Find the best Essex Hotels

Top reasons to visit Essex

• Beautiful Beaches: Essex boasts stunning beaches, perfect for relaxation and seaside fun.
• Family-Friendly Attractions: Enjoy a variety of amusement parks and adventure golf for an exciting day out.
• Rich Cultural and Historical Sites: Explore historic houses and charming villages to learn about local heritage.
• Scenic Countryside: Discover the beautiful English countryside, ideal for leisurely walks and connecting with nature.
• Diverse Accommodation Options: Choose from inviting hotels and charming B&Bs to suit every traveler's needs.

Find great hotels in Essex

Discover a range of delightful accommodation options in Essex, from charming hotels to inviting bed and breakfasts. Whether you're seeking a business-friendly environment, pet-friendly spaces, or LGBTQIA welcoming experiences, Essex has it all. Explore accessible accommodations and unique stays like the AA hotel and abbey rooms, ensuring a memorable visit tailored to your needs.

• Hampton by Hilton London Stansted Airport: This welcoming 3-star hotel is ideal for business travellers seeking a modern and inclusive environment. Located conveniently in Essex, the Hampton by Hilton is known for its commitment to LGBTQIA+ inclusivity, providing guests with a supportive and professional atmosphere. The hotel features excellent business amenities, including a fully accessible business centre and multiple meeting rooms. Guests appreciate the comfortable rooms, complimentary breakfast, and the ease of access to nearby transport links, making it a top choice for both business and leisure stays.
• Radisson Blu Hotel London Stansted Airport: As a sophisticated 4-star hotel, the Radisson Blu is perfect for eco-conscious business travellers. This property stands out for its eco-certification, showcasing a commitment to sustainability while providing premium service. It features well-appointed meeting rooms, a comprehensive business centre, and expansive conference spaces, catering to corporate needs. Guests enjoy the modern decor, comfortable accommodations, and upscale dining options within the hotel, all located conveniently near Essex. The attentive staff and dedication to eco-friendly practices make this a distinguished choice for a responsible stay.
• The Harlow Hotel By AccorHotels: This charming 3-star hotel embraces a pet-friendly and eco-certified ethos, welcoming both LGBTQIA+ travellers and their furry companions. Set in Essex, The Harlow Hotel offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, with amenities that include pet-friendly policies and personalised service. The hotel's eco-friendly practices ensure a sustainable stay, while its comfortable accommodations provide a relaxing environment after a day of exploring. Guests appreciate the tranquil surroundings and the opportunity to unwind in a welcoming setting, making it a delightful option for those travelling with pets or those seeking a socially conscious getaway.

Where to stay in Essex

Essex offers a delightful mix of outdoor adventures and family-friendly activities. Discover charming villages, explore captivating art galleries, and unwind on beautiful beaches. The stunning English countryside provides a relaxing backdrop for your vacation, allowing you to connect with friendly locals and experience the vibrant atmosphere. Whether you're seeking a budget-friendly getaway or an adventurous escape, Essex has something to offer everyone, making it an ideal destination for tourists looking to create lasting memories.

• Bishop's Stortford: Nestled in the picturesque county of Essex, Bishop's Stortford offers a delightful blend of urban charm and scenic beauty. This vibrant city welcomes visitors year-round, with peak travel times in April, July, and September. Ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts, it boasts a variety of attractions including a lively shopping area, a theatre, and a bustling shopping mall. History buffs will appreciate local landmarks such as historic streets and a stadium, while ample green spaces provide perfect spots for relaxation and recreation.
• Colchester: Known as Britain’s oldest recorded town, Colchester is a cultural gem within Essex. With a steady influx of visitors throughout the year, this city shines particularly in April, July, and September. Colchester is perfect for families and culture seekers, featuring a rich blend of educational venues, theatres, and shopping centres. Notable attractions include a historic castle, modern college campuses, and nearby beaches that offer a refreshing escape. The city's vibrant atmosphere and heritage make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Essex.
• Southend-on-Sea: Renowned for its coastal charm, Southend-on-Sea is a lively city that captures the essence of seaside fun. Popular among families and outdoor adventurers, it sees a surge in visitors during the warmer months, particularly in April and from July to August. Here, you can enjoy the beach, entertain the kids at a theme park, or shop at the extensive shopping centres and malls. The iconic pier and vibrant beachfront area offer endless opportunities for leisure and enjoyment, making Southend-on-Sea a fantastic addition to your Essex itinerary.

Things to do in Essex

Essex is perfect for a family adventure, offering a variety of outdoor activities and attractions. Enjoy recreational areas, explore bustling shopping centres, and indulge in exciting experiences such as adventure golf and amusement rides. Don't miss the chance to unwind at beautiful beach getaways and visit thrilling amusement parks, ensuring a memorable holiday for everyone.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience in Essex, visit Braintree Village for a mix of entertainment and family-friendly vibes. Explore unique finds at Battlesbridge Antiques and Craft Centre, or head to Forest Drive Shops for a charming local atmosphere filled with various businesses.

Recreation

At Forrester Park Golf Club, enjoy a round of golf amidst beautiful landscapes, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Warren Golf Club offers a luxurious atmosphere for a refined golfing experience. Lee Valley Park provides serene trails and scenic spots, ideal for relaxation and wellness activities in nature.

Adventure

At Gilwell Park, immerse yourself in nature with camping and outdoor activities perfect for families. Feel the thrill at Rayleigh Indoor Karting Stadium as you race against friends on an exhilarating track. For climbing enthusiasts, High Sports offers challenging routes that promise adventure and excitement in the great outdoors.

Nightlife

In Essex, the Mercury Theatre captivates with its cultural performances, ideal for a romantic night out. For an adventurous thrill, Xtreme Gaming offers an exciting arcade experience. If you're seeking a relaxed evening, the Old Sun Inn provides a charming pub atmosphere with entertainment and romance.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Essex

To save money on your trip to Essex, consider visiting between December and February when accommodation prices drop. Sundays are the cheapest days to stay, while Saturdays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia’s search tool to filter by budget and eco-friendly options, and consider booking a package that combines flights and hotel for additional savings. Take advantage of free activities and explore the area on foot, as public transport can be costly. Planning your visit during the off-peak season will help you make the most of your budget.

• 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 most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You could potentially save money by combining your Essex hotel reservation with your flights and activities by opting for an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Essex

Essex offers a delightful blend of outdoor, family, and adventure experiences, making it an ideal holiday destination. Visitors can explore a variety of attractions, including urban parks, historic houses, and lush forests. The region caters to those seeking culture and outdoor activities, ensuring a memorable experience for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history or simply enjoying nature, Essex has something for every traveller.

• Audley End House: A magnificent historic house showcasing stunning architecture and beautiful gardens. Explore the lavish interiors filled with rich history and culture, providing a glimpse into the grandeur of English heritage.
• University of Essex: This vibrant modern university offers a dynamic atmosphere with its contemporary architecture and diverse student body. Enjoy cultural events, exhibitions, and the picturesque campus, perfect for soaking up the youthful city vibes.
• Epping Forest: A sprawling forest ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring scenic trails for walking, cycling, and horse riding. Experience the tranquillity of nature while embarking on adventures through ancient woodlands and open spaces.

The nearest major airports for your trip to Essex

When visiting Essex, you have several airport options for your arrival. London Heathrow (LHR) is situated 70.8km away, with excellent nearby hotels like the 5-star Sofitel London Heathrow, just 3.2km from the airport. London Gatwick (LGW) is 77.2km from Essex, offering accommodations such as the Windfalls Boutique Hotel, a charming 5-star guesthouse located 4.8km away. The most convenient option is London Stansted (STN), located a mere 22.5km from Essex, where you can find the Radisson Blu Hotel, just 0.3.2km from the terminal. Each airport provides accessible transport options to ensure a smooth journey to your destination.