Over the years, Osea Island in the middle of the River Blackwater in Essex has been used for military purposes, a location for filming and a rehabilitation centre. Today, however, you can have a peaceful break on this unique spot, which is cut off from the mainland by the tide for eight hours out of every twelve — except by means of a water taxi or helicopter, of course. Given the nature of the location, this home has its own eclecticisms, notably the ivy-strewn four-poster beds and orange chequerboard patterns on the living room walls. However, much of it is rustic in appearance, like the rolltop bathtub and the log-burning fireplace in the living room. Outside, there's a patio and garden where you can sit out and enjoy the peaceful isolation, while there are also communal facilities to share with neighbours on the island — of which, there really aren't many. These include a football pitch, tennis court, mini-golf and heated outdoor swimming pool. There's also a fleet of bikes to borrow that let you explore the island's 380 acres of sand dunes, rolling fields and marshland.

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