Where to hire a car in Essex
- Basildon – in the south of Essex, you can visit Festival Wakeboard and Aqua Park (SS14 3DG), Barleylands Farm Park (CM11 2UD) and nearby Canvey Island.
- Chelmsford – here you can explore Hylands House (CM2 8WQ), a neoclassical Grade II-listed villa, surrounded by historic parkland.
- Stansted Airport – situated in the heart of the county, this airport is just off the M11, so you can easily head north towards Cambridge or south to London, as well discover central Essex.
Best things to see and do in Essex
Southend Pier
Western Esplanade, Southend-on-Sea SS1 2EE
It’s impossible to miss the longest pleasure pier in the world at Southend-on-Sea. It stretches for over a mile into the Thames Estuary and is the coastal town’s most famous landmark. Take a stroll or board the Southend Pier Railway trail to enjoy spectacular sea views and visit the pier museum and cafe.
Walton-on-the-Naze Beach
43 The Parade, Walton on the Naze CO14 8AS
Essex has 350 miles of coastline and plenty of pretty seaside towns and beaches to choose from. Among its best is Walton-on-Naze, home to the second longest pier in the UK. At high tide, Second World War pillboxes can be seen in the water off this sandy beach. Head up the Naze Tower for panoramic views of the coastline – on a clear day, you can see for up to 30 miles.
Wallasea Island
RSPB Wallasea Island, Creeksea Ferry Rd, Rochford SS4 2HD
Saltmarshes, lagoons and mudflats make up this recreation of ancient wetland, which was formed with conservation in mind. You’ll see a variety of birds here, including brent goose, black-tailed godwit and spoonbill, as well as common seals. There are several walking trails to follow, such as Allfleets Marsh Trail and Marsh Flats Trail.
Best places to stay in Essex
The Old Oak at Coleman’s Farm
Coleman's Farm, Dairy Cottage, Toot Hill Rd, Ongar CM5 9QN
You’ll find a variety of quirky accommodation at this farm, perfect for a countryside retreat, including a treehouse built into an oak tree, with branches covered in weaving fairy lights. Enjoy the view through the large window as you soak in the tub or head out to the balcony and unwind in the hammocks.
Water Lily Lodge
Colchester Road, White Colne, Colchester, Essex, CO6 2PP
Tucked away in the Colne Valley countryside is this idyllic lodge, perched above the water and surrounded by lush woodland. Soak in views of the lake as you slip into the warm hot tub on the private deck or head to nearby Colchester to explore the country’s oldest recorded town – dating back to AD77.
Unplugged Rest
Rockells Farm, Duddenhoe End, Saffron Walden, Essex, CB11 4UY
If you fancy heading off-grid for a true digital detox, this could be the place for you. Your phone will be locked away on arrival and, in its place, you’ll be given a map and polaroid camera, so you can really experience the countryside to its fullest – without any distractions.