Search Hotels in Essex

Top reasons to visit Essex

• Family-Friendly Activities: Essex boasts a variety of attractions perfect for family outings, from thrilling rides to educational experiences.
• Charming Neighborhoods: Explore welcoming local neighborhoods that offer a relaxing atmosphere and vibrant city life.
• Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy lush parks and forests, providing plenty of opportunities for outdoor fun and exploration.
• Diverse Accommodations: Choose from luxurious hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts, catering to all budgets and preferences.
• Rich Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in local history through historic houses and cultural events throughout the region.

Find great hotels in Essex

When visiting Essex, you’ll discover a diverse array of accommodations, from luxurious hotels to charming bed and breakfasts. Whether you're seeking pet-friendly options or a welcoming atmosphere for LGBTQIA travelers, the region offers something for everyone. With a focus on business travel amenities and numerous favorable hotel reviews, Essex presents an ideal setting for your vacation, ensuring a memorable stay tailored to your needs.

• Hampton by Hilton London Stansted Airport: Located conveniently at Stansted Airport, this 3-star hotel offers a welcoming atmosphere for both business and leisure travelers. It features modern rooms equipped with cozy bedding and contemporary amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. The hotel is LGBTQIA-friendly, making it an inclusive choice for all guests. Enjoy complimentary breakfast options each morning, as well as a fitness center to keep up with your routine. With its proximity to the airport, it's perfect for those catching early flights or needing quick access to London.
• Radisson Blu Hotel London Stansted Airport: This 4-star eco-certified hotel is an ideal choice for environmentally conscious travelers. Located adjacent to Stansted Airport, it offers upscale accommodations with elegant design and modern conveniences. Guests can indulge in a variety of dining options, including a restaurant serving locally sourced dishes. The hotel features a wellness center and meeting facilities, catering to business travelers. Its commitment to sustainability, alongside luxurious amenities, makes it a standout option for those wanting to combine comfort with eco-friendliness.
• The Harlow Hotel By AccorHotels: A charming 3-star accommodation, The Harlow Hotel combines comfort with a pet-friendly policy, welcoming travelers with dogs and cats. This hotel is LGBTQIA-inclusive and caters to business travelers, providing essential amenities for a productive stay. Guests can enjoy spacious rooms and on-site dining options. With its convenient location near major transport links, it’s a great base for exploring Essex and beyond. The hotel's pet policy ensures that your furry companions can join you, making it a perfect choice for pet owners looking to travel.

Where to stay in Essex

Embark on an unforgettable vacation in Essex, where family-friendly attractions meet charming towns and vibrant city life. Discover the welcoming atmosphere of local neighborhoods, perfect for a relaxing getaway. Explore the Essex campus and indulge in the best accommodations that cater to all budgets. With a mix of outdoor activities and cultural experiences, Essex offers a delightful escape for every traveler, ensuring a memorable family adventure in the heart of England.

• Colchester: Rich in history and culture, Colchester is England's oldest recorded town, offering a unique blend of ancient and modern experiences. Located in the heart of Essex, it features landmarks such as the stunning Colchester Castle and the beautiful Castle Park. With a mix of educational institutions and shopping centers, the city caters to families and urban explorers alike. The peak travel seasons in April, July, and September provide visitors with numerous outdoor activities and family-friendly events, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a vibrant city experience.
• Southend-on-Sea: This lively coastal city is known for its beautiful beaches and family-friendly atmosphere. Southend-on-Sea boasts a famous pier, which is the longest pleasure pier in the world, offering stunning views of the Thames estuary. The city thrives during its peak months of April and July to August, attracting visitors with its cultural venues like theaters and numerous shopping opportunities. Visitors can enjoy outdoor recreational activities along the beach and explore historic sites, making Southend-on-Sea a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration.
• Clacton-on-Sea: Famous for its picturesque beaches, Clacton-on-Sea is a quintessential British seaside resort that comes alive in the summer months from June to August. Known for its vibrant family beach and an array of entertainment options, including arcade adventure zones and lively theaters, Clacton caters to those seeking both outdoor fun and cultural experiences. The town's beautiful beaches, including a nudist beach, provide ample opportunities for sunbathing and seaside activities. With a welcoming atmosphere and seasonal events, Clacton-on-Sea is a delightful destination for vacationers.

Things to do in Essex

Essex offers a fantastic blend of family-friendly activities, outdoor adventures, and urban experiences. Visitors can enjoy vibrant shopping areas, bustling markets, and modern shopping centers. The region is also home to thrilling rides, inviting outdoor seating, and various educational opportunities at local attractions. Whether you're seeking excitement or relaxation, Essex promises a memorable vacation filled with diverse activities for everyone.

Shopping

In Essex, you can enjoy shopping at Braintree Village, a vibrant outlet mall offering a variety of stores and entertainment. For unique items, visit Battlesbridge Antiques and Craft Centre. Don't miss Eastgate Shopping Centre for a mix of high street shops and family-friendly activities.

Recreation

Forrester Park Golf Club offers a refreshing outdoor experience with its beautiful golf course, perfect for sports enthusiasts. Warren Golf Club provides a luxurious setting for a private retreat, while Lee Valley Park invites you to unwind in nature, featuring serene paths and tranquil spots for relaxation.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of racing at Brentwood Karting, where adrenaline meets speed in an exciting outdoor venue. For climbing enthusiasts, High Sports offers a challenging outdoor climbing experience amidst beautiful scenery. Delta Force Paintball Billericay provides an exhilarating adventure with paintball battles in a dynamic environment.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife in Essex by visiting the Mercury Theatre for captivating performances, or enjoy family fun at Xtreme Gaming's AdventureZone. For more theatrical charm, the West Cliff Theatre offers delightful shows, all set within a lively cultural atmosphere that promises unforgettable evenings.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Essex

For a budget-friendly trip to Essex, consider visiting between December and February, when prices are lower compared to the summer months. Sundays are the cheapest days to stay, while Saturdays are the priciest. Use Expedia's search tool to filter hotels by budget and explore eco-friendly options. For the best deals, sort by price and check out package deals that combine hotels, flights, and activities. Take advantage of free attractions and public transport options to save even more during your visit.

• 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: Utilize Expedia's search tool to customize your travel preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and type of hotel you’re looking for. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will showcase sustainable and eco-friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in Essex with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Essex

Essex is an ideal destination for family vacations, offering a blend of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. Visitors can explore urban parks, historic houses, and lush forests, ensuring there's something for everyone. Whether you're seeking a fun-filled family outing or a chance to immerse yourself in local history, Essex has a variety of attractions that cater to diverse interests and provide lasting memories.

• Audley End House: This stunning historic house offers a glimpse into England's aristocratic past. Explore the beautifully landscaped gardens and opulent interiors, where you can immerse yourself in rich culture and history.
• University of Essex: Known for its modern architecture and vibrant campus life, the University of Essex provides a unique blend of educational excellence and city vibes. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and diverse community that enriches the experience.
• Epping Forest: A sprawling natural wonder, Epping Forest is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. With endless trails for hiking and biking, it's an adventure lover's paradise, offering a refreshing escape into nature.

The nearest major airports for your trip to Essex

When traveling to Essex, you have several major airports to choose from. London Heathrow (LHR) is 70.8km away and offers nearby hotels such as the 5-star Sofitel London Heathrow, just 3.2km from the airport, and Great Fosters, 9.7km away. London Gatwick (LGW) is 77.2km away, with excellent options like the 5-star Alexander House And Utopia Spa, 8.0km from the airport, and Windfalls Boutique Hotel, 4.8km away. The closest option is London Stansted (STN), located 22.5km from Essex, featuring the Radisson Blu Hotel, just 0.3.2km from the airport, and Novotel London Stansted Airport, 3.2km away. Each hotel provides convenient access to their respective airports.