About Us

Your hosts
Paul & Sam

Embracing their passion for angling and farming, Paul and Sam returned to Essex in 2000 and have lovingly managed the farm and fishery since 2006.

The farm has evolved over the years, with Paul and Sam diligently restoring old farm buildings. Among these developments, visitors can now enjoy the mouthwatering delights from the Black Pig Cafe and Lambton and Jackson Smoked Salmon. Guests can also enjoy the numerous attractions onsite.

Chigboro’ Fisheries which was opened in 1981 still provides a haven for fishing enthusiasts in a tranquil setting for both coarse and trout fishing. They also produce cereals and vegetables on the arable farm.

“ Our ultimate goal is allow guests access to this beautiful area and to promote the stunning and historic town of Maldon and the wider Blackwater River Estuary and Essex countryside whilst maintaining its beauty and preserving the environment for the abundant wildlife and for future generations.

“We really look forward to welcoming you to Chigborough and hope you enjoy your visit”

Paul, Sam, Pippa and Henry Tallowin

About Chigborough Farm

Nestled on the Northern edge of the Blackwater Estuary in Essex, Chigborough Farm spans approximately 130 acres of beautiful countryside. Over 50 acres of this land are dedicated to water, serving as a pristine Trout and Coarse fishery.

At Chigborough Farm, sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. As part of our commitment to the environment, we proudly participate in several essential environmental schemes, including the Higher Level Stewardship (HLS), Entry Level Stewardship (ELS), and the LEAF Marque certification.

As a result of our dedication to environmental conservation, our farm has become a sanctuary for abundant wildlife. Many rare migrant birds have found refuge in our diverse ecosystem, making Chigborough Farm and the neighboring Wildlife Trust land a birdwatcher's paradise.

What do our guests say?

We have received some lovely comments from our customers and are very grateful that people take the time to give us a review after their stay. Nothing gives a better idea of what you can expect from your stay, than what other people have experienced - so here they are.

We also would like to mention that if there are ever any problems during your stay, we welcome you to come and let us know - we are on site and more than happy to try to sort things out for you, so that you are comfortable and have a happy stay.

We had such a lovely time.

Loved we just picked up a wheelbarrow, keys and instructions. The pontoon was fun. As was the boat few near misses with balance issues. But such a laugh.

Loved the coziness and little bottle of wine n cheese, teas coffee and hot chocolate. I was worried it would be cold so packed extra bedding and thermals. But didn't need any of it. Was warm and very clean the view was stunning.

I sleep badly so I sat by windows and watched over the lake. I see my first owl! Was just so peaceful. Wish we could of stayed longer but work commitments meant only 2 nights for us. We will return. Hoping to return in the spring.

-Stayed in the Grebe’s Nest

An absolutely wonderful place to stay, tranquil and a way to detox from everyday life.

“The collection of keys, instructions & wheelbarrow is easy & seamless. The raft itself is fantastic with everything you need to enjoy a stay away from the 'outside world'. I highly recommend anyone to snap up the opportunity to stay here.

The experience begins in rafting over to the cabin & is followed by the absolute one off adventure you will encounter. There are gas hobs & a gas bbq to cook on, the fridge can accommodate a sensible amount weekends foods. The shower & toilet are outdoors but screened for modesty! Certainly a new experience in late Autumn for sure (I'd recommend taking a robe, its a bit fresh at night).

The views are an absolute joy whatever the weather & the minimal drifting adds to experience. You are sometimes joined on the decking by ducks & swans & can view the wildlife coming and going throughout the day. The hot tub is situated on the main bank is not fully private with minimal passing people, as a tip it takes about 3/4 hours to heat up (wood burning), another good reason to take a robe. I suggest if given the option you take the opportunity up of staying here.”

-Stayed on The Raft

The most amazing weekend away to celebrate my birthday.

“The location is wonderful, the camp stunning and the surrounding farm area is awesome. Everything is so well thought out and everything is easily detailed to make everything super smooth and easy. The accommodation was comfortable and clean and well kept and it was just perfect.”

-Stayed in Birdsong

Lovely weekend camping in a tranquil setting

“We greatly enjoyed our stay at Chigborough Farm, camping in Willow Camp which was tranquil and open. The farm has a great cafe, and Fish stall which we visited - excellent sea-food platters and all sorts of amazing fish. The facilities were generally good, although more toilets would have been useful. Overall it was a lovely experience and I would highly recommend.”

-Camping

Chillaxing

“We came to chill after a tough year. And that’s exactly what Chigborough Farm did for us……… totally relaxed after our stay. The owners were friendly and helpful, our pitch was excellent. The facilities spot on, and oh that lake. We sat by it and watched the wildlife, go by. We paddle boarded, and had the lake to ourselves. We would highly recommend Chigborough farm to anyone and everyone as a go to place to chill. Thank you!”

-Camping

Lovely weekend camping in a tranquil setting

“We absolutely loved our trip here! The Bell Tent was beautiful as were the tent pitches next to the maze of maize! The facilities were great with a games room, kitchen, delicious farm cafe, kayaks and boat for rent! What more could you ask for - thank you for having us!”

-Glamping

Sun Shining happy days!

“Great days fishing with my boy at Chigborough Fisheries had his new PB 22lb mirror was over the moon with that , I had a lower 20lb mirror also … sun shining happy days!”

-Fishing