Essex

Welcome to our guide to all the things you won’t want to miss during your hot tub cottage holiday to Essex. This famous county has a wealth of things to do and places to visit and makes for an ideal location for couples and families.

Why Take Your Cottage Break in Essex

Essex is a county in the South East of England. Home to Colchester, the oldest town in the country as well as boasting the largest coastline in the UK, Essex is a beautiful place to visit.

Whether you plan a coastal holiday or countryside retreat, Essex is a lovely place to take a cottage break. Enjoy visiting the vibrant city of Chelmsford and seaside towns of Southend-On-Sea and Clacton-On-Sea whilst on holiday in the county of Essex.

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With something for all ages, Essex is a great place for a family holiday, a weekend away with friends or a romantic break.

Eating and Drinking

Cottage breaks in this area offer foodies a real treat; enjoy exploring Essex for the very best pubs, restaurants and cafes. Major towns of Colchester and Braintree, as well as the city of Chelmsford, have great nightlife offering a nice selection of cocktail bars and pubs.

You’ll also be able to find plenty of eateries throughout the county including in the Essex countryside where you can enjoy a tasty pub lunch. Towards the coast, there are cafes and fish and chip shops – perfect to fill you up after a coastal walk.

Whatever you fancy, you’ll easily find tasty food on your next cottage break in Essex.

Family Days Out

Essex has a fantastic selection of attractions, perfect for the whole family. Colchester Zoo is a fun day out with over 260 animal species set in 60 acres of parkland. Visitors can see rare and endangered species from around the world and eat in the picnic area or one of the cafes on site. The family can also pick up a souvenir from the gift shop!

Another recommended activity during family holidays is Adventure Island, a theme park in Southend-On-Sea. It is one of the best free admission fun parks in the UK which means you only have to pay for the rides you want to ride!

Adventure Island has a great selection of rides for all ages including 5 rollercoasters, waterslides, and a classic helter-skelter all with a sea view.

Holiday cottages for Couples

For couples, Essex is a popular choice for couples looking to enjoy a relaxing weekend. With so much to see and do as well as country retreats with hot tubs throughout the county, couples will be able to book a luxury break at any time of the year.

For couples who enjoy walks, Essex boasts beautiful countryside and a stunning coastline to plan long hikes, dog walks and scenic walks. And for couples who are celebrating an anniversary or special occasion, there are plenty of romantic scenic landmarks and luxury restaurants to celebrate with fine dining or afternoon tea.

Holiday Homes for Dog Lovers

With the largest coastline in the UK boasting 350 miles of glorious sea, sand and sun, Essex is a fab location for dog walkers. The county also has miles of rolling hills and peaceful countryside which makes it an ideal place to walk your furry friend.

If you’re going to plan a holiday in Essex with your dog, there are lots of parks in the countryside and on the coast including Cudmore Grove Country Park, Hylands Park and The Naze. These dog walking spots will get your dog’s tail wagging!

Top 6 Things To Do When You Rent a Cottage in Essex

Because there’s so much to experience in Essex, make sure you plan your time and make the most of your trip by visiting some of these great attractions.

#1 – Colchester Zoo

Home to over 260 species, the 60 acres of parkland is a fun day out for all ages! Visitors will be able to see lions, tigers, birds, monkeys, giraffes, lizards and many more. The zoo also has picnic areas, cafes and a gift shop.

#2 – RHS Garden Hyde Hall in Chelmsford

is a public garden boasting beautiful plants and flowers from around the world. Visitors can enjoy walking through the different gardens, scenic walks to the reservoir and bird hide, and find out more about horticulture at the learning centre. A lovely day out for everyone, this is a great activity to do when you’re next in Essex.

#3 – Southend’s Westcliff Beach

– A trip to the beach is a must when you’re in Essex. Boasting a stunning coastline, there are miles of golden sandy beach to explore. Southend’s Westcliff Beach is a lovely beach to visit at any time of the year.

#4 – Colchester Castle

Dating back to the 11th century, Colchester Castle is a Norman castle in the town centre of Colchester. It is the largest example of this style of castle in Europe and has been built on a Roman temple which has helped it stay intact.

Visitors can explore exhibits and displays inside and learn more on a guided tour which takes you into the roman vaults and onto the castle roof. There is a large park area that surrounds the castle which is a great picnic spot in the summer months.

#5 – Clacton Pier

has lots of fun activities for the whole family as well as amazing seaside views. The pier has rides, bowling, arcades, mini-golf and an aquarium as well as plenty of food outlets including fish and chip shops and ice cream vendors.

Voted Pier of the Year in 2020, this is a must-visit for anyone coming to the Essex coast.

#6 – Thorndon Country Park

If you’re looking for scenic walks, this dog-friendly country park is peaceful and beautiful. Explore ancient woodland, deer parks and scenic countryside. There is even a visitor centre, shop, café and picnic area!