feature.
The location is highly praised for its peacefulness, beautiful countryside, and proximity to local attractions, walks, and villages. A few guests mention the lack of a pub within walking distance, but this is noted as a minor issue.
Guests consistently mention the cottage's comfort, especially the quality of the bed and bedding. The property is described as cosy, quiet, and relaxing. A couple of guests noted the bathroom's distance from the bedroom and the deep bath as minor concerns.
Facilities are described as excellent, with a well-equipped kitchen, quality furnishings, private garden, and thoughtful amenities. Maintenance is praised, with the property and grounds kept to a high standard. Occasional suggestions for minor improvements are noted.
Many guests mention thoughtful touches such as homemade scones, jam, clotted cream, and fresh flowers on arrival. While these gestures are frequently appreciated, it should be noted that such gifts are not guaranteed for every stay.
About this property
This luxurious barn conversion makes a great base for exploring Constable Country and the stunning scenery that was the artists inspiration.. 1 step to entrance.
All on the
Ground Floor:
Open plan living space.
Living area: 32" Freeview Smart TV, DVD Player, Woodburner
Dining area.
Kitchen area: Electric Oven, Electric Hob, Microwave, Fridge/Freezer, Dishwasher
Bedroom: Kingsize (5ft) Bed
Bathroom: Bath With Shower Over, Heated Towel Rail, Toilet.
Gas central heating (underfloor in bathroom), electricity, bed linen, towels, Wi-Fi and logs for wood burner included. External utility room with washing machine and tumble dryer (shared with owner). Welcome pack. Lawned garden with patio and BBQ. Private parking for 1 car. No smoking. Please note: There is a fenced pond in the garden, 200 yards away.. The Bull Pen is a lovingly restored barn conversion in the delightful village of Lawford close to the Suffolk and Essex borders. Ideally placed to explore both counties whilst enjoying a luxurious base, comprising open plan living space and wood burner, with views across the surrounding fields from the patio area. This is a detached, single-storey conversion making it ideal for those less mobile. Situated in the grounds of the owner’s home, you are tucked away in a corner and will enjoy all day sunshine from its south facing aspect.
Close by you will find Dedham, set by the River Stour which is in the heart of Constable Country. The high street is lined with Georgian fronted houses, old inns, fine restaurants and superb architecture. The Stour Valley itself is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and perfect for walks and drinking in the landscape, famous for inspiring the artist John Constable. You can also hire a boat, visit the many art exhibitions or the impressive Dedham church, a 15th-century church that stands proud in the middle of the village.
Further north is Colchester, the oldest recorded town in Britain, where some of the most important events in British history have taken place. As you walk through the town there is 2000 years of history to discover, mixed with shops, restaurants and attractions. A short drive to the east you will find the quintessential British seaside towns of Frinton-on-Sea and Walton-on-the-Naze. Beach 15 miles. Shop 1¼ miles, pub and restaurant 3 miles.
The laundry facilities are shared. The property is pinpointed on the map incorrectly, it is actually 600 yards south of the marker.
There is open water in the property grounds.
Nearby points of interest
- University of Essex
- Colchester Castle Museum
- Bicester Village
- Colchester Zoo
- Ipswich Museum
- Christchurch Mansion
- Ipswich Transport Museum
- East Anglian Railway Museum
- West Mersea Beach
Reviews (41)
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Confirmed Guest
Super holiday property. Lovely, well equipped accommodation & welcoming owners.Highly recommended.
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Confirmed Guest
Overall very good cottage. My personal problem was that the bathroom was at the far end of the cottage from the bedroom. As I need the bathroom several times in the night I found this a bit of a chore. This is a personal negative, I think it may not be a problem for the majority.
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Confirmed Guest
The accommodation was first class . Everything you needed was carefully thought out down to luxurious bedding.The garden was so peaceful, just what we needed living surrounded by noise.If we get the chance in future we have no hesitation in a return visit.What we thought would be interesting is an album showing photos of before and after renovation .