Sleeps 8 | 3 bedrooms + sofa bed | Private island | Outdoor pool | Private beaches | Cinema room

Overview of Chapel House One

Chapel House One is a characterful holiday cottage on Osea Island, a private tidal island in the Blackwater Estuary near Maldon, Essex. Sleeping eight guests across three bedrooms and a mezzanine sleeping area, the cottage offers an unusual coastal holiday experience with access to private beaches, a seasonal outdoor swimming pool and a variety of shared leisure facilities.

The property sits within the island's village, a collection of distinctive cottages and historic buildings surrounded by coastal countryside. Chapel House One forms part of a pair of linked cottages, alongside Chapel House Two, and can be booked independently or together with its neighbour for a larger gathering.

A holiday on Osea Island begins with a memorable journey. At low tide, an ancient causeway connects the island to the mainland. When the water covers the crossing, access can be arranged by water taxi. The tide determines arrival arrangements, giving visitors a different experience from a conventional holiday cottage break.

Inside, Chapel House One has a traditional cottage layout, with a separate lounge, dining room and kitchen on the ground floor.

The lounge is a welcoming room with comfortable seating, a fireplace and television. It provides somewhere to relax after exploring the island, while the separate dining room offers a sociable setting for meals and evenings together.

The kitchen has an electric cooker and hob, fridge freezer, microwave and dishwasher, together with a washing machine for longer stays.

There are three conventional bedrooms, comprising two doubles and a twin room. An additional mezzanine sleeping area contains a sofa bed, allowing the cottage to accommodate eight guests in total.

Two bedrooms and the main family bathroom are on the ground floor, while the second double bedroom, shower room and mezzanine occupy the first floor.

Outside, Chapel House One shares a garden and decked seating area with Chapel House Two. Tables, chairs, a barbecue and fire pit provide an attractive setting for outdoor meals and evenings together.

The island's shared leisure facilities are among its strongest attractions. Guests can enjoy an outdoor swimming pool during the warmer months, while The Shack provides a cinema room and games facilities.

Complimentary bicycles are available for exploring the island, along with sports equipment for family games.

Osea Island has approximately 4.5 miles of coastline, with private beaches, saltmarshes, meadows and woodland creating a beautiful natural environment. It is particularly appealing for walking, cycling, beachcombing and watching coastal wildlife.

The seasonal Puffin pub adds another distinctive element to the island, offering a traditional setting for drinks when open.

For families and friends looking for a large holiday cottage in Essex with an unusual island location, Chapel House One combines comfortable accommodation with a memorable range of outdoor activities.

Chapel House One at a Glance

Who is Chapel House One Best For?

Chapel House One is particularly well suited to families looking for an unusual holiday with plenty of outdoor activities.

The seasonal swimming pool, private beaches, bicycles and sports equipment provide opportunities for days spent exploring and enjoying the island. The cinema and games room add entertainment for evenings or less favourable weather.

Two families sharing will appreciate the combination of two double bedrooms, a twin bedroom and an additional mezzanine sofa bed. The separate lounge and dining room provide comfortable communal space.

Groups of friends may particularly enjoy the island's distinctive atmosphere, coastal scenery and opportunities for socialising in the shared garden or seasonal pub.

The mezzanine sleeping area is an important consideration when planning a full group of eight. It offers less privacy than a conventional fourth bedroom, making it especially suitable for guests who are comfortable sharing an open sleeping space.

Dog owners will appreciate the coastal paths and extensive opportunities for walking.

For larger gatherings, Chapel House One can be booked with Chapel House Two, creating accommodation for up to sixteen guests, subject to availability.

Why is Chapel House One a Great Large Holiday Home?

• Private island location: Enjoy a memorable holiday on Osea Island, surrounded by the Blackwater Estuary, beaches and coastal wildlife.
• Flexible accommodation for eight: Three bedrooms and a mezzanine sofa bed provide sleeping arrangements for families and friends.
• Seasonal outdoor swimming pool: Guests can use the island's shared pool during the warmer months.
• Private beaches and coastal walks: Explore approximately 4.5 miles of shoreline, with opportunities for walking, beachcombing and sea swimming.
• Cinema and games room: The Shack provides shared facilities for films, pool and table football.
• Shared garden with barbecue: A furnished outdoor area and fire pit create a pleasant setting for meals and evenings together.
• Bicycles and sports equipment: Explore the island on complimentary bicycles or enjoy cricket, croquet and other outdoor games.
• Accommodation for larger groups: Book alongside Chapel House Two to accommodate up to sixteen guests across the linked cottages.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many people does Chapel House One sleep?

Chapel House One sleeps eight guests. There are three bedrooms, comprising two doubles and a twin, plus an additional sofa bed in the first-floor mezzanine area.

How do guests reach Osea Island?

Access is controlled by the tide. The causeway connects Osea Island to the mainland at low water, while a water taxi can be arranged when the tide covers the crossing. Arrival arrangements must follow the island's tidal timetable.

Does Chapel House One have a swimming pool?

Yes. Guests have access to a communal outdoor swimming pool, normally open from May until September.

Does Chapel House One have a cinema and games room?

Yes. The Shack has a shared cinema room and games area with a pool table and table football. Daytime communal use is available, while private evening hire may be arranged at additional cost.

Is Chapel House One dog-friendly?

Yes. Up to two dogs are welcome, with an additional charge of £30 per dog per week.

Can Chapel House One be booked with Chapel House Two?

Yes. Chapel House One and Chapel House Two are linked properties that can be booked together, subject to availability. Each sleeps eight, providing combined accommodation for sixteen guests.

Bedrooms & Bathrooms at Chapel House One

Chapel House One sleeps eight guests across three bedrooms and an additional mezzanine sofa bed.

Two bedrooms occupy the ground floor, while the third bedroom and mezzanine are on the first floor.

The bedroom arrangement includes two doubles and a twin room, making the cottage particularly suitable for families and mixed groups of adults and children.

There are two bathrooms, with a family bathroom downstairs and a separate shower room upstairs.

Group Accommodation Layout

Bedroom 1: Ground-Floor Double Bedroom

Bedroom 1 is situated on the ground floor and contains a double bed.

Its position close to the main living accommodation makes it convenient for parents, grandparents or another couple sharing the cottage.

The ground-floor family bathroom is nearby, providing bathing facilities on the same level.

The arrangement may appeal to guests who prefer ground-floor sleeping accommodation, although anyone with specific access requirements should check the property's layout before booking.

Bedroom 2: First-Floor Double Bedroom

The second bedroom occupies the first floor and contains a double bed.

It provides another sleeping arrangement for a couple or adult family members.

The first-floor shower room serves this bedroom and the nearby mezzanine sleeping area.

Its position upstairs provides some separation from the two ground-floor bedrooms.

Bedroom 3: Ground-Floor Twin Bedroom

Bedroom 3 contains two single beds and is situated on the ground floor.

It is particularly suitable for children, teenagers or two friends who prefer separate beds.

The bedroom is conveniently positioned close to the ground-floor family bathroom and main living areas.

For two families sharing, the ground-floor double and twin bedrooms can form a useful sleeping arrangement for parents and children.

Mezzanine Sleeping Area

The mezzanine provides two additional sleeping places on a sofa bed.

Located on the first floor, it allows Chapel House One to accommodate eight guests while maintaining three conventional bedrooms.

This area is particularly useful for children, teenagers or guests who are happy to sleep in a more open space.

As the mezzanine is not a separate enclosed bedroom, it offers a different level of privacy.

Groups should consider this when deciding how to allocate beds.

The first-floor shower room is nearby.

How Does the Layout Work for a Group of 8?

Chapel House One is particularly suitable for two families sharing accommodation.

One family can occupy the ground-floor double and twin bedrooms, while another couple can use the first-floor double bedroom. The mezzanine sofa bed provides sleeping space for two further guests.

For groups of friends, the two double bedrooms can accommodate two couples, while the twin room and sofa bed offer additional arrangements.

The main consideration is the mezzanine sleeping space, which may be less suitable for guests who prefer a fully enclosed private bedroom.

The separate lounge and dining room provide communal accommodation for everyone to gather.

Outside, the shared garden offers another space for spending time together.

Larger groups requiring additional bedrooms can consider booking Chapel House Two alongside Chapel House One.

Bathroom Layout

Chapel House One has two bathrooms.

The ground-floor family bathroom contains a traditional roll-top bath with a handheld shower attachment, washbasin and WC.

The first-floor shower room has a shower cubicle, washbasin and WC.

This provides a bath, separate shower and two toilets for the group.

Guests staying in the upstairs double bedroom and mezzanine can use the first-floor shower room, while the ground-floor bathroom serves the remaining bedrooms.

Facilities & Information at Chapel House One

Chapel House One combines comfortable cottage accommodation with access to Osea Island's distinctive range of leisure facilities.

The property has separate living and dining rooms, a well-equipped kitchen and a shared garden with barbecue facilities.

Beyond the cottage, guests can enjoy a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, cinema room, games facilities, bicycles and extensive coastal walking.

Comfortable Lounge with Fireplace

The ground-floor lounge provides a welcoming space for relaxing together.

Furnished with a sofa and armchair, it has a fireplace and television for comfortable evenings at the cottage.

The room is particularly appealing after a day exploring the island's beaches or cycling along the coastal paths.

Its traditional layout creates a pleasant atmosphere for reading, conversation or watching films.

Separate Dining Room

The dining room provides a dedicated area for family meals and time together.

Its position between the main living accommodation and staircase makes it a central part of the cottage.

Guests can enjoy breakfast before setting out to explore the island or gather for evening meals after a day of outdoor activities.

The separate arrangement also gives the group more flexibility over how they use the living accommodation.

Kitchen and Self-Catering Facilities

The kitchen is equipped with an electric cooker and hob, fridge freezer, microwave and dishwasher.

A kettle, toaster and washing machine provide additional convenience.

The facilities are suitable for preparing family meals and managing laundry during longer stays.

Osea Island's tidal access makes advance meal planning particularly important. Guests should bring suitable groceries and consider when they will next be able to travel to the mainland.

Shared Garden, Barbecue and Fire Pit

Chapel House One and Chapel House Two share an outdoor garden and decked seating area.

Tables and chairs create a pleasant space for outdoor dining, while a barbecue provides opportunities for relaxed meals during warmer weather.

A shared fire pit adds another enjoyable feature for evenings outdoors.

The arrangement is particularly attractive for guests booking both cottages together, allowing a larger group to spend time outside.

Seasonal Outdoor Swimming Pool

The island's communal outdoor swimming pool is one of the main leisure attractions.

Normally available between May and September, the pool provides opportunities for swimming and family activities during warmer months.

It is particularly appealing for guests travelling with children or groups who enjoy spending time in the water.

The pool is shared with other island guests.

Cinema and Games Room at The Shack

The Shack provides a range of indoor entertainment facilities.

Its cinema room offers opportunities to watch films, while the games area has a pool table and table football.

These facilities are available for communal use during daytime hours.

Private evening hire may also be arranged for an additional charge.

Having these facilities on the island provides valuable entertainment for families and groups during their stay.

Cycling and Outdoor Sports

Complimentary bicycles are available for guests to explore Osea Island.

The island's approximately 4.5 miles of coastline provide attractive routes for cycling, walking and discovering different parts of the island.

A communal sports shed contains equipment for croquet, rounders, swing ball, cricket, football, volleyball and other outdoor games.

Families can enjoy friendly competitions on the island's open grassed areas.

Additional paid activities may be arranged, including boating, fishing, watersports and clay pigeon shooting.

Private Beaches and Coastal Wildlife

Osea Island is surrounded by beaches, tidal flats, saltmarshes and coastal habitats.

Guests can explore the shoreline, enjoy beachcombing or take a swim in the Blackwater Estuary when conditions are suitable.

The island is particularly appealing for wildlife enthusiasts, with numerous birds visiting the surrounding mudflats and saltmarshes.

Wooded areas and meadows offer further opportunities to enjoy the natural surroundings.

The island's tidal setting creates a constantly changing coastal landscape, especially around the exposed shoreline at low water.

The Puffin and Private Events

The Puffin is the island's traditional pub and opens seasonally.

It provides a characterful setting for drinks and socialising when available.

Osea Island also has unusual event spaces, including The Bomb Factory and The Power House.

These venues can be hired for private events by arrangement, with additional charges applying.

Parking and Practical Facilities

Parking is available at Chapel House One, with additional spaces elsewhere on Osea Island.

Gas central heating, electricity, bed linen, towels and WiFi are included.

Guests should bring separate towels for the swimming pool and beach.

A telephone is provided, and mobile reception is generally good.

Electric vehicle charging is not available on the island.

Arrival arrangements must be planned around the tide, particularly when travelling by car or carrying luggage.

Facilities

Category	Facilities
Lounge	Sofa, armchair, fireplace and television
Dining	Separate dining room
Kitchen	Electric cooker and hob
Kitchen Appliances	Fridge freezer, microwave and dishwasher
Small Appliances	Kettle and toaster
Laundry	Washing machine
Bedrooms	Two doubles and one twin
Additional Sleeping	Mezzanine sofa bed
Bathrooms	Ground-floor family bathroom and first-floor shower room
Garden	Shared outdoor garden and decking
Outdoor Dining	Tables and chairs
Barbecue	Shared barbecue
Fire Pit	Shared outdoor facility
Swimming Pool	Communal seasonal outdoor pool
Cinema	Shared cinema room in The Shack
Games Room	Pool table and table football
Cycling	Complimentary guest bicycles
Sports Equipment	Croquet, rounders, cricket, football and other games
Beach	Private island beaches
Coastal Walking	Approximately 4.5 miles of coastline
Pub	The Puffin, seasonal
Heating	Gas central heating
Internet	WiFi
Telephone	Provided
Parking	At the cottage and elsewhere on the island
Pets	Up to 2 dogs welcome

Important Information

Information	Details
Maximum Occupancy	8 guests
Property Type	Cottage within a pair of linked properties
Bedrooms	3
Additional Sleeping	First-floor mezzanine sofa bed
Bathrooms	2
Ground Floor	Lounge, dining room, kitchen, double bedroom, twin bedroom and bathroom
First Floor	Double bedroom, shower room and mezzanine
Accessibility	Ground-floor bedrooms and bathroom; check individual access requirements before booking
Island Access	Tidal causeway or arranged water taxi
Arrival Time	Determined by tide times
Departure Time	10am
Preferred Changeover	Saturday
Flexible Arrival Days	Available
Minimum Stay	2 nights
Swimming Pool	Shared outdoor pool, May to September
Cinema	Shared daytime access
Games Room	Shared daytime access
Private Evening Hire	May be arranged at additional cost
Garden	Shared with Chapel House Two
Barbecue	Shared outdoor facility
Fire Pit	Shared outdoor facility
Bicycles	Complimentary use
Private Beaches	Available to island guests
Parking	At cottage, with additional island parking
EV Charging	Not available on the island
Dogs	Up to 2
Dog Charge	£30 per dog per week
Bed Linen	Included
Towels	Included, excluding beach and pool towels
Electricity	Included
Gas Central Heating	Included
WiFi	Included
Telephone	Provided
Mobile Reception	Generally good
Additional Activities	Boating, fishing, watersports and other activities by arrangement
Seasonal Pub	The Puffin
Additional Accommodation	Chapel House Two, subject to availability
Combined Occupancy	Up to 16 guests across both cottages
Booking Arrangements	Final booking confirmation required before making dependent travel plans
Short Breaks	Available from 2 nights

Location & Things to Do Near Chapel House One

Chapel House One is situated on Osea Island, a private tidal island in the Blackwater Estuary near Maldon in Essex. Surrounded by saltmarshes, tidal creeks, meadows and shingle beaches, the island offers a distinctive coastal setting for families and friends who enjoy walking, cycling and wildlife.

The journey to the island is part of the experience. At low tide, an ancient causeway connects Osea to the Essex mainland. When the water rises, the crossing becomes submerged and access can be arranged by water taxi. Guests should plan arrivals and excursions carefully around the tidal timetable.

Once on the island, there is plenty to explore without leaving its shores. Approximately 4.5 miles of coastline provide scenic walking and cycling routes, with opportunities to discover quiet beaches, wooded areas and open meadows.

The surrounding Blackwater Estuary is particularly rewarding for birdwatching. Waders and wildfowl feed across the mudflats and saltmarshes, while the island's quieter habitats attract other birds and wildlife.

The private beaches are popular for beachcombing, stone skimming and sea swimming when conditions are suitable. Families can also enjoy the outdoor swimming pool during the warmer months, explore the island on complimentary bicycles or use the games and cinema facilities.

For mainland excursions, Maldon is an attractive historic town with a strong maritime heritage. The waterfront at Hythe Quay is famous for its traditional Thames sailing barges, while the town centre has independent shops, cafés and restaurants.

Maldon's Promenade Park provides another family-friendly destination, with riverside walks, open lawns and children's play facilities.

Heybridge Basin is particularly appealing for waterside walks and refreshments. The canal lock, boats and surrounding estuary scenery create a picturesque setting, with opportunities to follow the Chelmer and Blackwater Navigation.

Nearby Goldhanger offers another traditional Essex village to explore, with countryside lanes, historic buildings and village pubs.

The broader Dengie Peninsula has attractive rural landscapes and peaceful coastal walks, while the Blackwater Estuary is renowned for its maritime heritage and wildlife.

The main consideration when visiting mainland attractions is the island's tidal access. Guests should check crossing times carefully, allowing sufficient time to return before the causeway becomes submerged.

With its combination of private beaches, outdoor activities, wildlife and unusual island access, Chapel House One provides a memorable base for a large group holiday in Essex.

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