Families, couples and friends looking to make the most of the summer holidays don’t have to travel far to enjoy a memorable break. Visit Essex is highlighting a range of last-minute stays across the county.
Lisa Bone, Tourism Manager at Visit Essex, said: “There’s never been a better time to enjoy everything Essex has to offer. Whether you’re planning a weekend away or a short break, visitors can find so many things to see and do.”
Whether it’s a seaside escape, a countryside retreat or a family adventure, there is last-minute availability this August. Visitors can choose from hotels, holiday parks and glamping sites.
Cool cities
This summer visitors can wake up to the sound of the waves at the Camelia Hotel in Essex’s coastal city Southend before enjoying the thrill rides at Adventure Island. Take the train or stroll along the world’s longest pleasure pier and pop into the vintage tearoom, once the set of Jamie and Jimmy’s Friday Night Feast. Or just relax with an ice cream on the city’s award-winning beaches.
Wakes Hall Lodges still have vacancies in August. Stay here, just a short hop to the vibrant city of Colchester and enjoy everything the city has to offer; great restaurants, the award-winning Castle Park and the top-notch Mercury Theatre.
Rural and riverside escapes
Avoid the motorway and stay a little closer to home – visitors can enjoy tranquil waterside breaks at the pretty-as-a-picture Paper Mill Island on the River Chelmer. There are coastal adventures at Lee Wick Farm, relaxing countryside stays at Six Apples Camping and family holidays at Osea Leisure Park. Convenient overnight stays can be bagged at Holiday Inn Southend or, for a special, grown-ups only treat, Milsoms in Dedham for a boutique luxury stay.
History lovers can book a stay at Layer Marney Tower, England’s tallest Tudor gatehouse, surrounded by stunning gardens. Combine the stay with a visit to Colchester Zoo, where summer savings mean visitors can enjoy tickets from just £17 on selected dates.
For those seeking a slower pace, Chigborough Farm and Fisheries near the riverside town of Maldon offers comfortable lakeside lodges and glamping options. Discover the picturesque Blackwater Estuary by cruising on a Thames sailing barge or take a tour and stay overnight at an Essex vineyard.
Those looking to explore Epping Forest can stay at nearby Delta Hotels by Marriott Waltham Abbey. While in the area they can climb aboard the heritage Epping Ongar Railway. Families can ‘ride with their pride’ and take advantage of a ‘Lion on the Loose’ pass for just £25 per person.
Tucked away in the north Essex countryside are the beautiful Gardens of Easton Lodge where children are free with a paying adult. Little Monsters House of Fun and Mega Centre Rayleigh are offering discounted summer play sessions, meals and party packages. While adults can enjoy Nuclear High Ropes course for just £21.50. Visitors heading to Boom Battle Bar can also enjoy food and drinks promotions throughout the summer.
To discover more, go to www.visitessex.com.