Essex, a county in the East of England, has inspired generations of travellers, with its rolling countryside and beautiful coastline. With its long history, fabulous seaside holiday resorts, nature parks, ancient woodlands and stunning landscapes, it is a perfect holiday destination. Essex is great for both short breaks and longer family holidays.

Hiring a holiday home in Essex is an ideal way to explore the county. Holiday parks are popular, and the seaside resorts have long been a family favourite.

The Essex coast offers family-oriented fun at traditional seaside resorts. A holiday cottage in Southend, Finton, Walton or Dovercourt will provide access to a broad range of water sports and other family holiday activities. If you are looking for a quieter coastal holiday, the charm of Warwick and Malden are hard to beat, and a guesthouse or self-catering holiday home will be ideal. Explore the unspoilt coast, which is an area of significance for nature conservation, and be inspired by its beauty.

Inland, the wheat fields and woodlands of Essex offer opportunities to stay in traditional thatched cottages or timber framed farm houses. The windmills dotting the landscape create a magical atmosphere. Sustainable tourism in Essex is increasingly popular, and a holiday cottage in Essex will allow you to experience this first hand through walking, cycling or horse trails.

Perhaps you’d prefer your Essex holiday to allow you to explore some of England’s rich history. Visit the medieval towns of Saffron Walden, Coggeshall or Thaxted. Or visit a Norman castle at Colchester, Hedingham and Stanstead. The castle at Mountfitchet will allow you to experience life in a Norman village of 1066.

For wildlife enthusiasts, or for those looking to escape to nature, there are a number of beautiful nature parks, holiday parks and gardens, with the nature reserves at Rainham Marshes a particular attraction.

Essex is also increasingly popular as a wedding destination. Have your civil wedding ceremony in a castle, before retreating to a romantic country cottage for a quiet honeymoon.

Self-catering cottages, guesthouses, farm stays, and seaside holiday homes are all available in Essex. Make it a holiday to remember!