Retro cottage, 4 beds, sunset garden, RSPB Wallasea views. Family nature retreat

The Wagtails is a remote coastal countryside retro cottage with three double bedrooms and a mezzanine king bed. It's ideal for nature lovers, walkers, or families looking for open space in nature. Enjoy a private garden with wood stove and sunset views across to Essex Marina and RSPB Wallasea Island reserve. Fully equipped kitchen, spacious lounge, fast Wi-Fi and smart TV. Pair with our neighbouring cottage to sleep up to 14 guests — perfect for group getaways, events or multi-family holidays.

We live on-site in the main farmhouse and are available if you need anything — from local tips to practical help. We're happy to assist with special requests or help organise something memorable. If you're celebrating, planning a surprise, or considering a future event, just ask — we can be as involved or discreet as you like.

If you love walking, nature and relaxing, you're looking at the right place!

Here is a snapshot of what there is around us.

Wallasea Island RSPB - Nature Reserve
There’s plenty to explore on the more than 740 hectares of the reserve and there are six walking trails, with two shelters so that you can sit back and relax while you watch the river. Wallasea Island sits within a Special Protection Area which covers the Crouch and Roach estuaries, which are home to various waders and wildfowl, like Dark-bellied Brent Geese.

Bird Watching:
Wallasea Island is a paradise for birdwatchers. You can spot a variety of species, including avocets, lapwings, curlews, marsh harriers, and short-eared owls. The island is especially popular during migration seasons when numerous wading birds and waterfowl pass through.

Coastal Trails:
The coastal walks around Wallasea Island provide stunning views of the Essex coastline, River Crouch and Roach estuaries, and the island’s unique wetland habitats. The trails are generally easy to moderate, suitable for walkers of all levels. You can expect expansive views of mudflats, saltmarshes, lagoons and the open sea.

Wallasea Island - Seal Watching;
The waters around Wallasea Island are home to a population of seals. Seal watching tours are available, offering a chance to see these marine mammals in their natural habitat.

Essex Marina:
Just 500m away, this is the place to catch the Burnham ferry, a fishing trip or pleasure boat ride. The Wardroom cafe restaurant boasts blissful views across the river, and a fully stocked bar!

Local Pubs and Restaurants:
The Shepherd and Dog in Stambridge (3 miles), Anchor Pub in Canewdon (3 miles) and the Paglesham favourites, The Punchbowl (4 miles) and Plough and Sail (5 miles)

Canewdon - St. Nicholas Church:
The village of Canewdon is famous for its historic St. Nicholas Church, which dates back to the 14th century. The church is perched on a hill, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
The church is steeped in local folklore and is associated with tales of witchcraft and ghostly apparitions.

Stambridge - Fishing Lake:
Stambridge offers a peaceful fishing lake, ideal for anglers looking to enjoy a relaxing day by the water. The lake is stocked with various species, including carp, tench, and bream, providing opportunities for both novice and experienced anglers.

Rochford - Reservoir Fishing:
Rochford Reservoir is a popular spot for fishing where you can expect to catch species such as carp, roach, and perch. The reservoir is managed to ensure a sustainable and enjoyable fishing experience.

Southend on Sea:
Back to the city lights, you'll find numerous pubs, clubs, restaurants and casinos alongside shopping and fun for the whole family on the seafront with arcades, Adventure Island, Sea Life Centre, sandy beaches and the longest pleasure pier in the world

Battlesbridge - Antiques Centre
Battlesbridge is renowned for its large antiques centre, housed in charming old buildings along the river. The centre features a wide range of antiques and collectibles, including furniture, ceramics, and vintage items. A great day out for antique enthusiasts!

And there's more!
Belfairs Public Golf Course and Estuary Bicycle Trail are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Hockley Woods, Belfairs Wood, Park and Nature Reserve and Hadleigh Castle Country Park. Monkey Bizness in Hockley and is also worth visiting with the kids.


Guests will have full access to the entire property, including the garden and outdoor areas. We provide a hassle-free self-check-in process, ensuring a smooth arrival at any time.

Access to the surrounding private farmland and farm buildings is prohibited, walk towards the main road, take a left to enter the Wallasea Island RSPB nature reserve, take a right towards the Essex Marina and wardrooms restaurant bar.

Bedrooms:
The Wagtails features three comfortable double bedrooms plus a charming mezzanine floor with a king-size bed. The standout is the mezzanine above Bedroom 3 — a cozy nook with views across the open countryside toward Essex Marina. It’s a peaceful spot perfect for reading, relaxing, or watching the birdlife from the RSPB Wallasea Island reserve.

Bathroom:
There’s a modern bathroom with a bathtub, overhead shower and WC, there's also a separate WC and wash basin — ideal for families or groups sharing. Fresh towels and basic toiletries are provided to make your stay even easier.

Living Area:
The spacious lounge offers ample room to unwind, with two large leather sofas, a Smart TV, and a dining table — great for mealtimes, games, or winding down after a day outdoors. The space blends comfort with laid-back style for a proper countryside escape with unbroken views through the window across the nature reserve.

Kitchen:
The fully equipped kitchen includes an electric cooker, undercounter fridge freezer, microwave, kettle, and a full range of utensils and cookware. Whether you’re just prepping breakfast or staying long-term, everything you need is at hand.

Garden:
The secluded rear garden faces spectacular sunsets. With outdoor seating, table, a wood stove, and a BBQ, it’s the ideal space to sit out under the stars, dine al fresco, or relax with a drink after a walk.

Extras:
Fast, reliable Wi-Fi throughout
Private parking for up to 4 vehicles


The Wagtails – How to Find Us

The Wagtails can be easily located on Google Maps by searching “Grapnells Lodge.”
We're tucked away at the very end of Creeksea Ferry Road, Wallasea Island, SS4 2HD — a peaceful countryside retreat next to RSPB Wallasea.

Getting Here

By Car:
From Central London: Around 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic.
From the M25, 50 to 60 minutes. Main roads to use are the A127, A13, or A130.
From Southend Airport: A quick 20 minute drive.

By Train:
The nearest station is Rochford, on the London Liverpool Street line.
Journey time from London Liverpool Street: Approximately 1 hour.
From Rochford Station, it’s a 15–20 minute taxi ride through scenic country roads.

Final Directions (Once You're on Wallasea Island):
Drive past Essex Marina,
Continue past Grapnells Cottages
Keep going — you're nearly there!
On your left, look for a white rendered house called Grapnells Farmhouse. Just after it, follow the red brick garden wall as it curves left.
Take the concrete road towards the farm buildings and the Wagtails is the second bungalow next to the farm gates. parking for 3 to 4 cars is in front of the building. The key box is next to the front door.

Taxi:
Andrews Taxis
AC Radio Cabs
Uber is not available in this area

A Quick Heads-Up:
A few times each year, the road onto Wallasea Island can flood at high tide. This is rare, but if it happens while you're approaching, you may need to wait up to an hour for the tide to go down.


One well-behaved dog allowed with prior approval, a pet fee will apply.

No smoking indoors. Outdoor ashtrays provided.

Children are welcome, but very young children must be supervised around the wood stove.

Set just 50m from the RSPB Wallasea Island reserve — ideal for birdwatching and nature walks.

Local tip: Bring binoculars for exploring nearby trails and coastal paths.

Essex Marina: for chartered fishing trips, seal trips, the Burnham Ferry, and a relaxing drink and food at The Wardrooms restaurant bar

Private, enclosed sunset garden perfect for outdoor dining or stargazing.

Hosts live onsite in the main farmhouse and are available for any assistance.

Short drive to Rochford and Southend on Sea

Prior to your stay, we require you to complete a pre-arrival form and sign and agree to our rental conditions.