Living in Essex will make you understand why tourists flock all the way to your home county for a visit. As it borders London, being in Essex puts you close to the vibrant city with iconic landmarks. A staycation in Essex also allows you to reconnect with the local attractions you often frequented when you were younger. Who knows? You might even discover new spots you haven’t seen yet! Satisfy the inner history buff in you with a stroll around Colchester, a charming town that once was Roman Britain’s capital.
Essex ensures you are spoilt for choice with a plethora of accommodation choices, from cozy campsites to luxurious hotels. For a refreshing retreat, browse through this list of the best staycations in Essex, UK.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on April 24, 2025.
1. Wivenhoe House Hotel (from USD 167)
If you are looking for a staycation spot with a pet-friendly policy, look no further than this listing. Wivenhoe House Hotel welcomes your fur babies for a nominal fee and allows access to public areas, except in the brasserie restaurant. In clement mornings, you can take leisurely walks with your dogs on the well-tended grounds and parkland.
The Main House in this 18th-century hotel will transport you back in time with its maintained heritage and historic rooms. If you are not keen on rustic experiences, you can opt for the modern comfort that the contemporary rooms in the Garden Wing provide. For an extra fee, themed dinner nights and live performances can be enjoyed here, as well.
Wivenhoe House Hotel
3.61 km (2.3 mi) from Colchester Castle
2. Roslin Beach Hotel (from USD 197)
Sit back and relax where the land meets the sea. Roslin Beach Hotel is a coastal hotel lying on the shores of Thames Estuary, making it a vantage point to witness breathtaking estuary lookouts. Each accommodation in this beachfront hotel oozes a quaint blend of vintage character and present-day sophistication, luring locals who want to experience the best of both worlds.
If you need some indulging, you can spoil yourself with full-body massages and personalized body wraps in the spa. For added convenience, the hotel delivers concierge services and complimentary parking.
Roslin Beach Hotel
41.47 km (25.8 mi) from Colchester Castle
3. Lifehouse Spa And Hotel (from USD 252)
Fantastic restaurant meals with good breakfast options, although some menu items were limited
Reasonable pricing for a spa-focused hotel with a range of treatments
Great location near the coast with tranquil surroundings and wheelchair accessibility
Beautiful gardens, spacious rooms, excellent spa facilities, and friendly staff
Wellness is in the cards of this award-winning spa hotel. This adults-only property is perched atop the 12-acre (4.86-hectare) English Heritage Listed Gardens. For a relaxing retreat, make sure to get a full-on rejuvenating treatment from skilled therapists on Lifehouse Spa Day.
If you want to stay active, a Pilates studio and a well-equipped gym are at your service. After using up your strength in a sweaty workout, take some time to recover in the indoor pool or thermal spa.
Lifehouse Spa And Hotel This is a Proud Certified property where you can be extra sure of a welcoming stay.
19.06 km (11.9 mi) from Colchester Castle
4. Holiday Inn Brentwood, an IHG Hotel (from USD 212)
This casual hotel has many common spaces to let you hang out with your pals and meet new friends. The open lobby makes a perfect spot to gather with your buddies and share splendid moments or finish some of your weekly work tasks. Do not forget to grab a cup of coffee in Starbucks to improve productivity.
Another hotel highlight is the Spirit Health Club, containing an indoor pool, hot tub, steam room, and sauna. These leisure facilities are operational daily from 6:30 am to 9 pm.
Holiday Inn Brentwood by IHG
53.62 km (33.4 mi) from Colchester Castle
5. Smugglers Cove, Clacton On Sea by Marston's Inns (from USD 93)
With an inviting ambiance and friendly hospitality, this modest hotel promises guests a pleasant staycation experience. Smugglers Cove offers 38 well-appointed rooms with a luxurious Hypnos bed to sleep you comfortably at night. All rooms come equipped with a digital TV and free Wi-Fi, so you will still have something to do albeit staying indoors.
Treat yourself to delicious meals in the restaurant and sample classic cocktails in the bar. Guests can also reap the benefit of a continental breakfast for a surcharge.
The Aviator, formerly Smugglers Cove, Clacton On Sea by Marston's Inns
18.96 km (11.8 mi) from Colchester Castle
6. Kingscliff Hotel (from USD 143)
Do you fancy a coastal retreat for your next weekend escapade? Fulfill your dream staycation in this coastal hideaway. The bright rooms are bathed in sunshine with sash windows opening out to serene sea views. Calming neutral colors characterize the interiors, enhancing the room’s aesthetic and making it pleasing to the eyes.
Outside, you will find a landscaped garden dotted with dome pods where you can enjoy a la carte menus and an afternoon tea with your loved ones with the sea as a dining backdrop.
Kingscliff Hotel Holland on Sea
21.91 km (13.7 mi) from Colchester Castle
7. Camelia Hotel (from USD 129)
Camelia Hotel nestles in front of the beach, so sightings of sunsets across the sea are guaranteed. The suites feature a separate lounge area where you begin your day with a good cup of coffee. You will also appreciate the free parking if you plan to take a short drive to this staycation spot from your home.
Cap off your night by ordering a drink from the extensive wine list in the on-site bar. You can also visit the patio to cool your head while admiring the pristine sea.
Camelia Hotel
41.6 km (25.9 mi) from Colchester Castle
8. The Pier Hotel (from USD 185)
Staying at The Pier Hotel equates to having a restaurant, bar, and accommodation within your reach all at once. The Pier combines quayside charm and old-world heritage, enticing Essex residents with a penchant for quirky retreats. All 14 bedrooms are individually tailored to accommodate you in style.
With the sumptuous cuisine selection served in Milsom restaurants, you will never go hungry throughout your stay. A great spot for night entertainment, the Scandinavian-inspired bar offers drink specials and lovely views of the harbor in Harwich.
The Pier Hotel
27.07 km (16.9 mi) from Colchester Castle
9. The Saracens Head Hotel (from USD 112)
Whether you are having your staycation alone or with a pair, this historic hotel will never disappoint. It is home to many accommodation options, from single rooms to honeymoon suites.
Soak up some history in this 16th-century coaching inn that embraces 30 rooms and suites to breeze you through the classical times. Free Wi-Fi is accessible in all rooms to help you stay productive or just laze away on your bed while connecting with friends. Solo and couple workouts are also possible during long afternoons, thanks to the functional fitness center on-site.
The Saracens Head Hotel
37.18 km (23.1 mi) from Colchester Castle
10. De Rougemont Manor (from USD 128)
Good breakfast and delicious dining options, though some specific dishes could be improved.
Reasonable pricing for a historic hotel with comfortable accommodation.
Quiet, picturesque location with easy access to London and local attractions.
Great facilities including a heated outdoor pool, tennis courts, and a lovely garden.
Positioned on 10 acres (4.05 hectares) of verdant grounds, this 4-star hotel is where you can breathe fresh air without compromising modern convenience and luxury. The elegantly furnished rooms are polished to provide premium comfort while retaining the structure’s nostalgic character.
On balmy days, spend time splashing around the pool. If you wish to swim during winter, you will be glad to know that the pool is heated from mid-May to mid-September. A tennis court and table tennis are available if you want an activity requiring more energy.
De Rougemont Manor
Address: Great Warley Street
53.93 km (33.6 mi) from Colchester Castle
Delight in a staycation in Essex
Essex has no shortage of soul-nourishing activities and relaxing stays to make your quick break worthwhile. You can always plan a trip abroad once you have the time to do so. In the meantime, a staycation works well as a healthy alternative in case your time does not permit a long trip. Feel free to use this list of the best staycations in Essex, UK, to help you finalize your travel plan.
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