The Cross Keys Hotel with traditional architecture, a signboard, and adjacent shops.

Essex Vacations & Trips from $1,226

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Your Essex Vacation

Make planning your next epic adventure a breeze with an Essex vacation package. If it's family-friendly attractions, views and nature you're after, you won't be disappointed. Begin your trip to Essex with some time in Bishop's Stortford visiting popular attractions like Hatfield Forest Country Park and The Henry Moore Foundation. Colchester is another city that lures travelers from near and far. Flatford Mill and Colchester Town Hall are two of the top places to see in this destination. Stop dreaming and start packing, because your Essex vacation is just a few clicks away with Expedia.

Top destinations in Essex

The Latest Essex Vacation Packages

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
  • Jan 7 - Jan 14

    Residence Inn by Marriott London Kensington + Flight

    London City Centre
    6 nights
    4.0 star property
    8.6/10 - Excellent (1,381 reviews)
    "Great hotel and location Staff very pleasant"
    Reviewed November 5, 2026
    Roundtrip • Boston (BOS) - London (LHR)
    BOS - LHR • Nonstop LHR - BOS • 1 stop
    $1,783
    $1,226
    per traveler
    found 1 day ago
    Residence Inn by Marriott London Kensington
  • Dec 6 - Dec 11

    Home House Studio - Private members club + Flight

    London City Centre
    4 nights
    3.0 star property
    9.6/10 - Exceptional (36 reviews)
    Roundtrip • Boston (BOS) - London (LHR)
    BOS - LHR • Nonstop LHR - BOS • Nonstop
    $3,759
    $2,278
    per traveler
    found 1 day ago
    Home House Studio - Private members club
  • Jan 6 - Jan 13

    Mandarin Oriental Mayfair, London + Flight

    London City Centre
    6 nights
    5.0 star property
    9.6/10 - Exceptional (50 reviews)
    "Beautiful new hotel in the perfect London Mayfair location still close to Trafalgar, Soho. No nice grand entry, breakfast restaurant so so, rooftop bar neat. Biggest downside is so many rooms that just look out into another room very close by so we tended to just leave drapes shut for privacy which just feels wrong for a $2000 room"
    Reviewed October 17, 2026
    Roundtrip • New York (NYC) - London (LHR)
    EWR - LHR • Nonstop LGW - JFK • 1 stop
    $4,354
    $2,821
    per traveler
    found 23 hours ago
    Mandarin Oriental Mayfair, London
  • Jan 7 - Jan 14

    Hotel Riu Plaza London Victoria + Flight

    London City Centre
    6 nights
    4.0 star property
    9.0/10 - Wonderful (4,103 reviews)
    Roundtrip • Boston (BOS) - London (LHR)
    BOS - LHR • Nonstop LHR - BOS • 1 stop
    $2,136
    $1,408
    per traveler
    found 1 day ago
    Hotel Riu Plaza London Victoria
  • Jan 7 - Jan 14

    Hotel Riu Plaza London The Westminster + Flight

    London City Centre
    6 nights
    4.0 star property
    9.0/10 - Wonderful (2,251 reviews)
    "The hotel was excellent. The staff were extremely helpful & polite . The room was clean & very comfortable. The location was perfect . Would highly recommended."
    Reviewed November 5, 2026
    Roundtrip • Boston (BOS) - London (LHR)
    BOS - LHR • Nonstop LHR - BOS • 1 stop
    $2,061
    $1,377
    per traveler
    found 1 day ago
    Hotel Riu Plaza London The Westminster

Discover the most popular places to visit in Essex

What to do in Essex

Essex Hotel Deals

Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Find out more about Essex

Things to do in Essex

Essex offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures and family-friendly activities for an unforgettable vacation. You can explore shopping centers and recreational areas, enjoy romantic getaways, and experience the thrill of Adventure Island. Don't miss the opportunity for sightseeing around England and engaging in seaside activities, making Essex an ideal destination for fun and relaxation.

Shopping

In Essex, visit Braintree Village for a lively shopping experience with a mix of entertainment and family-friendly vibes. Explore unique finds at Battlesbridge Antiques and Craft Centre, then head to Eastgate Shopping Centre for more shopping and dining options, perfect for souvenirs and gifts.

Recreation

At Forrester Park Golf Club, enjoy a round of golf amidst beautiful landscapes, perfect for relaxation and outdoor fun. Mercury Theatre offers a cultural escape with captivating performances, ideal for a romantic night out. Lastly, Lee Valley Park provides a serene environment for wellness activities and leisurely strolls.

Adventure

Xtreme Gaming offers an exhilarating arcade experience in Essex, filled with thrilling games for the whole family. For an adrenaline rush, Delta Force Paintball Billericay provides an action-packed paintball adventure, while Brentwood Karting lets you race against friends on an exciting track.

Nightlife

Essex boasts a vibrant nightlife with charming pubs like the Old Sun Inn and The Royal Oak. Both venues offer a cozy atmosphere with entertainment and romantic vibes, perfect for enjoying drinks with friends or a loved one while immersing yourself in the local scene.

Find the best attractions in Essex

Located in the heart of southeastern England, Essex is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. Visitors can explore a variety of attractions, including urban parks, historic houses, and lush forests. Whether you're seeking cultural experiences or adventurous outings, Essex offers a diverse range of activities to suit every traveler's interests, making it a perfect getaway for creating unforgettable memories.

  • Audley End House: Explore this grand historic estate that showcases the elegance of the 17th century. With its stunning gardens and rich cultural heritage, visitors can immerse themselves in the opulence of English history.
  • University of Essex: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of this modern university, known for its beautiful campus and diverse student body. Enjoy the contemporary architecture and engaging events that reflect the lively city vibes.
  • Epping Forest: Discover the natural beauty of this expansive forest, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. With countless trails for hiking and biking, it offers a thrilling adventure amid lush greenery and wildlife.

Tips to save on your trip to Essex

  • Combine your flights, hotels and car rentals on Expedia—bundling can result in significant savings.
  • Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically December to February) for more affordable package holidays to Essex.
  • Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
  • Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's included in an Essex vacation package?

An Essex vacation package in Colchester lets you combine flights, hotel stays, and rental cars. Flights typically arrive at London (LHR-Heathrow) Airport. Exactly what's included will vary by hotel and package, so it's worth reviewing the details before you confirm your booking.

How can I save money on a Essex vacation package?

When you bundle, you can save up to 30%*. To save money on a Essex package, consider traveling during the quieter months or be flexible with your dates to find more options. Bundling your flights and hotel together often unlocks savings compared to booking separately. *Members only. Savings vary.

What is the best time to visit Essex?

The best time for an Essex vacation package in Colchester is July, September, and June, when average highs are around 70°F in July and 66°F in September. This timing reflects Colchester specifically, so conditions may differ elsewhere in the region. For example, September also sees events like the Non League Div One - Isthmian North - Buckhurst Hill vs Fakenham Town match. If you'd prefer a quieter trip, consider visiting in January, when highs are around 44°F.

Which destinations should I consider for an Essex vacation?

For an Essex vacation, choosing the right base depends on your travel style:

  • Colchester: A strong choice for families and those interested in cultural attractions and city life, with plenty of lodging options.
  • Clacton-on-Sea: Ideal for beach lovers and families seeking outdoor and adventure activities by the coast.
  • Chelmsford: Suits travelers on a business trip or families looking for city and cultural attractions.
  • Bishop's Stortford: Offers a good base for families and those who enjoy outdoor activities and exploring city attractions.

Is Essex better suited for a beach vacation or a cultural trip?

Essex is primarily an outdoor and nature destination, offering a diverse landscape for various activities. The region also features coastal towns like Clacton-on-Sea and Saint Osyth, which provide beach experiences and water activities. For those interested in history and culture, cities such as Colchester and Chelmsford feature attractions like Colchester Castle Museum and Chelmsford Cathedral. An Essex vacation can be tailored to either preference, or a mix of both, depending on which part of the region you choose to explore.

Which airport should I use for an Essex vacation?

For an Essex vacation, London Stansted Airport (STN) is a primary gateway located directly within the region. Travelers can also consider London Heathrow (LHR) and London Gatwick (LGW) as major international hubs, offering onward travel options to Essex.

What are the top things to do in Essex?

Essex offers a variety of attractions, with many centered around Colchester, a great base for an Essex vacation.


Browse and book things to do in Essex on Expedia.

Can I change or cancel my Essex vacation package if my plans change?

Yes, you can cancel your vacation package via your itinerary page on Expedia or by contacting customer service. Remember that some packages are fully refundable, but the details vary based on each unique booking. A fully refundable package may depend on how far out from the travel dates you're canceling and what airline you are traveling with.

Do One Key members get extra savings when booking Essex vacation packages?

Yes, members who join our free One Key™ travel rewards program can instantly unlock additional savings and save 10% or more on over 500,000 stays worldwide with Member Prices and over 1 million car rentals.

Does Expedia offer Book Now, Pay Later Essex vacation packages?

Yes, with Expedia's Book Now, Pay Later option, powered by Affirm, you can spread the cost of your Essex vacation over 3, 6, or 12 months. With no late payment fees or hidden costs, it's easy to secure your ideal vacation package as soon as you spot it.

How do I find last-minute vacation packages to Essex?

To find last-minute vacation packages to Essex, explore the last-minute deals section for the latest package offers, including flights, departing in the coming weeks. Being flexible with your travel dates and hotel preferences can help you secure the best prices.

How does free cancellation work on Essex vacation packages?

Free cancellation on a Essex vacation package depends on the specific hotel and rate combination you book. Many bookings allow free cancellation up to a stated deadline (often a few days before travel) where eligible. Read the cancellation terms carefully when reviewing the package, and visit Expedia help center for further details.

Is it cheaper to book a Essex vacation as a package or separately?

Booking flights and hotels together can unlock lower overall prices. Better still, you can tailor your Essex getaway to match your exact preference. Pick your preferred flight time, select the hotel type and add a car rental. Explore our bundles to see how much you can save.

Why should I book my Essex vacation package with Expedia?

Booking your vacation package on Expedia makes it easier to get more out of your trip from the start. With a wide choice of hotels, you can compare prices, reviews and amenities all in one place, then bundle your hotel with flights which could help you save even more. Flexible booking options on selected stays also make it easier to plan with confidence.

* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages.