Essex

Things to do in Essex

Essex is a vibrant and diverse county in the East of England, boasting a mix of lively seaside resorts, historic market towns, and picturesque rolling countryside. A must-visit is Adventure Island in Southend-on-Sea, a world-class free-admission theme park offering a huge variety of rides and attractions right on the famous seafront. Just nearby, Colchester Zoo is packed with standout features, from its interactive animal encounters and huge enclosures to its dedicated conservation work. Across the county, you can explore the historic streets of Colchester—the UK’s oldest recorded town—visit the majestic Audley End House, or enjoy a walk through the ancient Epping Forest, making Essex ideal for a fun-filled family day out or a relaxed weekend break.  

Essex Hotels and Accommodation

Essex offers a fantastic selection of accommodation for families, couples, and short-break visitors, ranging from coastal holiday parks to stylish city hotels. Haven has a great range of parks along the Essex coast, such as The Orchards or Highfield Grange, ideal for those wanting a traditional seaside base with plenty of facilities. For those seeking a characterful self-catering stay, Sykes Holiday Cottages and Rural Retreats provide beautiful options in the heart of the countryside or near the coast. If you are looking for a convenient and affordable town-centre base, Travelodge has numerous locations across the county. Visitors can also find a wide variety of hotels and guesthouses throughout the region using Booking.com, making it easy to compare prices and locations to suit every budget.