Search Hotels in Essex

Top reasons to visit Essex

• Scenic Countryside: Explore the picturesque Essex countryside, ideal for nature walks and outdoor adventures.
• Family-Friendly Activities: Enjoy a variety of attractions suitable for all ages, ensuring a memorable experience for families.
• Historic Houses: Immerse yourself in the rich culture by visiting historic houses that showcase Essex's heritage.
• Vibrant Shopping Centres: Discover bustling shopping malls and vibrant local markets for a unique shopping experience.
• Diverse Accommodation: Choose from charming bed and breakfasts to top-rated hotels to suit every traveller's needs.

Find great hotels in Essex

Discover a range of exceptional hotel accommodations in Essex, perfect for both business travellers and families seeking a memorable vacation. From charming bed and breakfasts to top-rated hotels, Essex offers a variety of options to suit your needs. Enjoy pet-friendly facilities and modern amenities while exploring this vibrant region of the United Kingdom. Whether you're searching for the best hotels or a great place to unwind, Essex has something for everyone.

• Hampton by Hilton London Stansted Airport: This welcoming 3-star hotel is perfect for travellers seeking a business-themed getaway with a friendly atmosphere. Located conveniently in Essex, the Hampton by Hilton London Stansted Airport offers a variety of amenities tailored for business needs, including accessible business centres and multiple meeting rooms. With its affiliation to LGBTQI travel guides, it ensures an inclusive environment for all guests. The modern rooms are designed for comfort and productivity, making it an excellent choice for those needing a functional yet inviting stay.
• Radisson Blu Hotel London Stansted Airport: A sophisticated 4-star retreat, the Radisson Blu Hotel London Stansted Airport is ideal for eco-conscious travellers seeking a blend of comfort and sustainability. This eco-certified property boasts a range of business amenities, including a comprehensive conference centre and meeting rooms, catering to corporate guests. The hotel’s stylish design and eco-friendly initiatives appeal to those who value both luxury and environmental responsibility. Its strategic location in Essex ensures easy access to key transport links, making it a prime choice for business professionals.
• The Harlow Hotel By AccorHotels: As a 3-star eco-certified hotel, The Harlow Hotel By AccorHotels offers a harmonious blend of sustainability and business-friendly services. Located in Essex, this hotel welcomes LGBTQIA guests and provides accessible business centres, meeting rooms, and conference spaces. Guests appreciate the commitment to eco-friendly practices alongside comfortable accommodations. The modern design and convenient access to local attractions make it a fantastic option for those looking to balance work and leisure during their stay.

Where to stay in Essex

Essex offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and family-friendly activities, making it an ideal vacation spot. Explore the picturesque Essex countryside, enjoy a round of golf, or venture into East and Central London for a vibrant city experience. With its welcoming atmosphere and budget-friendly options, Essex is perfect for travellers seeking relaxation and friendly encounters. Whether you're planning a holiday or a quick getaway, Essex has something for everyone.

• Bishop's Stortford: Nestled at the border of Essex and Hertfordshire, Bishop's Stortford is a charming market town with a rich history and a vibrant community. Visitors are drawn to its family-friendly atmosphere and outdoor experiences, particularly in the picturesque parks and historic streets. The town features a bustling shopping area, a lively theatre, and a modern shopping mall centre, catering to a variety of tastes. Notable landmarks include the historic St. Michael's Church and the nearby Stansted Airport, providing convenient travel options. With an array of dining and entertainment options, Bishop's Stortford is an ideal base for exploring the surrounding countryside.
• Colchester: Known as Britain's oldest recorded town, Colchester boasts a fascinating blend of culture and history. Located in the heart of Essex, it offers a range of outdoor activities and cultural experiences for families. The town is home to the impressive Colchester Castle and a modern university, creating a vibrant educational environment. Visitors can enjoy theatres showcasing local talent, as well as a delightful shopping centre. Colchester's proximity to the beautiful Mersea Island beach adds to its charm, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely day by the sea.
• Southend-on-Sea: A bustling seaside resort, Southend-on-Sea is famous for its long pebble beach and iconic pier, which stretches over 1.1.9km into the Thames estuary. This lively city is perfect for families seeking outdoor entertainment, with attractions such as Adventure Island theme park and various theatres. The vibrant shopping centres and malls provide a diverse retail experience. With a variety of restaurants and cafes lining the beach, Southend-on-Sea offers a lively atmosphere, especially during the summer months when visitors flock to enjoy its sun-soaked shores.

Things to do in Essex

Essex offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and family-friendly activities, making it an ideal destination for a day trip. Enjoy the scenic recreational areas, explore vibrant shopping centres, and visit bustling shopping malls. Whether you're seeking nature walks or lively local markets, Essex promises a memorable experience filled with diverse attractions for every visitor.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience in Essex, visit Braintree Village for a mix of shops in a vibrant setting. Eastgate Shopping Centre offers a variety of stores, perfect for families. If you're up for a drive, check out Battlesbridge Antiques and Craft Centre for unique gifts and crafts.

Recreation

At Topgolf Chigwell, enjoy a lively atmosphere with golf and entertainment, perfect for socialising while staying active. Warren Golf Club offers a luxurious experience amidst beautiful landscapes, ideal for relaxation and leisure. Lee Valley Park provides a serene environment, perfect for wellness activities and unwinding in nature.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of nature at Gilwell Park, a vibrant campground perfect for outdoor adventures with family. For climbing enthusiasts, High Sports offers exhilarating routes amidst stunning surroundings. Alternatively, dive into fun at Festival Wakeboard Park, where water sports and entertainment await for an unforgettable day out.

Nightlife

Experience a delightful evening at West Cliff Theatre, where you can enjoy captivating performances in a romantic atmosphere. For a fun-filled adventure, visit Xtreme Gaming Arcade, perfect for all ages. Wind down at the Old Sun Inn, a charming pub offering entertainment and a cosy vibe for a lovely night out.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Essex

To save money during your visit to Essex, consider travelling from December to February when accommodation prices are lower, with Sunday being the cheapest day to stay. Use Expedia’s search tool to compare rates and find great deals by sorting prices from lowest to highest, and consider booking a package to combine your hotel with flights and activities for extra savings. Additionally, explore free activities in the area and utilise the affordable public transport options available to navigate Essex without overspending.

• 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 choices based on your budget, preferred location, and the type of hotel you desire. To find the most affordable prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You could potentially save money by combining your hotel stay in Essex with your flights and activities by opting for a package through Expedia.

Find the best attractions in Essex

Essex is perfect for outdoor family adventures, offering a delightful mix of urban parks, serene forests, and historic houses to explore. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich culture while enjoying various activities suitable for all ages. Whether you're seeking a peaceful day in nature or a glimpse into the past, Essex promises a memorable experience filled with diverse attractions for every traveller.

• Audley End House: Explore the grandeur of Audley End House, a magnificent historic mansion set amidst beautiful gardens. This stunning estate offers a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of the Victorian era, complete with guided tours detailing its rich history and cultural significance.
• Epping Forest: Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Epping Forest, a vast expanse of ancient woodland ideal for outdoor adventures. Whether you fancy a leisurely walk, cycling, or wildlife spotting, this enchanting forest provides a refreshing escape from urban life.
• University of Essex: Visit the University of Essex, a modern campus known for its vibrant atmosphere and innovative research. Take a stroll through its picturesque grounds, enjoy the contemporary architecture, and experience the lively student culture.

Best time to go to Essex

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The nearest major airports for your trip to Essex

Essex is conveniently accessible via three major airports. London Heathrow (LHR) is located 27.3km away, with nearby hotels such as the 5-star Sofitel London Heathrow, just 1.2km from the airport, and Great Fosters, 3.7km away. London Gatwick (LGW), 29.8km from Essex, offers luxury at Alexander House And Utopia Spa, 3.1km from the airport, and Windfalls Boutique Hotel, 1.9km away. The closest option is London Stansted (STN), situated 8.7km from Essex, featuring The Linden Stansted, a guesthouse just 1.9km away, and the Radisson Blu Hotel, a mere 0.1.2km from the terminal.