Holiday Stays in Essex

To discover this sunny (and that's official) corner of south-east England, rent an Essex holiday cottage to see this land, bounded by the North Sea and Thames Estuary. Essex shares its ancient Anglo-Saxon origins between ancient woodlands, pastoral farmlands and busy estuaries. From the decorative Byzantine frescoes of Copford Church and Layer Marney Tower, which has the tallest Tudor gatehouse in England, Colchester, the earliest Roman settlement in Britain, to the busy port of Harwich, gateway to Europe, and Stansted airport, Essex has seen it all. Forest walks, rides and glades for picnics, and a lake are all to be enjoyed in Hatfield Forest. Visit Audley End House and admire the Adam-design Tea House Bridge and Finchingfield, an authentic chocolate-box village - so don't forget your camera. Real history can still be seen at the medieval bridge in Pleshey, a village which existed long before the Normans arrived. Want to stay on an Island in Essex? Click here to view holidays on Osea Island on My Favourite Holiday Cottages.

  • Sleeps 8
  • Bedrooms 3

Discover the secluded luxury of Chapel House One, an Essex holiday cottage on Osea Island, surrounded by the Blackwater Estuary. Revel in the exclusive tidal island, a 90-minute escape from London, with private beaches, an outdoor pool, tennis court, cinema room, games room, and more. This dog-friendly waterside cottage offers flexible accommodation, ideal for family get-togethers—Book Chapel House One for a unique, beautiful getaway with stylish living areas and mezzanine space. Explore the island, visit The Puffin Pub, and enjoy EV charging facilities.

  • Active Holidays
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  • Coastal Cottages
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  • Fishing Holidays
  • Large Holiday Cottages
  • Short Breaks
  • Walking Holidays
  • Waterside Cottages
An L-shaped, wood-panelled Essex holiday bungalow with a wooden deck containing a table and sunlounger, all overlooking a large lawn.
  • Sleeps 5
  • Bedrooms 2

East Village No.2 is a luxurious coastal retreat located on Osea Island in Essex. This ground-floor gem is perfect for families or groups, featuring an open-plan living area that is ideal for gatherings. With two stylish bedrooms, each with its own bathroom, it can accommodate up to 5 guests. The garden is a lovely spot to enjoy, complete with a fire pit and BBQ. Osea Island offers a private beach, outdoor pool, cinema, and more, making it a unique getaway. East Village No.2 is the perfect escape for celebrations or a family break.

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  • Sleeps 4
  • Bedrooms 2

One Manor Beach Cottage is a picturesque, four-bedroom Essex holiday cottage on Osea Island. Nestled by the shingle beach, this spacious coastal retreat provides tranquil, family-friendly accommodations. Unwind in the cosy living spaces with an original wood-burning stove. The cottage is just steps from the water's edge, offering splendid sea views. Enjoy communal facilities, such as an outdoor swimming pool, tennis court, cinema room, games room, and more—a remarkable place for special celebrations or family vacations.

  • Active Holidays
  • Child-Friendly Cottages
  • Coastal Cottages
  • Cottages With Games Rooms
  • Countryside Cottages
  • Cycling Holidays
  • Dog-Friendly Holiday Cottages
  • Fishing Holidays
  • Luxury Holiday Cottages
  • Romantic Cottages
  • Short Breaks
  • Small Cottages
  • Waterside Cottages
A two-storey Essex holiday cottage overlooking a lawn with a parasol on Osea Island
  • Sleeps 10
  • Bedrooms 5

Garden House is a warm and inviting Essex holiday cottage on Osea Island located near the waterfront, boasting a charming and cosy atmosphere. The interior is tastefully decorated, radiating comfort and sophistication, making it an excellent choice for a luxurious holiday retreat. This holiday home is situated in the central village area of the island, providing convenient access to all the island's attractions while also offering a private and secluded refuge.

  • Active Holidays
  • Child-Friendly Cottages
  • Coastal Cottages
  • Countryside Cottages
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  • Holiday Cottages With a Pool
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  • Short Breaks
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  • Waterside Cottages
A grand Victorian Manor House with two turreted wings overlooks a large lawn.
  • Sleeps 20
  • Bedrooms 10

Manor House, located on Osea Island, offers a remarkable escape. Accessible via a Roman tidal causeway, this exclusive Essex holiday cottage is an extraordinary retreat. Explore a range of activities, including an outdoor pool, saltwater lido, tennis court, cinema, and 4.5 miles of coastline. The grand Edwardian house boasts ten bedrooms, most with four-poster beds and en-suite bathrooms. It's an ideal celebration venue, with reception rooms, a country kitchen, and captivating water views. Book this extraordinary destination for a minimum of 2 nights, with flexible arrival days.

  • Active Holidays
  • Child-Friendly Cottages
  • Coastal Cottages
  • Cottages With Games Rooms
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  • Cycling Holidays
  • Dog-Friendly Holiday Cottages
  • Fishing Holidays
  • Holiday Cottages With a Pool
  • Large Holiday Cottages
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  • Short Breaks
  • Waterside Cottages
A wooden 2-storey Essex holiday cottage overlooks a lawned garden, shaded by tall trees with four sun loungers on the grass.
  • Sleeps 5
  • Bedrooms 3

"The Limes" is a charming Island holiday cottage located on private Osea Island on the enchanting Essex Coast. It is perfect for a cosy and inviting escape for up to five guests. The cottage features a warm lounge with garden access, two spacious double rooms, and an additional single room. It also boasts a well-equipped kitchen, two elegant bathrooms with roll-top baths, and a private garden. Osea Island is a private island that offers a lot of attractions, including a private beach, saltwater lido, outdoor pool, cinema room, games room, gym, and 4.5 miles of coastline to explore with bikes. If you're looking for a tranquil getaway, "The Limes" is the perfect place to discover and plan your next seaside escapade.

  • Active Holidays
  • Child-Friendly Cottages
  • Coastal Cottages
  • Cottages With Games Rooms
  • Cottages with Hot Tubs
  • Countryside Cottages
  • Cycling Holidays
  • Dog-Friendly Holiday Cottages
  • Fishing Holidays
  • Holiday Cottages With a Pool
  • Luxury Holiday Cottages
  • Short Breaks
  • Small Cottages
  • Waterside Cottages
Gable end of a 3-storey period house with 2st floor balcony flanked by mature treees
  • Sleeps 4
  • Bedrooms 2

The Observatory is a delightful holiday cottage located in Essex on Osea Island. It offers a serene escape for those seeking a peaceful getaway. To access the private island, guests can cross over a tidal causeway. Once there, they can enjoy exclusive access to a private beach, a saltwater lido, an outdoor heated swimming pool, and other amenities. The cottage features a comfortable lounge, a well-equipped kitchen diner, and a private balcony with outstanding views of the island. Two stylish bedrooms ensure guests have a restful stay. Its remarkable location makes it an ideal spot for special celebrations or family holidays.

 

 

  • Active Holidays
  • Child-Friendly Cottages
  • Coastal Cottages
  • Cottages With Games Rooms
  • Countryside Cottages
  • Cycling Holidays
  • Fishing Holidays
  • Holiday Cottages With a Pool
  • Luxury Holiday Cottages
  • Short Breaks
  • Small Cottages
  • Walking Holidays
  • Waterside Cottages
Gable end of an Essex holiday apartment with large balcony and flanked by horse chestnut trees.
  • Sleeps 5
  • Bedrooms 2

Looking for a luxurious and relaxing getaway? Look no further than The Penthouse, a stunning Essex holiday cottage located on the peaceful Osea Island. This centrally located retreat offers easy access to a private beach, a saltwater lido, and a heated outdoor swimming pool. With a spacious lounge, a well-equipped kitchen, and two comfortable bedrooms, you'll have everything you need to unwind and enjoy your stay. Plus, the master bedroom boasts an en suite with a roll-top bath for the ultimate indulgence. Communal amenities such as a cinema room, gym, and games room are also available for your enjoyment. Whether you're planning a special celebration or a family getaway, The Penthouse is the perfect choice. Don't miss out - discover more about this exquisite island escape today!

  • Active Holidays
  • Child-Friendly Cottages
  • Coastal Cottages
  • Cottages with Hot Tubs
  • Countryside Cottages
  • Cycling Holidays
  • Fishing Holidays
  • Holiday Cottages With a Pool
  • Luxury Holiday Cottages
  • Short Breaks
  • Small Cottages
  • Waterside Cottages
On the edge of a mature wood, a timber-frame lodge with a spacious deck overlooks an open field.
  • Sleeps 2
  • Bedrooms 1

Brook Lodge is a charming and romantic cottage on 500 acres of Wakes Hall Farm in Essex. This pet-friendly, comfortable cottage with a hot tub for couples is located by a small lake amidst beautiful woodland and tranquillity. The cottage is eco-friendly and sophisticated. It features an enclosed garden and deck to enjoy the stunning rural views. 

  • Active Holidays
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  • Short Breaks
  • Small Cottages
  • Walking Holidays
  • Waterside Cottages
A flat tree-covered Islandreflected in a calm sea at sunset.
  • Sleeps 8
  • Bedrooms 4

Chapel House Two, a luxurious Essex holiday cottage on Osea Island, offers access to a private beach, a saltwater lido, and an outdoor heated pool. This charming waterside cottage with elegant decor features a cosy lounge, a well-equipped kitchen, and a mezzanine area with a sofa bed. Enjoy ample outdoor seating, a barbecue, and a fire pit. Explore the island's communal facilities, including a tennis court, a cinema room, and a seasonal island pub—an ideal escape for families and special celebrations, just 90 minutes (but light-years away) from London.

  • Active Holidays
  • Child-Friendly Cottages
  • Coastal Cottages
  • Countryside Cottages
  • Cycling Holidays
  • Dog-Friendly Holiday Cottages
  • Fishing Holidays
  • Holiday Cottages With a Pool
  • Large Holiday Cottages
  • Luxury Holiday Cottages
  • Short Breaks
  • Waterside Cottages
A single-storey holiday cottage on Osea Island overlooks a large lawn.
  • Sleeps 4
  • Bedrooms 2

scape to the beautiful Osea Island in Essex and stay at East Village No.3, a charming private holiday cottage. This island offers a unique experience that is accessible via a tidal causeway. You can enjoy a private beach, a saltwater lido, a heated pool, a tennis court, a cinema, a games room, and a gym. No.3 is located in The Village, which provides easy access to the pool. Inside the cottage, you can expect stylish bedrooms and open-plan living areas. Immerse yourself in island life, which is perfect for special occasions or family holidays. Please note that the minimum booking is for two nights.

  • Active Holidays
  • Child-Friendly Cottages
  • Coastal Cottages
  • Cottages With Games Rooms
  • Countryside Cottages
  • Cycling Holidays
  • Dog-Friendly Holiday Cottages
  • Fishing Holidays
  • Holiday Cottages With a Pool
  • Luxury Holiday Cottages
  • Remote Cottages
  • Short Breaks
  • Small Cottages
  • Waterside Cottages
A modern single storey lodge stands in front of trees overlooking a hedge-lined field.
  • Sleeps 4
  • Bedrooms 2

This delightful lodge on Wakes Hall Farm is a haven of peace on 500 acres of private land. Recently awarded a five-star AA rating, it features an open-plan kitchen/dining/sitting area, a verandah, and a hot tub. The historic town of Colchester is 40 minutes away.

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Large holiday bungalow on Ocea Island with picnic tables. Sleeps 8. Pets welcome.
  • Sleeps 8
  • Bedrooms 4

One Manor Beach Cottage on Osea Island is a luxurious Essex holiday cottage by the shingle beach, just 90 minutes from London. This remarkable coastal retreat offers private beaches, an outdoor pool, a saltwater lido, a cinema room, a games room, and more. The spacious cottage features four stylish bedrooms, two bathrooms with rolltop baths, and a well-equipped kitchen. Enjoy sea views and a private garden. Ideal for special celebrations and family holidays, it's pet-friendly, offers short breaks, and welcomes two dogs.

  • Active Holidays
  • Child-Friendly Cottages
  • Coastal Cottages
  • Cottages With Games Rooms
  • Countryside Cottages
  • Cycling Holidays
  • Dog-Friendly Holiday Cottages
  • Fishing Holidays
  • Holiday Cottages With a Pool
  • Large Holiday Cottages
  • Luxury Holiday Cottages
  • Short Breaks
  • Waterside Cottages
Semi-detached holiday cottages on Osea Island with dormer windows in the roof and French windows, overlooking a large lawn
  • Sleeps 6
  • Bedrooms 3

Orange Blossom is a tranquil duplex apartment at the heart of Osea Island. With beaches, coastal trails, and activities a short walk away, this idyllic property offers a stylish, bohemian retreat for couples, families, or friends. It boasts three bedrooms, a charming garden, and shared access to Osea Island's wealth of facilities, including an outdoor pool, cinema room, games room, gym, and more. Enjoy the serene surroundings, complimentary Wi-Fi, and the seasonal charms of The Shack and The Puffin Pub.

  • Active Holidays
  • Child-Friendly Cottages
  • Coastal Cottages
  • Cottages With Games Rooms
  • Countryside Cottages
  • Cycling Holidays
  • Dog-Friendly Holiday Cottages
  • Fishing Holidays
  • Luxury Holiday Cottages
  • Short Breaks
  • Waterside Cottages

Why Stay in a Holiday Cottage in Essex?

  • While known by many outside of the County as the bustling area with wild nightlife and extravagant characters due to certain popular TV shows, Essex itself is a beautiful place steeped in culture and fascinating history.
  • Essex offers its visitors more than 350 miles of coastline, ancient market towns, traditional villages and tiny hamlets nestled within the County’s rolling countryside hills. There are many delightful holiday stays along the coast and further inland from which visitors will find plenty to see and do during a holiday in this fine and sunny County in the South East of England.
  • Essex is also known as the ‘sunshine county’, with the Victorian village of St Osyth being recorded as the driest place in the UK.
  • Essex is one of those England counties all too often overlooked by visitors – and that’s their loss. Essex is fascinating for its culture, historical sites, shoreline, and seaside resorts.
  • There are opportunities for an active holiday with cycle trails, a white water centre near by and plenty to explore on foot.

 

What Can You Do or Visit When Staying in a Holiday Home in Essex?

  • There are many attractive landmarks to discover in the area. Southend-on-Sea is a great place to start, with its Pier, the longest in the world – you’ll need to take the train to get to the end! Essex also has some beautiful castles, including Colchester Castle, the largest Norman Keep in Europe.
  • There’s an abundance of activities to get involved in during your cottage holiday in Essex. The Lee Valley White Water Centre offers one of the best places to experience white water rafting and is used by some of the Olympic kayaking team.
  • Its excellent location links to Europe’s most desirable locations, such as the City of London and Cambridge.
  • Great Notley Country Park has bike trails with links to over 15 miles of off-road walking and cycling routes. The park also has bike hire, so you don’t need to worry about bringing yours along with you.
  • Being in a great position in the UK, Essex is home to some of the biggest festivals and events that run throughout the year. V Festival, hosted in Chelmsford, attracts over 180,000 each year, and with household names, it is widely regarded as one of the biggest music festivals in the UK. There are many more festivals, including Chelmsford Blues Festival, Leigh Folk Festival and Colchester Food and Drink Festival - all of which will ensure a stay in an Essex holiday cottage will be anything but dull.
  • The town of Colchester itself is known to be the oldest in Britain. Still, it also has some outstanding contemporary buildings, such as ‘Firstsite’, a contemporary visual arts building with lots of exhibitions, a café and a local arts & crafts shop. Even if contemporary art isn’t your thing, the building is worth visiting due to its fascinating and modern architecture that juxtaposes nicely with the nearby Victorian buildings.
  • For some retail therapy, head to High Chelmer Shopping Centre in Chelmsford. It’s regarded as one of the biggest shopping centres in Essex, with over 80 stores, and one of the prettiest too, with the River Can flowing peacefully alongside it and a large open park nearby.
  • If you’re looking for something completely different, why not hop on the ferry at Harwich to spend a night or two in Germany and the Netherlands?