Pattiswick Hall Pattiswick

Pattiswick Hall is out near Braintree, on a working farm. It's a big old Grade II listed farmhouse. It's detached and you look out over the fields.

It sleeps sixteen in eight bedrooms. There are four bathrooms, three are en-suite. There's a family bathroom as well. It's got a 5 Star rating, so everything's in good order. The layout is a bit unusual, like a lot of these places. You've got six bedrooms on the first floor, then two more bedrooms and a small kitchenette up on the second floor. That second floor bit is handy if a couple want a bit of separation, or for older kids.

The kitchen has an Aga. There's a games room off it. The living room is big. It's a proper place for a big group, for a family get-together or something like that.

Outside, there's a tennis court and a swimming pool. They're for your use. The pool isn't heated all year round, so check if that matters to you. The garden is yours. You're on a farm, so you'll see tractors and things going about their business.

It's quite remote. The nearest shop is about two miles away. The closest pub is three miles. You'll need a car.

Facilities: there's parking, WiFi, a washing machine, dishwasher, wood burner. Bedding and towels are included. You can bring one dog. There's a cot and highchair if you need them.

For days out, Braintree is close. Colchester is about half an hour's drive, you've got the castle and the zoo there. The Essex coast, like Brightlingsea or Mersea Island, is within 30 minutes too. For local walks and that, the Essex Country Parks site is useful. For heritage, you could look at English Heritage East of England.