Essex travel guide
Essex Cottage Holidays
Where old and new come together
Essex is a county that brings together old and new. Its natural beauty and stately homes rich in history, complement the wealth of events and entertainment on offer. Whatever the season, there is something in Essex for you.
From Essex’s only city to its many small villages, there is a corner of this county to call your own. Choose from activity packed breaks or a relaxing holiday away from the crowds. The beaches are well known for their sparkling seas and proximity to London, but there is more to be found inland. From Colchester Zoo to the gardens in Saffron Walden, there are attractions to suit all interests, as well as a full calendar of annual events.
Essex is graced with a beautiful coastline and welcoming beaches, such as this one on Mersea Island. It’s perfect for a bracing walk in the winter, or a quick dip in the summer.
There is plenty of history and culture to be found in Essex. From a full calendar of events, impressive stately homes like Audley End House and this amazing Victorian lighthouse, there’s lots to explore.
From nature reserves to the zoo in Colchester, there are plenty of animals to be found here. Embrace the great outdoors in Essex; there’s plenty of walks to enjoy and a beautiful coastline to explore too.
Your photos of The Lakes
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Explore Essex
Mersea Island
This 7 square mile island, offers seaside fun and beautiful views. The sand and shingle beaches are unsurprisingly popular in the summer, but there are also great places to eat and top attractions to enjoy.
Southend-on-Sea
Found on the Thames Estuary, Southend-on-Sea offers seaside fun within easy reach of London. With crazy golf, seafront amusements, and events throughout the year, there is lots for your whole group to enjoy here.
Walton-on-the-Naze
The small town of Walton-on-the-Naze is surrounded by sea on three sides, making it an ideal spot for a coastal getaway. Enjoy the lovely beach, fossil hunting and the second longest pier in England.
Types of Holiday in Essex
Pet friendly
Essex is a lovely place to enjoy a cottage holiday with your dog. Miles of countryside, plenty of fresh air and lots of pet friendly accommodation make this a pet-lover’s paradise.
Hot tubs
Imagine relaxing into warm bubbles after a long day in the great outdoors. This could soon be a reality in one of our lovely cottages with a hot tub in Essex. Add some luxury to your stay.
Log fires
When the evening draws in and there’s a chill in the air, what could be better than curling up in front of a roaring fire. Essex has dozens of cosy cottages with log fires.
Nearby places
Suffolk
Home to a beautiful coastline and a rich history; Suffolk has plenty to enjoy come rain or shine. Soak up the fresh air and natural beauty or take in one of the top attractions.
KENT
Kent, with its plentiful orchards and hop gardens, is often known as the ‘Garden of England’. There is certainly lots of green space to explore here, and a gorgeous coastline too.
Hertfordshire
North of London, Hertfordshire has a winning combination of green space and top attractions. From the Warner Bros. Studio Tour to amazing stately homes, there’s lots to see and do.
