Essex holiday homes

We found 4,600 holiday rentals — enter your dates for availability
Select from 374 houses, 322 apartments and other holiday rentals to find the perfect place for your stay in Essex. Whether you're travelling with your children or with friends, holiday homes have the best amenities for hanging out with the people that matter most, which might include parking and a fireplace. Whatever you're looking for, you'll find a property to rent for everyone's needs, including a place that is accessible or non-smoking.

Popular Essex destinations on Bookabach

A large brick building with arched windows and a tower.

Colchester

Colchester
Colchester

Holiday rentals with weekly discounts – Essex

Showing deals for:16 Oct - 23 Oct

Image gallery for Luxury cabin perfect for Stansted Airport and short stays in the country side

Bedroom and dining area
10 out of 10, Exceptional, (5 reviews)
Exceptional
(5 reviews)

Luxury cabin perfect for Stansted Airport and short stays in the country side

Bishop's Stortford

9% off
Price is NZ$1,941
for 7 nights, 1 cabin
NZ$277 per night
includes taxes & fees
Luxury cabin perfect for Stansted Airport and short stays in the country side

Find spaces that suit your style

Why visit Essex

  • Scenic Countryside: Enjoy picturesque landscapes and charming villages perfect for leisurely hikes and family picnics.
  • Urban Parks and Nature Reserves: Explore expansive parks and nature reserves ideal for outdoor adventures and wildlife spotting.
  • Historic Towns: Visit towns with rich cultural heritage, vibrant local markets, and impressive historic landmarks.
  • Family-Friendly Activities: Engage in a range of activities suited for all ages, from relaxed strolls to active outdoor pursuits.
  • Local Culture: Immerse in the warm local vibe and traditional experiences unique to Essex’s community spirit.

Top attractions in Essex

Essex, England, is a fantastic destination for outdoor adventures and family holidays, boasting a mix of urban parks, nature reserves, and lush forests. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich culture while exploring various attractions that cater to all ages. Whether you're hiking through scenic landscapes or enjoying a leisurely picnic in a park, Essex offers a delightful experience for those seeking a blend of nature and family-friendly activities.

  • Audley End House: A magnificent historic house steeped in cultural heritage, offering insight into Essex's rich past and elegant architecture.
  • Epping Forest: A vast, enchanting forest perfect for outdoor adventures, with scenic trails and diverse wildlife for an invigorating experience.
  • Leez Priory: A captivating historic site that provides a glimpse into Essex's storied traditions and cultural legacy.

Things to do recommended for couples

For a romantic getaway in Essex, explore the picturesque villages of Dedham and Flatford, or take a leisurely stroll along the stunning coastline at Southend-on-Sea. Enjoy a candlelit dinner at a charming pub, and don't miss the sunset views over the River Crouch.

Things to do recommended for families

Families will love exploring the fascinating Colchester Zoo, where kids can meet exotic animals, or enjoy a fun day at Adventure Island in Southend, featuring thrilling rides and attractions for all ages.

Things to do recommended for groups

Explore Essex with your mates by visiting historic local sites, sampling regional cuisine, and enjoying outdoor adventures like walking through ancient forests and sailing on the Thames. Experience local charm and create unforgettable memories on your group holiday from New Zealand.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

What do I need to keep in mind when booking a vacation in Essex

Whether you’re journeying with a group, travelling with your whanau, taking your furry mates along, or seeking extended stays, be sure to apply the appropriate filters. Here are some Vrbo booking tips for you.

  • Traveling to Essex with a group: Consider how many bedrooms you'll require, along with features like a fully equipped kitchen or an outdoor area ideal for group gatherings. Thankfully, you can filter for these and many other options on Vrbo.
  • Traveling to Essex with young kids: Traveling with little ones can be challenging. You must ensure their comfort and safety, as well as access to age-appropriate amenities, like a private swimming pool. It’s also wise to consider how close you are to attractions that are family-friendly.
  • Taking your pets with you to Essex: For many, a family getaway isn’t complete without their furry companion. If this resonates with you, explore Vrbo listings that welcome pets. Most properties that permit pets also offer feeding bowls and beds, ensuring everyone feels at home.
  • Planning for a long term stay visiting Essex: If you’re after holiday rentals that offer discounts for a month or more, you’re in the right spot. Use our filters to quickly find and save on monthly rentals, and don’t forget to include extras like a parking space, a well-equipped kitchen, or a private pool in your search.

Where to stay in Essex

Essex, England, offers a delightful mix of outdoor adventures and family-friendly experiences. Explore the picturesque Essex countryside, where scenic walks and charming villages await. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of local markets and historic landmarks in towns like Chelmsford and Colchester. Whether you're after a relaxing getaway or an exciting day out, Essex is perfect for creating memorable holiday experiences amidst friendly locals and stunning landscapes.

  • Colchester: Colchester, a historic city in Essex, is renowned as one of the oldest recorded towns in Britain. With its charming blend of modern amenities and rich history, it offers an engaging family and outdoor experience. Visitors can explore the local attractions including beautiful parks and private gardens, perfect for a leisurely stroll. The city centre features a variety of shopping centres and malls, catering to all your retail needs. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the impressive modern college university, which adds a vibrant academic atmosphere to the city.
  • Southend-on-Sea: Southend-on-Sea is a lively coastal city in Essex, famed for its entertainment and family-friendly activities. The long pebble beach is a major draw, providing a perfect spot for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying seaside amusements. The city's vibrant shopping centres and theatres offer a fantastic variety of options for a fun-filled day out. Visitors can unwind at the beach, explore the scenic dunes, or indulge in local cuisine at nearby eateries. The Southend Pier, the longest pleasure pier in the world, is also a must-visit for stunning views of the coastline.
  • Bishop's Stortford: Bishop's Stortford, located on the border of Hertfordshire and Essex, offers a delightful blend of history and modernity. This picturesque city is perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts, with an array of parks and recreational areas. The vibrant shopping area and centres provide a mix of high street brands and independent boutiques. History buffs will enjoy exploring the historic places and houses scattered throughout the city, while the charming streets are lined with delightful cafes and eateries, making it an inviting place to relax and soak in the local culture.

Booking with Vrbo is simple

Looking to save on your next adventure? Consider being flexible with your travel dates, as prices can fluctuate. Plus, extending your stay can often lead to significant savings. To discover the ideal Vrbo property that fits your budget, make use of our filters to search by price, location, and type of holiday rental. We're here to help you find the best options for your trip.

Vrbo Trips: Planning as easy as it gets

Vrbo’s innovative Trip Board provides you with a dedicated space to start new journeys, pick up where you previously left off, or manage your travel plans effortlessly. Your saved and booked properties can easily be found under Potential, Upcoming, or Current Trips. To explore the Trip Boards, visit: https://www.bookabach.co.nz/trips

**Based on Vrbo properties bookings.

Travel to friendly Essex

The area's history and museums are just some of the reasons to come on holiday to Essex. Well known for its restaurants, shopping and bars, this welcoming city won't disappoint. Many of our holiday rentals offer full kitchens, spacious living quarters and sometimes even a hot tub—perfect for a relaxing getaway.

Sightseeing in and around Essex

Are you searching for things to do while you're in the area? Venture out of your holiday home and experience everything that makes Essex a fun place to get away to. Here are some of the most popular attractions to put on your list, all within 30 miles (48.2 km) of the city centre:

  • Warren Golf Club (5.9 mi / 9.6 km)
  • Forrester Park Golf Club (10.2 mi / 16.5 km)
  • Festival Leisure Park (10.4 mi / 16.7 km)
  • Five Lakes Resort (14.6 mi / 23.5 km)
  • Bishop's Stortford Golf Club (15.4 mi / 24.8 km)
  • Adventure Island (17.4 mi / 28 km)

Exploring the beaches and other natural features in Essex

Whether you're looking for adventure or just want to spend some time taking in the scenery, Essex is a great place to get outside. Here are a few of the area's most enchanting natural features, all within 30 miles (48.2 km) of the city centre:

  • Hatfield Forest Country Park (13.4 mi / 21.6 km)
  • Marks Hall Gardens and Arboretum (14.1 mi / 22.8 km)
  • Thorney Bay Beach (16 mi / 25.8 km)
  • Chalkwell Beach (16.1 mi / 26 km)
  • Essex Wildlife Trust Thameside Nature Discovery Park (16.3 mi / 26.2 km)
  • Southern Parkland Country Park (16.4 mi / 26.3 km)

Travelling to and around Essex

The nearest airport is in London (STN-Stansted), located 14 mi (22.5 km) from the city centre. If you can't find a flight that's convenient for your trip, you might consider flying into London (SEN-Southend), which is 15.1 mi (24.3 km) away.

If you prefer to travel by train, Chelmsford Station, Wickford Hatfield Peverel Station and Ingatestone Station are the main stations that serve the city. You can see more of Essex by catching a ride on the metro at Epping Underground Station, Theydon Bois Underground Station or Debden Underground Station.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best area to stay in Essex when booking a holiday home?
One of the most in-demand areas to find an Essex holiday home is Heybridge. When you lock in your holiday home with Bookabach, you will have the whole place to yourself. That means you don't have to share it with anyone apart from your people.
What is the most popular type of holiday home accommodation in Essex?
Mobile homes are the most popular type of holiday home in Essex, according to our data. Even if you've got a different vision in mind, Bookabach has holiday homes in a variety of shapes and sizes. Take a look at our options to find your perfect pad.
How much does it cost to rent a holiday home in Essex?
A number of things influence how much you'll pay for a holiday home in Essex, including the length of stay, type of property and season. But, all of our holiday homes have something in common — exceptional value. Simply enter your travel dates to find your home away from home.
How much does it cost to rent a beach house in Essex?
Prices for beach houses in Essex can vary depending on the size and type of the property and when you're travelling. All you need to do is enter your travel dates into Bookabach and the number of guests to see your options and prices. From there you can use our filters to narrow your search results by ratings, nearby activities and more.
What are popular home amenities in Essex?
Some of the most popular home amenities people are looking for in Essex include off-street parking options, a fridge and a microwave oven. Whether you're going on holiday with family, buddies or even pets, Bookabach holiday homes come with the best amenities for hanging out with the people closest to you.
Are there large group holiday homes in Essex?
Choose from 30 holiday properties in Essex that can host a group of 10 or more guests. Whether you're organising time away with the family or a special event like a birthday party, there's ample space to get your group together under one roof.
What are the top attractions for families in Essex?
Keeping the kids happy during your Essex holiday is a snap with these fabulous family-friendly attractions:

  • Chelmsford City Racecourse
  • Hedingham Castle
  • Hylands House and Park

Can I find two-bedroom holiday homes in Essex?
Gather your besties and enjoy peace, privacy and comfort in one of the 255 two-bedroom holiday homes Essex has to offer.
Are there holiday homes with WiFi in Essex?
Whether you want to keep up with the headlines, send a few emails or surf social media, there are 183 holiday homes with WiFi in Essex. Check the "WiFi" box when searching on Bookabach and stay connected on your getaway.
How old do you have to be to rent a holiday home in Essex?
The minimum age requirements can differ across properties on Bookabach, so be sure to look at the rules of the holiday home in Essex you're interested in. But usually, it's 16, 18 or 21.
How long can I rent a holiday home in Essex for?
The amount of time you can stay in an Essex holiday home for is up to each property. Just put in your travel dates to find available options that offer long-term stays. They include the things you need to make your extended trip more enjoyable and convenient, like laundries and air conditioning. Some Bookabach holiday properties may also offer weekly or monthly discounts, so you can have a longer stay for less.

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