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Top reasons to visit Essex

• Stunning Nature: Essex boasts beautiful countryside, lush forests, and urban parks, perfect for outdoor adventures and family outings.
• Vibrant Towns: Experience the charm of bustling towns with a mix of quaint boutiques and lively markets for a delightful shopping experience.
• Cultural Experiences: Discover local customs and traditions, creating memorable moments in a friendly atmosphere.
• Close Proximity to London: Enjoy easy access to Central London, making Essex an ideal base for city explorations.
• Diverse Accommodations: From charming guesthouses to modern hotels, Essex offers a range of options to suit every traveller's needs.

Find great hotels in Essex

Explore a diverse range of hotel accommodations in Essex, from charming guesthouses to modern hotels. Whether you're seeking pet-friendly options, business facilities, or an LGBTQIA welcoming atmosphere, Essex has something to offer every traveller. Discover the top hotels and bed & breakfast establishments that ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay in this picturesque region of the United Kingdom.

• Hampton by Hilton London Stansted Airport: This 3-star hotel offers a contemporary and welcoming atmosphere, ideal for business travellers. With a commendable guest rating of 9.0 out of 10, it features well-appointed rooms equipped with modern amenities, including complimentary Wi-Fi and a fitness centre. Guests can enjoy a hearty breakfast buffet to kick-start their day. Its convenient location near Stansted Airport makes it a practical choice for those needing quick access to flights, as well as the local area.
• Radisson Blu Hotel London Stansted Airport: A distinguished 4-star hotel that boasts an eco-friendly ethos, rated 8.4 out of 10 by guests. This hotel is designed with sustainability in mind, offering a sophisticated environment with stylish décor. The Radisson Blu features a range of amenities, including a well-equipped fitness centre and an on-site restaurant serving delicious seasonal cuisine. Its proximity to the airport, combined with its commitment to eco-certification, makes it an excellent choice for environmentally-conscious business travellers.
• The Harlow Hotel By AccorHotels: This 3-star accommodation caters to both business and leisure travellers, offering a pet-friendly policy for those wishing to bring their furry companions along. Eco-certified, it reflects a commitment to sustainability while providing comfortable lodging. Guests appreciate the diverse amenities, including a restaurant and meeting rooms. With a focus on creating a welcoming atmosphere, The Harlow Hotel ensures a pleasant stay with all essential services readily available for both guests and their pets.

Where to stay in Essex

Essex offers a delightful blend of charming countryside and vibrant towns, perfect for outdoor and family adventures. Explore the picturesque landscapes and enjoy a relaxing atmosphere while discovering friendly locals. With a variety of shopping experiences, from quaint boutiques to bustling markets, Essex provides a budget-friendly getaway. Plus, its proximity to Central London makes it an ideal base for those wishing to venture into the capital. Enjoy the best of both worlds in this captivating county.

• Colchester: Known as the oldest recorded town in Britain, Colchester is a charming city that beautifully blends history with modern-day living. Travellers are drawn to its family-friendly attractions, outdoor spaces, and vibrant city atmosphere. The city is home to stunning parks, private gardens, and a modern university, making it an educational hub. Key highlights include the famous Colchester Castle, the beautiful Castle Park, and a variety of shopping centres that cater to all tastes. The city experiences a steady flow of visitors, particularly in spring and early autumn, making it a great destination for year-round exploration.
• Southend-on-Sea: This lively coastal city is famed for its amusement parks, long beaches, and vibrant pier, making it a popular choice for families seeking entertainment and outdoor fun. Southend-on-Sea buzzes with activity, especially during peak seasons in spring and summer, which attracts both locals and tourists. The city boasts a variety of theatres, shopping centres, and mouth-watering dining options along the seafront. Notable attractions include Adventure Island and the beautiful seafront promenade, which provide ample opportunities for relaxation and recreation by the beach.
• Bishop's Stortford: Nestled near the Hertfordshire border, Bishop's Stortford is a picturesque market town that offers a delightful mix of history and modern amenities. Visitors enjoy its family-centric atmosphere, outdoor activities, and charming city vibe. The town features an array of shopping areas and centres, alongside scenic golf courses for leisure enthusiasts. Noteworthy attractions include historic places and houses that tell the rich stories of the region. With consistent visitor numbers throughout the year, this quaint town is an ideal stop for those looking to experience a slice of English heritage.

Things to do in Essex

Shopping

In Essex, explore the vibrant Lakeside Shopping Centre for a mix of high-street and designer brands. Alternatively, visit the historic Colchester Market for unique local crafts and delicious treats. Each offers a distinct shopping atmosphere that showcases the charm of the region.

Recreation

At the tranquil Lifehouse Spa & Hotel, indulge in rejuvenating treatments amidst beautifully landscaped gardens. The spa offers a range of therapies, from massages to wellness classes, providing a peaceful retreat for relaxation. For a blend of nature and wellness, explore the picturesque Dedham Vale, ideal for leisurely walks and mindfulness.

Adventure

Adventure Island in Southend-on-Sea offers thrilling rides and attractions, including roller coasters and water slides. For a more natural experience, explore the scenic trails of Epping Forest, where you can hike, cycle, or horseback ride amidst ancient trees and wildlife.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Sugar Hut in Brentwood, where you can enjoy cocktails and dance the night away. Alternatively, visit the O2 Academy in Islington for live music events featuring diverse genres, accompanied by a lively atmosphere and a friendly crowd.

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 is perfect for family vacations and outdoor adventures, offering a range of activities and attractions. Visitors can explore urban parks, nature reserves, and lush forests, making it an ideal destination for those seeking cultural experiences and outdoor enjoyment. Whether you're looking to unwind in nature or engage in family-friendly activities, Essex has something for everyone to enjoy.

• St John the Baptist Monastery: Nestled in the serene countryside, this monastery offers a tranquil atmosphere for reflection and meditation. Visitors can admire its stunning architecture and peaceful gardens, enhancing the cultural experience of this spiritual haven.
• Ingatestone Hall: A magnificent Grade I listed Tudor mansion, Ingatestone Hall exudes historical charm. The elegant interiors and beautifully landscaped gardens invite exploration, while guided tours reveal fascinating stories of its past residents and events.
• Audley End House: This impressive Jacobean mansion showcases exquisite architecture and lush grounds. With its rich history and opulent rooms, Audley End House provides an immersive glimpse into the lives of the aristocracy, complemented by beautiful gardens to wander.