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Top reasons to visit Essex

• Family-Friendly Attractions: Essex boasts a variety of engaging activities suitable for families, ensuring a memorable holiday experience for all ages.
• Outdoor Adventures: The county offers enchanting forests and urban parks, perfect for those who enjoy exploring nature and outdoor pursuits.
• Vibrant Shopping Areas: Visitors can indulge in retail therapy at lively town centres filled with shops and local markets.
• Cultural Experiences: Discover historic houses and local customs that reflect the rich heritage of Essex.
• Diverse Accommodations: Enjoy a range of lodging options, from charming B&Bs to luxurious hotels, catering to different preferences and budgets.

Find great hotels in Essex

Explore the diverse hotel accommodations in Essex, where you can choose from charming bed and breakfasts to luxurious hotels. Whether you're seeking a pet-friendly stay, a welcoming environment for LGBTQIA travellers, or business facilities, Essex has something for everyone. Discover the best hotels and read reviews to find the perfect place for your visit to this picturesque region of England.

• Hampton by Hilton London Stansted Airport: Offering a warm and welcoming atmosphere, the Hampton by Hilton London Stansted Airport is a 3-star hotel ideal for both business and leisure travellers. This property is particularly appealing to the LGBTQIA community, providing a friendly environment that embraces diversity. Guests can enjoy modern amenities, including a complimentary hot breakfast, a fitness centre, and free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel. The convenient location near Stansted Airport makes it a great choice for those needing easy access to flights while ensuring a comfortable stay.
• Radisson Blu Hotel London Stansted Airport: A 4-star gem, the Radisson Blu Hotel London Stansted Airport prides itself on its eco-certified status, making it perfect for environmentally conscious travellers. The hotel combines luxury with sustainability, featuring stylish rooms equipped with modern conveniences and a variety of dining options. Guests can indulge in the on-site amenities, including a fitness centre and spa, ensuring relaxation during their stay. With its proximity to the airport, this hotel is an excellent choice for business travellers seeking comfort without compromising on their eco-friendly values.
• The Harlow Hotel By AccorHotels: The Harlow Hotel By AccorHotels is a charming 3-star accommodation that welcomes both pets and the LGBTQIA community, making it a unique option for inclusive travel. This eco-certified hotel offers a range of amenities, including pet-friendly rooms and a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for those travelling with furry companions. Guests can expect comfortable lodging with essential features, alongside the convenience of nearby attractions. The hotel’s commitment to sustainability and inclusivity ensures a pleasant stay for all visitors.

Where to stay in Essex

Essex, a charming county in the United Kingdom, offers a delightful blend of family-friendly attractions and vibrant city experiences. Visitors can explore the lively town centres, enjoy relaxing family getaways, and discover the welcoming atmosphere of friendly locals. With excellent accommodations and easy access to the Essex campus, there’s something for everyone, whether you're seeking outdoor adventures or a budget-friendly escape.

• Colchester: Nestled in the heart of Essex, Colchester is England's oldest recorded town and boasts a wealth of history and culture. The city provides a delightful blend of family-friendly activities and outdoor spaces, making it an ideal destination year-round, particularly peaking in April, July, and September. Visitors are drawn to its modern education facilities, shopping centres, and historic landmarks such as the stunning Colchester Castle and picturesque parks. With a vibrant city atmosphere, Colchester offers something for everyone, from educational experiences to leisurely strolls in its scenic surroundings.
• Southend-on-Sea: Located on the picturesque coast, Southend-on-Sea is renowned for its lively seafront and family attractions. The visitor numbers rise in the warmer months, especially in April and from July to August, as families flock to enjoy the beach and cultural experiences. The city is celebrated for its iconic amusement parks, theatres, and an array of shopping centres that cater to all tastes. Visitors can explore the long sandy beaches, family-friendly seaside activities, and historic sites, making Southend-on-Sea a captivating destination for those seeking both relaxation and entertainment.
• Clacton-on-Sea: A charming seaside town, Clacton-on-Sea offers a delightful mix of beach experiences and cultural attractions. The town sees a seasonal influx of visitors, particularly from June to August, drawn by its stunning beaches, including family-friendly and nudist options. Clacton is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of hiking trails and adventure zones, alongside attractions like theatres and amusements. The vibrant promenade and pier add to the coastal charm, making Clacton-on-Sea a perfect spot for those looking to enjoy the sun, sea, and a taste of British seaside culture.

Things to do in Essex

Essex is perfect for families and those seeking outdoor adventures, offering a delightful mix of city-themed experiences. Visitors can explore vibrant shopping areas and centres, enjoy outdoor seating, and discover educational opportunities. For thrill-seekers, fabulous rides and visits to local attractions provide endless entertainment, making Essex an ideal destination for a memorable holiday.

Shopping

Visit Braintree Village, an excellent shopping mall in Essex offering a range of shops and entertainment for the whole family. For unique finds, head to Battlesbridge Antiques and Craft Centre, or explore the charming Forest Drive Shops, perfect for a delightful shopping experience.

Recreation

Lee Valley Park offers a tranquil retreat with its picturesque landscapes, ideal for leisurely walks and relaxation. For a sports-infused day, Forrester Park Golf Club provides an invigorating golfing experience amidst lush greenery. Meanwhile, Warren Golf Club exudes luxury, perfect for those seeking an exclusive and upscale environment.

Adventure

At Gilwell Park, immerse yourself in nature with camping, hiking, and outdoor games, perfect for family bonding. Brentwood Karting offers exhilarating go-kart races, ideal for adrenaline seekers. Meanwhile, High Sports presents thrilling climbing challenges for all skill levels, providing an unforgettable adventure experience.

Nightlife

In Essex, Hollywood Bowl Basildon offers a vibrant arcadeAdventureZone perfect for family fun, while the Mercury Theatre provides a cultural escape with its romantic performances. For a relaxed evening, the Old Sun Inn is a charming drinking pub that exudes entertainment vibes, ideal for unwinding with friends.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Essex

To save money on your visit to Essex, consider travelling between December and February when prices are lower, and aim for Sunday stays to avoid the Saturday premium. Use Expedia’s search tool to find eco-friendly hotels and sort options from lowest to highest price for the best deals. Combine your hotel, flights, and activities into a package to maximise savings. Look out for exclusive discounts and flexible booking options to further enhance your travel budget. Additionally, explore free local attractions to enjoy the area without breaking the bank.

• 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 August, 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: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of hotel you prefer. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel reservations in Essex with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Essex

Essex offers a delightful mix of family-friendly activities and outdoor adventures, making it a perfect destination for a varied holiday. Visitors can explore urban parks, historic houses, and enchanting forests, catering to those seeking cultural experiences and natural beauty. Whether you're interested in history or simply enjoying the great outdoors, Essex has something for everyone to enjoy.

• Epping Forest: Explore the vast expanse of Epping Forest, a beautiful ancient woodland offering an array of outdoor adventures, from tranquil walks to exhilarating mountain biking. The forest's rich biodiversity and scenic trails make it a perfect escape into nature.
• Bridge End Gardens: Enjoy a delightful day at Bridge End Gardens, an urban park that combines stunning floral displays with family-friendly spaces. Its charming pathways and picnic areas create a serene atmosphere, ideal for relaxation and leisure activities.
• Bond Street: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Bond Street, a bustling shopping destination filled with chic boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. This lively street is perfect for enjoying a day out, whether you’re shopping or dining.

The nearest major airports for your trip to Essex

When planning your visit to Essex, you have three major airports to consider. London Heathrow (LHR) is situated 70.8km away, with excellent hotels nearby such as the 5-star Sofitel London Heathrow, 3.2km from the airport, and the 5-star Great Fosters, 9.7km away. London Gatwick (LGW), located 77.2km from Essex, offers options like the 5-star Alexander House and Utopia Spa, 8.0km away, and the charming Stay at-FL bed and breakfast, also 8.0km distant. Finally, London Stansted (STN) is just 22.5km from Essex, featuring the 4-star Radisson Blu Hotel, a mere 0.3.2km from the terminal.