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Top reasons to visit Essex

• Outdoor Adventures: Essex features enchanting forests and nature reserves, perfect for hiking, cycling, and enjoying the great outdoors.
• Charming Countryside: The picturesque Essex countryside offers serene walks and charming landscapes, ideal for relaxation.
• Vibrant Cities: Explore bustling towns like Colchester and Chelmsford, which are rich in shopping and cultural experiences.
• Family-Friendly Activities: Essex is packed with attractions that cater to all ages, ensuring fun for the whole family.
• Convenient Location: With easy access to Central London, visitors can enjoy both urban excitement and tranquil escapes.

Find great hotels in Essex

Discover a delightful range of accommodation options in Essex, from charming bed and breakfasts to top-notch hotels. Whether you're seeking pet-friendly facilities, a welcoming atmosphere for LGBTQIA travellers, or amenities tailored for business trips, Essex has something for everyone. Explore the best hotels and guesthouses that promise a memorable stay in this vibrant region of the United Kingdom.

• Dragonfly Hotel Colchester: This charming 3-star hotel offers a delightful combination of comfort and convenience in the heart of Essex. Guests can indulge in a variety of dining options, including a full breakfast and lunch at the on-site restaurant. The hotel provides entertainment through satellite and LCD televisions, ensuring a relaxing stay. With a nearby zoo, nature enthusiasts can easily explore local wildlife attractions, making it an ideal choice for families and leisure travellers seeking a laid-back experience.
• The Great Hallingbury Manor: Nestled in picturesque surroundings, this 4-star manor hotel boasts a blend of elegance and local charm. Guests can enjoy a range of breakfast options throughout the week, including both full and continental breakfasts. The hotel caters to the active traveller with nearby mountain biking, hiking, and golf activities. Entertainment options feature modern flatscreen and digital televisions, allowing guests to unwind after a day of exploration. Conveniently located near the airport, it is well-suited for both leisure and business visits.
• Wivenhoe House Hotel: A stunning 4-star establishment with a remarkable guest rating of 9.4, Wivenhoe House Hotel combines eco-friendliness with luxurious comfort. This hotel is ideal for environmentally conscious travellers and those with pets, as it welcomes dogs and provides amenities for them. Offering a serene atmosphere for business trips or leisure stays, guests can appreciate the hotel's sustainable practices while enjoying its elegant facilities. Experience exceptional service in a beautiful, eco-certified environment that prioritises both comfort and responsibility.

Where to stay in Essex

Essex offers a delightful blend of charming countryside and vibrant cities, perfect for outdoor adventures and family vacations. Explore the friendly atmosphere and budget-friendly shopping experiences in towns like Colchester and Chelmsford. Don’t miss the enchanting Essex countryside, ideal for relaxing walks. With easy access to Central London, you can enjoy the best of both worlds—serene escapes and urban excitement—making Essex a splendid destination for every traveller.

• Clacton-on-Sea: Nestled along the picturesque Essex coast, Clacton-on-Sea is a vibrant seaside resort that attracts visitors year-round, with peak times during the summer months. Families flock here for its sandy beaches and thrilling outdoor activities. The town boasts an arcade adventure zone, a lively recreational area, and an inviting theatre that hosts various performances. Key landmarks include the family-friendly beach and scenic dunes, offering plenty of opportunities for relaxation and exploration. Whether you fancy a stroll along the promenade or a fun-filled day at the amusements, Clacton-on-Sea promises a delightful coastal experience.
• Brentwood: Situated conveniently in the heart of Essex, Brentwood is a bustling city known for its blend of family-friendly attractions and urban amenities. With a steady influx of visitors, particularly in spring and summer, Brentwood caters to both leisure and business travellers. The city features a variety of shopping centres and malls, making it a retail paradise for those looking to indulge in some retail therapy. Additionally, Brentwood boasts a thriving theatre scene and is home to several historic sites and sports facilities, providing a unique mix of culture and entertainment for all ages.
• Saffron Walden: Rich in history and charm, Saffron Walden is a delightful market town that offers a perfect escape for culture enthusiasts and families alike. With visitor numbers peaking in the spring and summer, this area is renowned for its historic places and houses, as well as a fascinating military museum that tells the story of the region's past. Strolling through the vibrant shopping area, you'll find a variety of independent shops and charming cafés. The town's theatre and entertainment facilities ensure there's always something happening, making Saffron Walden a cultural gem in Essex.

Things to do in Essex

Shopping

In Essex, visit Lakeside Shopping Centre for a wide range of high street brands and dining options. For a more local experience, explore Braintree Village, an outlet destination with discounted designer goods. Don't miss the vibrant Colchester Market for unique crafts and local produce.

Recreation

In Essex, retreat to the tranquil surroundings of the Lifehouse Spa & Hotel, where you can indulge in holistic therapies and rejuvenating treatments. Alternatively, visit the Champneys Health Resort for a blend of fitness activities and relaxing spa services, offering a serene escape from daily life.

Adventure

Explore the stunning landscapes at the Essex Outdoors adventure centres, where you can enjoy activities like climbing, zip-lining, and kayaking. For a unique experience, try the thrilling Go Ape treetop adventure, combining zip-wires and rope courses in the heart of nature.

Nightlife

In Essex, you can explore venues like The Sugar Hut in Brentwood, renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and live DJ sets. The Revolution in Chelmsford offers a lively cocktail scene, while The Fez in Colchester is popular for its eclectic music and themed nights, creating a dynamic nightlife experience.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Essex

To save money during your trip to Essex, consider visiting between December and February when accommodation prices are lower. Sundays are the most affordable days to stay, while Saturdays tend to be pricier. Utilise platforms like Expedia to find budget-friendly options by applying filters for your preferences and sorting by price. Look for eco-certified hotels for sustainable choices, and consider booking packages that combine flights, hotels, and activities for additional savings. Advance bookings can also help secure the best deals. Explore free activities around Essex to maximise your experience without overspending.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Essex are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to July and September, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Essex is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay in Essex is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Make use of Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you prefer. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially reduce costs by combining your hotel reservation in Essex with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Essex

Essex is an excellent destination for outdoor and family holidays, boasting numerous attractions that cater to all interests. Visitors can explore urban parks, nature reserves, and enchanting forests, providing ample opportunities for adventure and cultural experiences. Whether you're seeking a relaxing day with family or an exhilarating outdoor excursion, Essex offers a diverse range of points of interest to make your visit memorable.

• Chelmsford Cathedral: Nestled in the heart of Essex, Chelmsford Cathedral boasts stunning Gothic architecture and a rich history. Visitors can enjoy its serene atmosphere while exploring beautiful stained glass windows and intricate stone carvings, making it a perfect spot for reflection and appreciation of local culture.
• Ingatestone Hall: A magnificent Tudor mansion, Ingatestone Hall offers a glimpse into the past with its impressive architecture and extensive gardens. Guided tours reveal fascinating stories of the Hall's history, providing insight into the lives of the families who once resided there.
• St John the Baptist Church: This charming church is known for its remarkable medieval features and tranquil surroundings. The beautiful interior showcases stunning artwork, while the peaceful churchyard invites visitors to unwind and connect with the local heritage.