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Top reasons to visit Essex

• Outdoor Adventures: Essex boasts a stunning countryside perfect for leisurely strolls, picnics, and nature exploration.
• Family-Friendly Experiences: The region offers a variety of activities suitable for families, including urban parks and recreational areas.
• Charming Towns: Visitors can indulge in delightful shopping and explore quaint towns that embody local character.
• Accessibility to London: A short trip to Central London provides a vibrant city atmosphere, enhancing your holiday experience.
• Diverse Accommodation: Essex features a range of lodging options, from cosy bed and breakfasts to contemporary hotels, catering to all preferences.

Find great hotels in Essex

Discover the charm of Essex with a variety of accommodation options tailored to suit every traveller. Whether you're seeking a cosy bed and breakfast or a contemporary hotel, Essex offers pet-friendly and LGBTQIA welcoming stays. Enjoy the convenience of facilities designed for business travel, ensuring a comfortable experience. With top hotels and guesthouses scattered across the region, your perfect getaway awaits in this picturesque part of England.

• Hampton by Hilton London Stansted Airport: This 3-star hotel boasts a convenient location for both business and leisure travellers, situated near Stansted Airport in Essex. With a commendable guest rating of 9.0 out of 10, the Hampton by Hilton offers modern amenities including complimentary Wi-Fi, a fitness centre, and a 24-hour business centre. Guests can enjoy a hearty breakfast buffet to kick-start their day, and the inviting rooms are equipped with comfortable bedding and a workspace, ensuring a pleasant stay for those on the go.
• Radisson Blu Hotel London Stansted Airport: A step up in luxury, the 4-star Radisson Blu is also located at Stansted Airport, with a guest rating of 8.4 out of 10. This eco-certified hotel is a fitting choice for environmentally conscious travellers. It features stylish rooms, a well-equipped fitness centre, and dining options that focus on sustainability. The hotel’s contemporary design and efficient service create a refined atmosphere, making it ideal for business travellers seeking comfort and convenience before or after a flight.
• The Harlow Hotel By AccorHotels: This 3-star hotel embraces both eco-friendliness and a pet-friendly policy, welcoming guests with pets to enjoy a comfortable stay in Essex. The Harlow Hotel is rated well among visitors and provides various amenities that cater to both business and leisure travellers. With facilities like a restaurant, bar, and meeting rooms, guests can easily balance work and relaxation. The hotel also permits pets, making it a suitable choice for those who wish to travel with their furry companions, with clear guidelines and amenities to ensure a hassle-free experience.

Where to stay in Essex

Discover the charm of Essex, where outdoor adventures meet family-friendly experiences. Explore the picturesque Essex countryside, perfect for leisurely strolls and picnics. Indulge in delightful shopping in quaint towns or enjoy a short trip to Central London for a vibrant city atmosphere. With friendly locals and a relaxing vibe, Essex offers a memorable holiday filled with exploration, adventure, and the warmth of community.

• Colchester: Known as the oldest recorded town in Britain, Colchester is steeped in history and culture. Located in the heart of Essex, this vibrant city offers a blend of family-friendly activities and outdoor pursuits. Visitors can explore the historic Colchester Castle, stroll through beautiful parks, or enjoy the local shopping centres and malls. The city’s peak visitor times in April, July, and September make it lively, with various events and attractions catering to families and city enthusiasts alike. Don’t miss the chance to visit the modern university campuses that add a youthful energy to the area.
• Southend-on-Sea: A quintessential British seaside resort, Southend-on-Sea is renowned for its stunning beaches and family-friendly attractions. This lively city in Essex sees a surge of visitors during April and the summer months, particularly in July and August. Families flock to its famous pier, the longest in the world, and the vibrant amusement parks. With a plethora of shopping centres and theatres, there’s no shortage of entertainment. The breathtaking dunes and beach areas are perfect for leisurely strolls or a day of fun in the sun, making it an ideal spot for an outdoor-themed getaway.
• Bishop's Stortford: Nestled near the border with Hertfordshire, Bishop's Stortford is a charming market town that combines historic character with modern amenities. Visitors are drawn here for family outings and outdoor adventures, particularly during peak times in April, July, and September. The town's shopping areas and centres are complemented by lush golf courses and scenic parks. Take time to wander the historic streets and visit notable landmarks, such as ancient houses that tell the story of the town's rich heritage. Bishop's Stortford offers a delightful blend of the old and new, making it a must-visit on your Essex itinerary.

Things to do in Essex

Shopping

Discover Essex's Lakeside Shopping Centre, a vibrant hub with a mix of high street shops and eateries. Visit the historic market in Chelmsford, where you can find unique gifts and local produce, all in a charming atmosphere that showcases the essence of the region.

Recreation

The Retreat at Lavenham offers a tranquil atmosphere with rejuvenating spa treatments and wellness classes, set within picturesque surroundings. For outdoor enthusiasts, Hylands Park features expansive green spaces, scenic walking paths, and a beautiful lake, ideal for relaxation and leisurely strolls amidst nature.

Adventure

The Essex coastline offers thrilling water sports at places like Jaywick, where you can try paddleboarding or windsurfing. For an adrenaline rush, visit Adventure Island in Southend-on-Sea, featuring roller coasters and funfair rides, all set against beautiful seaside views.

Nightlife

Explore the vibrant nightlife in Chelmsford at the Slug and Lettuce, where you can enjoy cocktails and a lively atmosphere. For a laid-back evening, visit the Ale House for an impressive selection of ales and occasional live music from local artists.

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 outdoor activities and family-friendly experiences, making it an ideal holiday destination. Visitors can explore urban parks, nature reserves, and enchanting forests, catering to those seeking cultural immersion and adventure. With a variety of points of interest, Essex invites travellers to enjoy its scenic beauty and vibrant atmosphere, perfect for creating lasting memories.

• Epping Forest: Experience the natural beauty of Epping Forest, a sprawling ancient woodland perfect for outdoor adventures. Enjoy walking, cycling, or horse riding amidst a backdrop of lush greenery and diverse wildlife, creating a serene escape from urban life.
• Bridge End Gardens: Nestled in the heart of Essex, Bridge End Gardens offers a charming urban park experience. With beautifully landscaped gardens, family-friendly spaces, and picturesque views, it's an ideal spot for leisurely strolls or picnics with loved ones.
• Kelvedon Hatch Secret Nuclear Bunker: Delve into history at Kelvedon Hatch, a fascinating military museum. Explore the underground bunker that once served as a Cold War command centre, providing insights into the era's culture and military strategies.

The nearest major airports for your trip to Essex

Visiting Essex can be easily accomplished by flying into one of its major airports. London Heathrow (LHR) is situated 71km away, with excellent hotels like the 5-star Sofitel London Heathrow, 3km from the airport, and Great Fosters, 10km away. London Gatwick (LGW) is 77km from Essex, offering options such as the 5-star Alexander House And Utopia Spa, 8km away, and Windfalls Boutique Hotel, 5km away. However, London Stansted (STN) is the closest, located 23km from Essex, featuring hotels like the 4-star Radisson Blu Hotel, just 322m from the airport, and Novotel London Stansted Airport, 3km away.