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Top reasons to visit Essex

• Stunning Outdoor Activities: Essex boasts a variety of outdoor adventures, including urban parks, enchanting forests, and scenic strolls perfect for nature enthusiasts.
• Rich Historical Experiences: Visitors can explore charming towns steeped in history and a multitude of fascinating museums.
• Vibrant Shopping Scene: Enjoy retail therapy at bustling shopping centres and lively malls, catering to all tastes.
• Diverse Accommodation Options: From charming B&Bs to modern hotels, Essex offers a range of stays for every traveller's needs.
• Welcoming Atmosphere: Experience the friendliness of locals and the serene surroundings, making Essex a delightful getaway.

Find great hotels in Essex

Discover a variety of accommodation options in Essex, ranging from charming bed and breakfasts to modern hotels. Whether you're seeking a pet-friendly retreat, accessible rooms, or LGBTQIA welcoming services, Essex has something for every traveller. Consider unique stays like the abbey rooms or explore the convenient accommodation available at Colchester Campus. With a focus on business-themed amenities, you’ll find the perfect base for your visit to this delightful region.

• Hampton by Hilton London Stansted Airport: Nestled in Essex, the Hampton by Hilton London Stansted Airport is a delightful 3-star hotel that caters to business travellers and the LGBTQIA community. Emphasising comfort and convenience, this hotel features well-appointed rooms with modern amenities. Guests can take advantage of multiple meeting rooms and an accessible business centre, making it an excellent choice for corporate stays. With a warm and inclusive atmosphere, it promises a welcoming environment for all guests, ensuring a pleasant and productive stay.
• Radisson Blu Hotel London Stansted Airport: A premium 4-star accommodation, the Radisson Blu Hotel London Stansted Airport offers an eco-friendly experience for conscientious travellers. This property is recognised for its eco-certification and is tailored for business needs, featuring a comprehensive conference centre, meeting rooms, and a dedicated business centre. Its stylish design and sustainable practices make it a standout choice for those seeking luxury while caring for the environment. Guests can enjoy a blend of modern elegance and efficient service, ensuring a memorable stay.
• The Harlow Hotel By AccorHotels: The Harlow Hotel By AccorHotels, also a 3-star establishment, presents a unique blend of business amenities and pet-friendly policies, making it a perfect choice for families and LGBTQIA travellers alike. With accessible meeting rooms and a well-equipped business centre, it caters to corporate needs while also welcoming furry companions. Guests appreciate the hotel’s relaxed atmosphere and commitment to inclusivity. Its convenient location in Essex ensures easy access to local attractions, making it an ideal base for your vacation.

Where to stay in Essex

Essex offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and family-friendly activities, perfect for a memorable getaway. Discover charming towns rich in history, explore an abundance of museums, and relax in the scenic Admirals Park. With accessible business centres and budget-friendly ensuite options, Essex caters to all types of travellers. Enjoy the welcoming atmosphere created by friendly locals and indulge in the serene surroundings that make this county a fantastic destination for everyone.

• Bishop's Stortford: Nestled in the charming landscape of Essex, Bishop's Stortford offers a delightful blend of urban and rural experiences. Its convenient location near the River Stort makes it a picturesque spot for outdoor activities. The city is popular for family outings, with vibrant shopping areas and a local theatre that hosts a variety of performances. Visitors can explore historic landmarks, including quaint streets and a local stadium, all within easy reach, making it a perfect destination for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.
• Colchester: Known as one of the oldest recorded towns in Britain, Colchester is steeped in rich history and cultural experiences. The city's appeal lies in its family-friendly atmosphere, outdoor spaces, and educational venues, including a modern university that adds a youthful vibe. Stroll through its historic places or visit the local beach for a delightful day out. With a variety of theatres and shopping centres, Colchester provides a unique mix of culture and leisure, ensuring that visitors of all ages have something to enjoy.
• Southend-on-Sea: A vibrant coastal city, Southend-on-Sea is renowned for its lively entertainment options and stunning beaches. The city sees a seasonal influx of tourists, particularly during the summer months, making it a bustling hub for family fun. With attractions such as a theme park and shopping malls, there’s no shortage of activities. Visitors can bask in the sun at the family-friendly beach or enjoy theatre performances, creating lasting memories in this lively seaside destination.

Things to do in Essex

Essex offers a fantastic variety of outdoor and family-friendly activities perfect for an adventurous holiday. Visitors can explore recreational areas, indulge in retail therapy at shopping centres, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of shopping malls. With its diverse attractions, Essex guarantees a memorable experience for tourists seeking both relaxation and excitement.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience, visit Braintree Village for a mix of brands and entertainment. Don't miss Battlesbridge Antiques and Craft Centre for unique gifts or the Forest Drive Shops for local finds, perfect for family outings and a taste of city life.

Recreation

At Forrester Park Golf Club, enjoy a round of golf surrounded by scenic landscapes, perfect for unwinding and socialising. Warren Golf Club offers a luxurious setting for a leisurely game, while Lee Valley Park invites you to relax amidst nature, providing a serene atmosphere for wellness activities.

Adventure

Experience the great outdoors at Gilwell Park, a vibrant campground perfect for family adventures. For an adrenaline rush, visit Rayleigh Indoor Karting Stadium, where you can race against friends. If climbing is your passion, High Sports offers thrilling climbing experiences amidst stunning views.

Nightlife

In Essex, the Mercury Theatre offers a blend of culture and romance, perfect for a night out. For adventure, Xtreme Gaming’s arcade promises excitement and fun. Meanwhile, the Old Sun Inn provides a warm pub atmosphere, ideal for drinks and entertainment with a touch of romance.

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 offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and family-friendly attractions, making it an ideal destination for tourists. Visitors can explore urban parks, historic houses, and enchanting forests, catering to those seeking cultural experiences and outdoor fun. Whether you're after a leisurely stroll or an engaging day out with the family, Essex has plenty to offer for every type of traveller.

• Audley End House: This magnificent historic house offers a glimpse into the grandeur of 17th-century architecture and opulent interiors. Set within beautiful gardens, visitors can explore the rich history and cultural significance of the estate, making it a perfect spot for history enthusiasts.
• University of Essex: Known for its innovative and dynamic atmosphere, the University of Essex boasts impressive modern architecture and vibrant student life. With an array of cultural events and exhibitions, it provides a lively city vibe, perfect for those looking to experience contemporary educational excellence.
• Epping Forest: A stunning expanse of ancient woodland, Epping Forest is ideal for outdoor adventures. With numerous walking and cycling trails, it promises an exhilarating experience amidst nature, allowing visitors to reconnect with the great outdoors.

The nearest major airports for your trip to Essex

When visiting Essex, you have convenient access to several major airports. London Heathrow (LHR) is situated 70.8km away, with excellent hotels like the 5-star Sofitel London Heathrow, just 3.2km from the airport, and Great Fosters, also 8.0km away. London Gatwick (LGW) is 77.2km from Essex, featuring options like the 5-star Windfalls Boutique Hotel, 4.8km from the airport, and Alexander House And Utopia Spa, 8.0km away. The nearest airport is London Stansted (STN), located 22.5km from Essex, with the Radisson Blu Hotel just 0.3.2km from the airport, alongside The Linden Stansted, 4.8km away, providing easy access for your stay.