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Top reasons to visit Essex

• Outdoor Adventures: Essex offers a variety of outdoor activities, including sailing and woodland strolls, perfect for nature lovers.
• Family-Friendly Attractions: The region boasts adventure parks and accessible inland towns, ensuring fun for all ages.
• Rich Cultural Scene: Explore historic houses and vibrant markets that reflect Essex's unique heritage.
• Charming Accommodation: Choose from delightful bed and breakfasts to modern hotels, catering to diverse preferences.
• Serene Nature Escapes: Discover tranquil parks and scenic landscapes that provide a perfect backdrop for relaxation.

Find great hotels in Essex

Discover a range of delightful hotel accommodations in Essex, perfect for your visit. From charming bed and breakfasts to modern hotels, you'll find options that cater to business travellers, pet owners, and those seeking an LGBTQIA-friendly environment. With accessible rooms and local amenities like the AA pub, enjoy a memorable stay in this scenic region of the UK.

• Hampton by Hilton London Stansted Airport: This 3-star hotel is the perfect choice for business travellers and those seeking an LGBTQIA-friendly environment. The Hampton by Hilton London Stansted Airport prides itself on providing a welcoming atmosphere with modern amenities designed for comfort and convenience. Guests can enjoy a complimentary hot breakfast, a well-equipped fitness centre, and free Wi-Fi throughout the property. Its close proximity to Stansted Airport makes it an ideal base for those with early flights, while the vibrant local area offers a range of dining options to explore.
• Radisson Blu Hotel London Stansted Airport: As a 4-star eco-certified hotel, the Radisson Blu London Stansted Airport is a great option for environmentally conscious travellers. This hotel features contemporary design and a range of sustainable practices, ensuring a guilt-free stay. Guests can indulge in modern dining at the on-site restaurant, unwind at the stylish bar, and enjoy the relaxing spa facilities. With spacious rooms equipped with all the latest comforts and just a short distance from the airport, this hotel seamlessly combines luxury with eco-friendly initiatives.
• Ramada by Wyndham London Stansted Airport: This 3.5-star hotel stands out for its pet-friendly policy, making it an excellent choice for those travelling with furry companions. The Ramada by Wyndham London Stansted Airport offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, featuring comfortable rooms equipped with convenient amenities. Guests can take advantage of the on-site dining options and enjoy easy access to local attractions. With a pet policy that accommodates various needs, this hotel ensures that your beloved pets are not left behind while you explore Essex.

Where to stay in Essex

Essex beckons with its charming blend of outdoor adventures and family-friendly attractions. Discover accessible inland towns nestled amidst acres of woodland, perfect for leisurely strolls and picnics. Explore alternative destinations like the serene Adirondack Park, where nature thrives. With its welcoming atmosphere and budget-friendly options, Essex promises a delightful experience for all types of travellers. Unwind in the picturesque surroundings and immerse yourself in the friendly vibes that this beautiful county has to offer.

• Colchester: Colchester is a historic city in Essex, renowned for its rich heritage and vibrant community. As one of the oldest recorded towns in Britain, it boasts a blend of ancient and modern attractions. Visitors can explore its educational institutions, eclectic shopping centres, and picturesque parks. Peaking in visitor numbers during April, July, and September, Colchester offers a family-friendly atmosphere with a variety of outdoor activities. Key highlights include the iconic Colchester Castle, a visit to the modern university, and leisurely strolls through its historic streets.
• Bishop's Stortford: Located on the border of Essex, Bishop's Stortford is a charming market town that charms visitors with its quaint streets and lively shopping area. This city is perfect for families seeking a city-themed experience, with a variety of theatres and parks to enjoy. Similar to Colchester, it sees an increase in travellers during April, July, and September. Attractions include the historic Stortford Museum and the scenic River Stort, making it an ideal spot for leisurely walks. The vibrant market and delightful eateries add to the town's appeal.
• Clacton-on-Sea: A popular seaside resort in Essex, Clacton-on-Sea is famous for its beautiful beaches and lively promenade. The city experiences a peak in visitors from June to August, attracting families looking for outdoor and beach experiences. With attractions such as the arcade adventure zone and scenic hiking trails, there's plenty to keep everyone entertained. The sandy beaches, including family-friendly and nudist options, are perfect for sunbathing and water activities. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere with local theatres and the iconic pier offering fun and relaxation.

Things to do in Essex

Essex offers a delightful mix of outdoor adventures and family-friendly activities. Visitors can explore vibrant shopping areas and bustling markets, while adventure parks provide thrilling experiences for all ages. For those seeking active pastimes, sailing and various recreational activities abound, ensuring a memorable vacation filled with excitement and exploration.

Shopping

Braintree Village offers a vibrant shopping experience with a variety of brands in a relaxed setting, perfect for finding gifts. For unique treasures, visit Battlesbridge Antiques and Craft Centre. Alternatively, Forest Drive Shops provide a blend of local boutiques and family-friendly stores, ideal for souvenirs.

Recreation

At Forrester Park Golf Club, enjoy a refreshing round of golf amidst scenic landscapes, perfect for relaxation and outdoor activity. Meanwhile, Warren Golf Club offers a luxurious atmosphere for a more refined experience. Lastly, Lee Valley Park provides serene spaces for wellness and relaxation, ideal for rejuvenating your spirit.

Adventure

Experience the great outdoors at Gilwell Park, where you can camp amidst nature and engage in family-friendly adventures. For a thrilling race, head to Brentwood Karting and feel the adrenaline rush as you speed around the track. Challenge yourself at High Sports with exhilarating climbing experiences.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife in Essex by visiting the Mercury Theatre for a cultural evening filled with romance and entertainment. For an adventurous twist, head to Xtreme Gaming arcadeAdventureZone. Wind down at the Old Sun Inn, a charming pub offering a warm atmosphere perfect for drinks and socialising.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Essex

When planning your trip to Essex, consider visiting between December and February for lower accommodation prices. Sundays are typically the least expensive days to stay, while Saturdays are the priciest. Use Expedia to filter options by budget and location, and sort by price for the best deals. Combining your hotel with flights and activities can lead to additional savings. Explore free activities like parks and local markets to enjoy the area without overspending. These strategies will help you make the most of your visit while keeping costs down.

• 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 options based on your budget, preferred location, and ideal type of accommodation. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking 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 activities, making it an ideal destination for tourists. Visitors can explore urban parks, historic houses, and beautiful forests. With a rich cultural scene and a variety of experiences to enjoy, Essex caters to those seeking both relaxation and adventure in its stunning natural surroundings.

• University of Essex: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of this modern university, renowned for its innovative teaching and diverse student community. Stroll through its beautiful campus, surrounded by contemporary architecture and lush green spaces, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
• St John the Baptist Monastery: Discover the tranquillity and rich cultural heritage of this serene monastery. Its stunning architecture and peaceful gardens offer a unique insight into monastic life, making it an ideal spot for reflection and appreciation of history.
• Ingatestone Hall: Step back in time at this magnificent historic building, blending Tudor architecture with lush gardens. Explore its fascinating history through guided tours that reveal stories of its past residents and the grandeur of English heritage.

The nearest major airports for your trip to Essex

Visiting Essex is convenient with several major airports nearby. London Heathrow (LHR) is 70.8km away, with excellent hotel options such as Sofitel London Heathrow, a luxurious 5-star hotel only 3.2km from the airport, and Great Fosters, another 5-star gem 9.7km away. London Gatwick (LGW), situated 77.2km from Essex, offers the Windfalls Boutique Hotel, a charming 5-star guesthouse 4.8km from the airport, and the Radisson Blu Hotel, just 0.3.2km away. However, London Stansted (STN) is the closest at 22.5km, featuring The Linden Stansted, a 5-star guesthouse 4.8km from the airport, and Novotel London Stansted Airport, 3.2km away.