Hamble Riverside Cottage in Old Bursledon

Myrtle Cottage occupies a direct position on the banks of the River Hamble at the end of Lands End Road in Old Bursledon. This Grade II listed 18th-century property carries wisteria across much of its exterior and opens onto its own riverside lawn.

Beamed ceilings and parquet flooring run through the interior, paired with modern fittings that maintain the original character. Three bedrooms accommodate up to six people, one of them a compact space with a low doorway and angled beams that younger visitors treat as a hideaway. Two bathrooms serve the layout, one positioned on the ground floor. The kitchen includes a dishwasher, dual ovens, induction hob and coffee machine alongside everyday essentials. Separate sitting and dining rooms each hold an open fire, giving flexible space for indoor time.

The garden forms the central feature. Stone paths curve between borders of lavender, old English roses and a herb patch stocked with rosemary, thyme and basil.

A private 12-metre pontoon stretches from the lawn into the river, offering immediate access for swimming, fishing or launching a kayak. Adjacent stand a hot tub, firepit and fully equipped outdoor kitchen under a glass-covered grapevine canopy that holds a barbecue, hob, fridges and dining table.

The cottage sits within the waterside landscape of Old Bursledon. River views dominate from both garden and pontoon, while the village itself supplies everyday convenience without requiring extended travel.

• Accessibility: footpaths lead from Lands End Road down to the cottage with some steps and slopes; the ground-floor bathroom aids partial mobility but the historic structure and riverside setting restrict full wheelchair suitability
• Layout: arranged over two levels with three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a kitchen and two reception rooms featuring open fires
• Parking: on-street spaces available along Lands End Road or in the immediate vicinity, followed by a short walk via the pathways
• Local amenities: River Hamble Country Park lies close by with trails, picnic areas and riverside facilities; several pubs and small shops operate within the village, alongside marina and coastal paths

River activity passes the pontoon throughout the day, from small boats to occasional wildlife. The setting supports quiet observation or gentle waterside pursuits without formal organisation. Nearby open spaces connect to wider Hampshire routes, placing the cottage as a practical base for those familiar with the area or arriving for the first time.

The blend of period detail and practical outdoor space keeps the experience straightforward and self-contained. Guests handle their own arrangements, with the river and garden providing the main focus.