Title: Lorna, Houseboat , West Mersea Reviews, Deals & Photos 2026 - Expedia.co.uk [See all properties](http://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?regionId=4609&destination=Colchester%2C+England%2C+United+Kingdom&selected=107258766&adults=2&children=&sort=RECOMMENDED&useRewards=false&semdtl=&userIntent=&vip=false) Entire apartment # Lorna, Houseboat , West Mersea ## Photo gallery for Lorna, Houseboat , West Mersea ![On the beach - Lorna, Houseboat , West Mersea (West Mersea)](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/108000000/107260000/107258800/107258766/a6a417b7.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=598&ra=fit) ![Outdoor dining - Lorna, Houseboat , West Mersea (West Mersea)](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/108000000/107260000/107258800/107258766/311df8b1.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=297&ra=fit) ![Interior - Lorna, Houseboat , West Mersea (West Mersea)](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/108000000/107260000/107258800/107258766/399fff61.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=297&ra=fit) ![Interior - Lorna, Houseboat , West Mersea (West Mersea)](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/108000000/107260000/107258800/107258766/4cb1bb10.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=297&ra=fit) ![Fridge, microwave, stovetop, toaster - Lorna, Houseboat , West Mersea (West Mersea)](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/108000000/107260000/107258800/107258766/80ccf756.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=297&ra=fit) - Overview - Location - Amenities - Policies Moored on Mersea Island's tranquil River Blackwater, Lorna offers a serene escape from the world. This beautifully appointed five-bedroom houseboat features an open-plan living space with French doors opening to a rear viewing platform and stunning views of the unspoilt landscape beyond. A decked seating area, board games and reading material await you in this traditional ship cabin-inspired retreat. ## Reviews 6.0 ### Entire apartment 5 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 61076 sq ft ## Popular amenities - Kitchen - Outdoor space ## Add dates for prices Check-in Check-out Travellers ## About this property ### Lorna, Houseboat , West Mersea A beautifully appointed five-bedroom holiday houseboat, fronting the River Blackwater amidst the tranquil surroundings of Mersea Island. Accessed via the Strood (please check tide times) on arrival and departure as the road is submerged in water (subject to tide times). Accessed via a decked walkway with allocated parking via parking bay with a decked seating area and all bedrooms on the lower ground floor. A quirky, traditionally styled houseboat with aspect across the River. Situated on Coast Road amidst a cluster of quirky and original houseboats, Lorna is approached via a shingled parking area with a parking bay (set behind a chain link fence). A decked walkway leads to the houseboat with steps rising to a decked area a seating area with seating for three guests and a beautiful aspect across the individual properties on Coast Road and the River Blackwater distant. The houseboat enjoys an open-plan living space complete with French doors opening to the rear viewing platform and two settees with two further armchairs providing an aspect across the unspoilt landscape beyond. A kitchen area is complete with an integrated microwave, two-ring hob and fridge with breakfast bar with seating area and an adjacent shower room. The principal living space is enhanced by spectacular views and board games are available for use. An original, winding staircase descends to the lower deck whereby five bedrooms are arranged via a further sitting room, beautifully restored in the mould of a traditional ship cabin, further reading material and an ideal evening/winter area. One of our most distinctive holiday lets, perfectly formed to embrace the true essence of Mersea Island with its strong sailing links, historic oyster industry, and range of restaurants, pubs, facilities and cafes. An opportunity to experience the relaxed, calming nature of life on the river. Please note that the boardwalk to reach the boat is not suitable for those unstable on their feet and the stairs are steep. This property is an idyllic technology-free retreat and does not have wifi or a smart TV. ## Property amenities ### Beach - On the beach ### Kitchen - Cookware, dishware, and utensils - Hob - Microwave - Refrigerator - Spices - Toaster ### Dining - Dining table ### Bedrooms - 5 bedrooms - Bedsheets provided ### Bathroom - 1 bathroom - Free toiletries ### Living spaces - Dining table ### Entertainment - DVD player - Games - TV ### Outdoor areas - Patio ### Comfort - Heating ### Pets - No pets allowed ### Suitability/Accessibility - Smoke-free property ### Location highlights - On the waterfront ### Safety features - Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector) - Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property) ### General - Unit size: 1,076 square feet ## Similar properties ![Breakfast and dinner served, British cuisine](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/4000000/3610000/3605500/3605411/0eb3f182.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### Holiday Inn Express Colchester by IHG Colchester - 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18 ### Check-out Check-out before 10:00 AM ### Special check-in instructions You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools ### Pets Pets not allowed ### Children and extra beds Children are welcome ### Events No events allowed ### Smoking Smoking is not permitted ## Important information ### You need to know This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business or profession. Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation If you cancel your booking, you'll be subject to the host's cancellation policy. In accordance with UK consumer law, property booking services are not subject to the right of withdrawal. ### Property is also known as 600025031 ## About the area Located in Colchester, this apartment is on the beach. Mersea Island Vineyard and Gosfield Lake Golf Club are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Cudmore Grove Country Park and Abberton Reservoir. Looking to enjoy an event or a game while in town? See what's happening at Colchester Community Stadium or Brightlingsea Open Air Swimming Pool. [Visit our Colchester travel guide](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Colchester.dx4609) [View more Apartments in Colchester](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Colchester-Apartments.d4609-aaApartments.Travel-Guide-Accommodation) ![Map](https://maps.googleapis.com/maps/api/staticmap?&size=660x330&map_id=3b266eb50d2997c6&zoom=13&markers=icon:https%3A%2F%2Fa.travel-assets.com%2Ftravel-assets-manager%2Feg-maps%2Fproperty.png%7C51.77872%2C0.89894&channel=expedia-HotelInformation&maptype=roadmap&scale=1&key=AIzaSyCYjQus5kCufOpSj932jFoR_AJiL9yiwOw&signature=mdHPP5HROYIBNrrGwmW6Kybca6A=) West Mersea, England ### What's nearby - ![Colchester Zoo featuring zoo animals and land animals](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6081373/642303a6-7942-40d0-993a-51f21990e2ae.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=115.61&rh=65.03&ra=fit&q=high) Colchester Zoo 16 min drive \- 10.5 miles - ![Colchester Castle Park showing a park and heritage architecture](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6081369/7503fe40-29b4-4424-9853-20ceb802d43a.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=115.61&rh=65.03&ra=fit&q=high) Colchester Castle Park 21 min drive \- 10.9 miles - ![Willy Lott's Cottage outside in flatford mill in constable country old and famous location building from a painting on a summer afternoon with no people very beautiful](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6094515/bbf84a27-b3d2-4273-a137-97f340dadb3e.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=115.61&rh=65.03&ra=fit&q=high) Flatford Mill 38 min drive \- 25.8 miles - Mersea Island Museum 13 min walk \- 0.7 miles - University of Essex 20 min drive \- 11.7 miles ### Getting around - Colchester Kelvedon Station 23 min drive - London (SEN-Southend) 79 min drive ### Restaurants - Donkey & Buskins 13 min drive - The Plough 7 min drive - The Railway Tavern 29 min drive - The Hare and Hounds 14 min drive - The Layer Fox 13 min drive ## Frequently asked questions ### Is Lorna, Houseboat , West Mersea pet-friendly? ### What time is check-in at Lorna, Houseboat , West Mersea? ### What time is check-out at Lorna, Houseboat , West Mersea? ### Where is Lorna, Houseboat , West Mersea located? ## Have a question? Beta Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews. Ask a question ## Lorna, Houseboat , West Mersea Reviews ## Reviews All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travellers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative. [More information](https://www.expedia.co.uk/lp/b/content-guidelines) 10 - Excellent 0 8 - Good 0 6 - Okay 1 4 - Poor 0 2 - Terrible 0 ### 4.0 Cleanliness ### 4.0 Amenities ### 4.0 Property conditions & facilities ## Reviews Verified ### 6/10 Okay #### Katie 18 Aug 2025 Liked: Communication Disliked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities When I first walked in, I loved it as it was a boat and I’ve never stayed on a house boat before. Communication when I booked was excellent and we checked in early. Upstairs was grey but downstairs (beds) was dark and smelt damp. There was no main TV control, used the TV buttons but couldn’t adjust the sound. No full length mirror nor a mirror in the bathroom so I did my make up looking at the toaster. The inside windows and tables were dirty, blind was broken but the main thing was the “security”… Anyone can walk up to the boat and stare through the windows at the front through the (eye level) windows as they aren’t covered. My partner had to leave early and it really worried me as I couldn’t even cover them with anything as there wasn’t even hooks etc. the main bedroom downstairs smelt, the light fell on me so we took the duvets up the very narrow stairs and slept on the sofas. Lovely area, unique place to stay. ##### Katie Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025 ### Expedia's Latest Trends ### Hotels > - [The Skipton Hotel - Formerly Hotel Rendezvous](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Skipton-Hotels-Hotel-Rendezvous.h41466.Hotel-Information) > - [OYO Shanklin Beach Hotel](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Shanklin-Hotels-OYO-Shanklin-Beach-Hotel.h7539838.Hotel-Information) > - [Brock Cottage private Hot Tub DOG/Cat FRIENDLY\* with on site fishing](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Pickering-Hotels-Spacious-Stone-Cottage-DOG-FRIENDLY.h36805890.Hotel-Information) > - [Crafted at Powdermills](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Battle-Hotels-Powdermills-Country-House-Hotel.h195688.Hotel-Information) > - [Bear Lodge - At Port Lympne Reserve](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Hythe-Hotels-Bear-Lodge-Aspinall-Foundation.h40101484.Hotel-Information) > - [DoubleTree by Hilton London Elstree](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Borehamwood-Hotels-DoubleTree-By-Hilton-London-Elstree.h18549.Hotel-Information) > - [Hampton by Hilton Canterbury](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Canterbury-Hotels-Hampton-Inn-Canterbury.h66541221.Hotel-Information) > - [Pinewood Camping Pods - At Port Lympne Reserve](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Hythe-Hotels-Pinewood-Apinall-Foundation.h40101599.Hotel-Information) > - [Exeter Rougemont hotel by Sunday](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Exeter-Hotels-Exeter-Rougemont-Hotel-By-Sunday.h7784.Hotel-Information) > - [Mermaid, Ipswich by Marston's Inns](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Ipswich-Hotels-Mermaid.h31883430.Hotel-Information) > - [Wild Rose Caravan Park](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Appleby-In-Westmorland-Hotels-Wild-Rose-Caravan-Park.h24459296.Hotel-Information) > - [Sandman Signature Sheffield Quays Hotel](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Sheffield-Hotels-The-Quays-Hotel-Sheffield.h46197620.Hotel-Information) > - [Crow Wood Hotel & Spa Resort](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Burnley-Hotels-Crowwood-Hotel-Spa-Resort.h38222710.Hotel-Information) > - [Donnington Manor Hotel](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Sevenoaks-Hotels-Donnington-Manor-Hotel.h865829.Hotel-Information) > - [Lock Keeper, Worksop by Marston's Inns](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Worksop-Hotels-Lock-Keeper.h27479298.Hotel-Information) > - [White Hart, Exeter by Marston's Inns](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Exeter-Hotels-White-Hart.h11899395.Hotel-Information) > - [Skegness The Royal Hotel](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Skegness-Hotels-The-Royal-Hotel-Skegness.h23931999.Hotel-Information) > - [The Swan Hotel](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Wells-Hotels-The-Swan-Hotel.h26791.Hotel-Information) > - [voco Leicester by IHG](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Leicester-Hotels-Voco-Leicester.h76596043.Hotel-Information) > - [The Stables Whitby](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Whitby-Hotels-The-Stables-Whitby.h23322490.Hotel-Information) > - [Soar Mill Cove Hotel](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Salcombe-Hotels-Soar-Mill-Cove-Hotel.h2042032.Hotel-Information) > - [The Aviator, formerly Smugglers Cove, Clacton On Sea by Marston's Inns](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Clacton-On-Sea-Hotels-Smugglers-Cove-By-Marstons-Inns.h35853904.Hotel-Information) > - [Canterbury Bell, Margate by Marston's Inns](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Broadstairs-Hotels-Canterbury-Bell.h33103125.Hotel-Information) > - [Samsara Retreat and Yoga - Adults Only](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Maidstone-Hotels-Samsara-Retreat-And-Yoga.h41349775.Hotel-Information) > - [Seven Hotel](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Southend-On-Sea-Hotels-Seven-Hotel.h19282555.Hotel-Information) > - [Yeoldon House](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Bideford-Hotels-Yeoldon-House.h2764122.Hotel-Information) > - [Wild Thyme & Honey](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Cirencester-Hotels-Wild-Thyme-Honey.h9241983.Hotel-Information) > - [Cromer Country Club](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Cromer-Hotels-Cromer-Country-Club.h1927781.Hotel-Information) > - [Chewton Glen Hotel & Spa](https://www.expedia.co.uk/New-Milton-Hotels-Chewton-Glen-Hotel-Spa.h528432.Hotel-Information) ---