Is The Herdsman dog friendly?

Yes, and unusually so — The Herdsman welcomes up to three dogs, which is rare for a cottage that sleeps just two people. The whole property is on one floor, there's an enclosed garden for letting them out safely, and being on a working farm means they'll have no shortage of interesting smells to keep them busy.

Are dogs allowed at The Herdsman year round?

The listing doesn't specify seasonal restrictions on dogs, and nothing in the property description suggests otherwise. If you're planning a visit at a particular time of year, it's worth checking directly with the owners to confirm availability and any current conditions.

What should I know before visiting The Herdsman with my dog?

The owners prefer to know about large breeds before you arrive rather than on the day, so it's worth mentioning your dogs when you book. They can also sometimes arrange dog sitting if you ask in advance, which is handy if you want a few hours out without them. The garden is enclosed, the cottage is single-storey, and the farm setting tends to wear dogs out quickly — the description notes that by eight in the evening, all three are typically asleep.

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CottageEnclosed garden

The Herdsman

Messing, Essex

A spacious barn conversion for two at Messing near Colchester, with vaulted ceilings, an enclosed garden area and patio, walks from the doorstep and three dogs welcome.

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Three dogs are welcome at The Herdsman, a spacious barn conversion at Messing that sleeps two, a dog friendly retreat for a couple travelling with a pack. Walks through the countryside start from the doorstep, and the owners simply ask to be told in advance about any large breeds.

Just inside the door, a porch is there for dropping off shoes and wiping muddy paws. Beyond it, lounge, kitchen and diner share one open plan space that shows off the barn's character in exposed brick walls, vaulted ceilings and quirky windows. Two lounge areas with comfortable seating share a wood burner effect gas fire as their focal point, and three dogs will have claimed their places in front of it by the first evening.

The king size bedroom has a walk in wardrobe and an en suite shower room tiled from floor to ceiling, with a separate WC as well. Outside there is an enclosed garden area and a patio, with garden furniture and a charcoal barbecue for supper outdoors while the dogs potter about. Guests are welcome to explore the rest of the farm, which undulates over 20 acres with fantastic views, and dog sitting may be available by prior arrangement with the owner. Come Christmas, the barn is decorated for the season.

Footpaths and cycle tracks through local woods are close by, and an evening walk with the dogs can finish at the pub, which is within walking distance. Mersea Island is a short drive, with locally caught seafood, sailing and beaches, and boats can be chartered from Maldon. Colchester, widely regarded as Britain's oldest town, has cobbled streets and independent shops, and Flatford, Bourne Mill and Colchester Zoo are all in reach.

We research every description carefully and believe it to be accurate, but details can change. Please confirm anything important, especially dog rules, with the booking agent or property owner before you book.

Book your stay

from £488 for 7 nights

The Herdsman takes 3 dogs and is booked through holidaycottages.co.uk.

Book with holidaycottages.co.uk

Prices are a guide only, checked 27 August 2026, and change with dates and availability. We may earn a commission if you book through this link, at no extra cost to you.

At a Glance

Dogs Welcome: 3 dogs
Enclosed Garden: Yes; For those that wish to enjoy a spot of al fresco dining the garden offers a fine place to enjoy both the charcoal BBQ and garden furniture offering an enclosed garden area and a patio area
Sleeps: 2 guests
Rooms: 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom
Price: from £488 / 7 nights
Grading: 4 star
Arrival: in from 16:00, out by 10:00
Facilities: Parking, Wifi

The Herdsman from £488 for 7 nights

Book with holidaycottages.co.uk

Frequently Asked Questions

Is The Herdsman dog friendly?
Yes, and unusually so — The Herdsman welcomes up to three dogs, which is rare for a cottage that sleeps just two people. The whole property is on one floor, there's an enclosed garden for letting them out safely, and being on a working farm means they'll have no shortage of interesting smells to keep them busy.
Are dogs allowed at The Herdsman year round?
The listing doesn't specify seasonal restrictions on dogs, and nothing in the property description suggests otherwise. If you're planning a visit at a particular time of year, it's worth checking directly with the owners to confirm availability and any current conditions.
What should I know before visiting The Herdsman with my dog?
The owners prefer to know about large breeds before you arrive rather than on the day, so it's worth mentioning your dogs when you book. They can also sometimes arrange dog sitting if you ask in advance, which is handy if you want a few hours out without them. The garden is enclosed, the cottage is single-storey, and the farm setting tends to wear dogs out quickly — the description notes that by eight in the evening, all three are typically asleep.