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Top reasons to visit Essex

• Stunning Coastline: Essex boasts beautiful beaches and scenic coastal areas perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities.
• Charming Villages: Explore quaint villages and vibrant towns that offer a friendly atmosphere and local boutiques.
• Diverse Outdoor Activities: From urban parks to lush forests, Essex is ideal for adventure seekers and families alike.
• Rich Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in local events and historic attractions that showcase Essex's vibrant culture.
• Varied Accommodation Options: Enjoy a range of lodging choices, from charming B&Bs to modern hotels, catering to every traveller's needs.

Find great hotels in Essex

Discover a diverse array of accommodation options in Essex, where you can find everything from charming bed and breakfasts to modern hotels. Whether you're seeking a pet-friendly retreat, a business-focused stay, or an LGBTQIA-friendly environment, Essex has something to suit every traveller's needs. Explore the best hotels and top-rated establishments, including those conveniently located near Stansted Airport, ensuring a delightful experience during your visit to this historic region.

• Hampton by Hilton London Stansted Airport: Nestled in the heart of Essex, the Hampton by Hilton London Stansted Airport offers a welcoming environment for travellers seeking a business-focused stay. This 3-star hotel is particularly accommodating for the LGBTQIA community, ensuring a friendly atmosphere for all guests. With multiple meeting rooms and an accessible business centre, it caters perfectly to business travellers needing efficient facilities. Guests can enjoy complimentary breakfast, modern fitness facilities, and a bar area to unwind after a busy day.
• Radisson Blu Hotel London Stansted Airport: As a distinguished 4-star property, the Radisson Blu Hotel London Stansted Airport shines with its eco-certification and commitment to sustainability. Ideal for business travellers, it features extensive meeting spaces and a state-of-the-art conference centre, making it perfect for corporate events. Guests will appreciate the stylishly furnished rooms, a well-equipped business centre, and a restaurant serving delicious cuisine. This hotel combines convenience and eco-friendly practices, ensuring a pleasant stay for conscientious travellers.
• The Harlow Hotel By AccorHotels: This eco-certified 3-star hotel offers a unique blend of pet-friendly and business-oriented accommodations in Essex. The Harlow Hotel By AccorHotels caters to eco-conscious guests while also allowing pets, making it a great choice for those travelling with furry companions. With a range of business amenities, including meeting rooms and a conference space, it is well-equipped for corporate needs. Guests can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere and access to business facilities, alongside a warm welcome for their pets, enhancing the overall experience.

Where to stay in Essex

Essex offers a delightful blend of charming villages and vibrant towns, perfect for family adventures and relaxation. Explore the stunning coastline, indulge in shopping at local boutiques, and enjoy the friendly atmosphere that embodies the region. With its proximity to Suffolk and beautiful sea beaches, Essex is ideal for those seeking both tranquillity and excitement. Whether you're looking to unwind or embark on an outdoor adventure, Essex promises a memorable experience.

• Bishop's Stortford: Nestled on the border of Hertfordshire and Essex, Bishop's Stortford is a charming market town that offers a delightful blend of history and modernity. With its vibrant shopping areas and theatres, it’s a haven for families and urban adventurers alike. The town is particularly lively in April, July, and September, making it an ideal time for visitors to explore its historic streets and local attractions, such as the picturesque Stortford Hall Park and the iconic Bishop's Stortford Museum. Whether you're enjoying a day of shopping or catching a performance at the local theatre, the town's welcoming atmosphere is sure to enhance your travel experience.
• Colchester: As one of the oldest recorded towns in Britain, Colchester is rich in culture and history. Visitors flock here throughout the year, especially during the busy months of April, July, and September. You can explore the impressive Colchester Castle, which houses a museum detailing the town's Roman heritage. Families will also appreciate the lush parks and outdoor spaces, while culture enthusiasts can indulge in the local theatre scene and vibrant arts community. With modern educational institutions and nearby beaches, Colchester offers a diverse array of activities that cater to all interests.
• Southend-on-Sea: Renowned for its lively coastal charm, Southend-on-Sea attracts visitors with its sandy beaches and family-friendly attractions. The peak seasons in April and July to August see throngs of tourists enjoying the iconic Southend Pier, the longest pleasure pier in the world. The town is a hub for entertainment, featuring theatres and shopping centres that provide a delightful mix of leisure and retail therapy. The vibrant atmosphere, complemented by the nearby theme park and beach activities, makes Southend-on-Sea a perfect spot for families seeking fun and relaxation.

Things to do in Essex

Essex offers a delightful mix of outdoor and family activities perfect for an adventurous holiday. Explore its scenic recreational areas, indulge in retail therapy at various shopping centres and malls, and immerse yourself in local events that showcase the vibrant culture. Whether you're seeking thrilling experiences or relaxed outings, Essex has something for everyone to enjoy.

Shopping

Experience shopping at Braintree Village, an excellent outlet centre in Essex with various brands and entertainment options. For unique finds, visit Battlesbridge Antiques and Craft Centre, showcasing charming antiques. Alternatively, explore Forest Drive Shops, a vibrant area perfect for family shopping and local businesses.

Recreation

Warren Golf Club offers a luxurious atmosphere with pristine greens and elegant facilities, perfect for relaxing and enjoying a round of golf. Lee Valley Park provides a tranquil setting for wellness activities, featuring picturesque landscapes for leisurely walks and peaceful picnics. Forrester Park Golf Club combines outdoor sports with stunning scenery, ideal for an active retreat.

Adventure

Gilwell Park offers a fantastic camping experience surrounded by nature, perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts. For adrenaline junkies, the Rayleigh Indoor Karting Stadium promises thrilling races on the track. Meanwhile, High Sports provides an exhilarating climbing experience amidst stunning outdoor settings.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife in Essex by visiting the Mercury Theatre for a captivating show, then enjoy an adventurous evening at Tenpin Bowling Colchester. For a relaxed drink, head to the Old Sun Inn, where you can unwind with great company and a charming atmosphere.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Essex

To save money on your trip to Essex, consider visiting between December and February when prices are lower, especially on Sundays, the cheapest day to stay. Use Expedia to find budget-friendly accommodation by filtering for eco-certified options and arranging packages that combine your hotel with flights and activities for additional savings. Keep an eye out for special offers and travel rewards that can unlock further discounts. Exploring free attractions and utilising affordable public transport can also enhance your experience 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 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: Utilise Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To discover the best 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 families and adventure seekers looking for an outdoor getaway. The region boasts a variety of attractions, including urban parks, historic houses, and lush forests. Whether you seek cultural experiences or family-friendly activities, Essex offers a wealth of points of interest that cater to all types of travellers, ensuring a memorable holiday for everyone.

• Audley End House: Explore this magnificent historic house, which showcases opulent architecture and exquisite gardens. The grandeur of Audley End offers a glimpse into the lives of the English aristocracy, complete with fascinating exhibitions that reveal its rich history.
• University of Essex: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of this modern university, known for its innovative research and diverse student body. With contemporary architecture and lively campuses, the university embodies a blend of academic excellence and city life.
• Epping Forest: Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Epping Forest, a sprawling expanse perfect for outdoor adventures. With its picturesque trails and abundant wildlife, it’s an ideal setting for walking, cycling, and picnicking amidst the tranquil surroundings.

The nearest major airports for your trip to Essex

When visiting Essex, you can fly into several major airports. London Heathrow (LHR) is 70.8km away, with nearby hotels such as the 5-star Sofitel London Heathrow, located 3.2km from the airport, and Great Fosters, 9.7km away. London Gatwick (LGW) is 77.2km away, featuring the Windfalls Boutique Hotel, a 5-star guesthouse 4.8km from the airport. For closer access, London Stansted (STN) is only 22.5km away, with excellent options like the Radisson Blu Hotel, just 0.3.2km from the terminal, and The Linden Stansted, a 5-star guesthouse 4.8km away, ensuring convenient travel for visitors.