Exploring Osea Island: A Unique Getaway Near London
Introduction
Osea Island is a star-studded private island, replete with charming cottages, sandy shores, and, when the time is right, warehouse dance parties. Although it may sound like a Caribbean getaway or a secret enclave in the Indian Ocean, Osea Island is located just a 20-minute helicopter ride from London.
Location and Accessibility
The 380-acre island off the coast of Essex is gaining notoriety not just for its famous guests but also for its surprising location. Osea Island is accessible via an ancient causeway built by the Romans. However, the causeway is only open twice a day when the tide goes out. If you drive from London, the journey takes less than two hours.
Activities on Osea Island
Advertised activities on the island are charmingly wholesome; visitors can pick blackberries, explore sand dunes, ride bikes, and play croquet. These leisure activities make Osea a great destination for nature lovers looking to unwind and appreciate the serene environment.
A Brief History
In the early 20th century, Frederick Nicholas Charrington purchased the island to create a rehabilitation program for those overcoming addictions to drugs or alcohol. Notably, Osea’s mission remained the same for over a century, even welcoming major celebrity clients like Amy Winehouse. Unfortunately, it was shut down in 2010 for operating without proper registration.
The island also served as a British Navy base during World War I and was a site of research conducted by Cambridge University on its unique ecology, bird life, and marine inhabitants.
Entertainment Hub
In its new life, Osea Island has transformed into a hub for the entertainment industry. The island surged in popularity in 2020 as the eerie backdrop for HBO’s The Third Day. Furthermore, in 2012, Daniel Radcliffe filmed “Woman in Black” here. The island now hosts a studio where notable artists such as Rihanna, Charli XCX, and Labrinth (the composer for Euphoria) have recorded music.
Accommodation Options
Today, Osea Island is recognized as an ideal destination for both lavish events and quiet nature retreats. Visitors aiming for solitude may find that the off-season brings a unique sense of tranquility. Cottage rentals on Osea start at approximately $392 (£300) per night, or for special occasions, you may enquire about renting the entire island here.
