Browning Bros Glamping in the heart of Essex and so much more…

Luxury Glamping at Browning Bros

When you’re in need of a little R&R, the Browning Bros have the ideal chill-out zones in the heart of Essex, UK. There are two log cabins in Chalkney Water Meadows, surrounded by countryside and sitting on the side of a lake. These cabins are appropriately named Kingfisher’s Nest and Water Lily Lodge. Your stay here is a complete return to nature, with an abundance of wildlife and forestry, yet you’re but a stone’s throw from Colchester and not a million miles outside of London.

Browning Bros is a family-run business situated on their organic family farm, Teybrook Farm, in the North Essex countryside. The care and consideration when booking is first-class, easy and efficient.

Kingfisher’s Nest: A Cosy Couples’ Retreat

We stayed for two nights in the Kingfisher’s Nest cabin, ideal for couples. It has a king-size bed, en-suite shower room, and a kitchenette kitted out with all the necessary pots, pans, crockery, cutlery, kettle, toaster, and fridge. If you don’t want to go anywhere, just load the cabin up with your own goodies and have a romantic evening overlooking that hidden lake.

The biggest bonus is the superb outdoor jacuzzi, warm and bubbly—it eased away our aches and pains. But that wasn’t all; there is also a sauna. This was like having your own private spa, and we took advantage of both heat treatments, all while watching the sun go down over the lake and sipping a cocktail.

The cabin was warm and cosy, due mainly to the log burner, which was most welcome as it was a chilly evening. We slept like babies in the comfy bed, and the peace and quiet were incredible—not something we’re used to. We were just woken by the sound of ducks and geese.

Dining at The Barn Brasserie

On our second evening, we were invited to the other family-owned business, The Barn Brasserie, about 20 minutes’ drive from the cabins in the pretty village of Great Tey. As the name suggests, it is a barn, but this was probably the most impressive and sophisticated barn you’ll ever see, with high ceilings, original beams, and metalwork that gave a truly authentic atmosphere.

The attention to detail was so stylish: the lighting was amazing, the decor chic, and the ambiance relaxed and glamorous. The cuisine was on a different level—the menu delicious, and dare I say, for the quality served, it really was not expensive. If you find yourself anywhere in North Essex looking for a special dining experience or afternoon tea, this should definitely be at the top of your list. Our whole evening was faultless.

The Barn Brasserie caters for weddings and also has high-tech event spaces for business meetings. The main dining area is perfect and has a beautiful ceremony balcony—it’s a truly romantic venue. We were thoroughly spoilt; the waiting staff looked after us like royalty, but we noticed that all guests were treated as such. This was 100% our favourite dining experience so far this year.

Final Thoughts

Two nights in the cabin was the perfect way to recharge our batteries. Surrounded by peace, quiet, and nature, it was the tonic we really needed. Thank you, Browning Bros, for the invitation—we enjoyed every minute.