Search Hotels in Essex

Top reasons to visit Essex

• Stunning Coastline: Enjoy beautiful beaches and scenic coastal walks that offer a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
• Historic Attractions: Explore iconic sites like Colchester Castle and immerse yourself in Essex's rich history.
• Family-Friendly Activities: Visit attractions like Colchester Zoo, providing fun experiences for visitors of all ages.
• Outdoor Recreation: Discover lush forests and urban parks, ideal for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying nature.
• Diverse Accommodations: Choose from budget inns to luxurious hotels, ensuring a comfortable stay for every traveler.

Find great hotels in Essex

Discover the diverse hotel accommodations in Essex, where comfort meets convenience. Whether you're seeking budget-friendly inns or luxurious 5-star hotels, there's something for everyone. Essex caters to various travelers, offering family-friendly amenities, pet-friendly options, and business-focused services. With a plethora of popular hotels and holiday inns, your ideal getaway awaits in this charming region of the United Kingdom.

• Radisson Blu Hotel London Stansted Airport: Embracing a modern design with eco-conscious practices, the Radisson Blu Hotel London Stansted Airport is perfect for business travelers seeking comfort and sustainability. This 4-star hotel features a range of amenities tailored for corporate needs, including a well-equipped Business Center, multiple Meeting Rooms, and expansive Conference Space. Its eco-certification ensures that environmentally friendly travelers can enjoy their stay with peace of mind. Located conveniently near Stansted Airport, it allows for easy access while providing a tranquil atmosphere to unwind after a busy day.
• Hampton by Hilton London Stansted Airport: With its welcoming ambiance and practical amenities, the Hampton by Hilton London Stansted Airport is a 3-star haven for travelers focused on efficiency and comfort. This hotel caters to business guests with a fully accessible Business Center and multiple Meeting Rooms designed for collaboration and productivity. Located conveniently near the airport, it offers easy access for those on the go. Guests can expect complimentary breakfast options to kickstart their day, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking for convenience and value.
• Holiday Inn Express London Stansted Airport, an IHG Hotel: Combining comfort with excellent dining options, the Holiday Inn Express London Stansted Airport offers a relaxed atmosphere with a variety of amenities. Guests can enjoy free breakfast on weekdays and weekends, alongside dining at the on-site restaurant. The hotel features entertainment options, including Digital TV and billiards, ensuring a pleasant stay. Situated near the airport, it provides easy access for travelers, while the comfortable rooms focus on relaxation after a day of exploration or business meetings.

Discover the best areas to stay in Essex

Essex offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures, family-friendly attractions, and historic charm. Explore the scenic coastline and relaxing beaches, or venture into rural Essex for a taste of the countryside. Don't miss the vibrant atmosphere of North London nearby, perfect for shopping and dining. With friendly locals and a welcoming vibe, your few days in Essex promise unforgettable experiences that cater to both adventure seekers and those looking to unwind.

• Clacton-on-Sea: Nestled along the coast of Essex, Clacton-on-Sea is a charming seaside town perfect for a family getaway. The beach is the star attraction, offering sandy shores and a lively promenade filled with arcades and funfair attractions. Peak season occurs from June to August, drawing visitors looking to enjoy outdoor activities, family-friendly experiences, and the sun-soaked beach vibes. Don't miss the local landmarks, including the nudist beach and recreational areas that promise a variety of leisure activities. Whether you're indulging in seaside fish and chips or enjoying the local theater, Clacton-on-Sea offers a delightful vacation experience.
• Colchester: Known as Britain's oldest recorded town, Colchester is steeped in history and culture. This vibrant city welcomes visitors year-round, with peak tourist periods in April, July, and September. With an abundance of educational attractions, parks, and theaters, Colchester provides a rich cultural experience alongside family-friendly activities. Explore historic sites, including the famous Colchester Castle, and enjoy the serene parks that dot the city. Colchester’s blend of modern college energy and historic charm makes it a unique destination for travelers seeking both adventure and learning.
• Bishop's Stortford: A picturesque market town located near the Essex-Hertfordshire border, Bishop's Stortford offers a delightful mix of family, outdoor, and city experiences. The town sees consistent visitor numbers throughout the year, with peaks in April, July, and September. You can enjoy shopping in its quaint streets, relax in local parks, or catch a performance at the theater. The town’s rich history is evident in its beautiful architecture and historic places, making it an intriguing stop for those interested in both leisure and culture. Bishop's Stortford is perfect for a leisurely day of exploration and enjoyment.

Things to do in Essex

Essex offers a fantastic vacation for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike, featuring a variety of activities. You can enjoy recreational areas, shop at bustling shopping centers and malls, or plan a weekend escape. Don't miss the relaxing Eden Spa and the family-friendly Colchester Zoo, which also has nearby hotels for a convenient stay. Essex is the perfect destination for adventure and relaxation.

Food and drinks

Indulge in a diverse culinary scene in Essex. Enjoy North American flavors at Smith Brasserie, savor Mexican dishes at El Guaca, or slurp delicious noodles at North Hill Noodle Bar, offering a taste of authentic Chinese cuisine.

Shopping

In Essex, you can explore the Eastgate Shopping Centre for a diverse shopping experience filled with family-friendly vibes. For unique finds, visit the Battlesbridge Antiques and Craft Centre. If you're up for a drive, check out the Forest Drive Shops for more local treasures.

Recreation

Topgolf Chigwell offers a fun golfing experience with a lively atmosphere, perfect for sports enthusiasts. For those seeking luxury, Warren Golf Club provides an exclusive country club ambiance. Lee Valley Park is ideal for relaxation, featuring beautiful landscapes and wellness activities amidst nature's tranquility.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of racing at Rayleigh Indoor Karting Stadium, where you can test your driving skills on a challenging track. For a vertical adventure, High Sports offers exhilarating climbing experiences in a scenic outdoor setting. Engage in exciting battles at Laser Warfare, a fun-filled adventure activity for all ages.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife in Essex by catching a show at the Mercury Theatre, where culture meets romance. For a fun family adventure, visit Hollywood Bowl in Basildon. If you're in the mood for a cozy drink, the Old Sun Inn offers a charming pub atmosphere perfect for relaxation.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Essex

To save money on your trip to Essex, consider visiting popular free attractions like Epping Forest and Festival Leisure Park. The best time to book your stay is from November to January when prices are lower. Use Expedia to find budget-friendly accommodations by filtering for eco-certified hotels and arranging results by price. Take advantage of package deals that combine flights and hotels, and join Expedia's One Key membership for exclusive discounts and future savings through OneKeyCash. Additionally, explore flexible booking options for added convenience.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Essex are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to July to August and October, where prices are slightly higher.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to narrow down your options based on your preferences, such as budget, desired location, and type of hotel you’re looking for. For instance, by selecting the "Eco-certified" filter, you can easily find sustainable and eco-friendly hotels that are currently available. To discover 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 deal.
• Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.

Find the best attractions in Essex

Essex is perfect for outdoor, family, and adventure vacations, offering a variety of attractions like forests, historic houses, and urban parks. Popular points of interest include the Center of Essex and the iconic Colchester Castle, catering to those seeking cultural experiences and outdoor fun. Whether you're exploring its rich history or enjoying nature, Essex has something for every traveler.

• Audley End House: Explore this magnificent historic estate, featuring stunning architecture and beautiful gardens. The grand interiors and rich history provide a glimpse into the lives of the wealthy during the Victorian era, making it a must-see for history buffs.
• Epping Forest: Experience the great outdoors in this expansive ancient forest, perfect for hiking, cycling, and adventure. With its diverse wildlife and scenic trails, Epping Forest offers an escape from city life and a chance to connect with nature.
• University of Essex: Visit this vibrant modern university known for its innovative architecture and lively campus atmosphere. Engage with contemporary art exhibitions and cultural events, capturing the essence of student life in a bustling city environment.

The nearest major airports for your trip to Essex

When visiting Essex, you can fly into several major airports. London Heathrow (LHR) is located 44 miles away, with nearby hotels like the 5-star Sofitel London Heathrow, just 2 miles from the airport, and Great Fosters, 6 miles away. London Gatwick (LGW) is 49 miles from Essex, featuring the 5-star Alexander House and Utopia Spa, 5 miles away, and Windfalls Boutique Hotel, 3 miles away. London City Airport (LCY), the closest at 24 miles, offers options like the 5-star London Marriott Hotel Canary Wharf, 3 miles away, and Sea Containers London, 7 miles away. Each hotel provides convenient access to their respective airports.