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Holiday rentals in Essex

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Top-rated holiday rentals in Essex

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Guest favourite
A gently curving path leads through a grassy area surrounded by trees and fruit-bearing plants. Sunlight filters through the branches, casting soft shadows on the lawn. The scene conveys a tranquil outdoor space suitable for relaxation and exploration.
Barn in Rochford

Canewdon home with a view.

Our detached lodge is set in the grounds of our gated property overlooking the hot tub and stable yard. It has 2 bedrooms and a large lounge with 2 sets of French doors to take in the views. TV,dining table and 4 chairs and comfy sofa. Fully equipped kitchen with cooker, microwave and toaster. Gas central heating and heated towel rail in bathroom. Private parking outside lodge and free airport parking for those flying from Southend airport. Cot and high chair available. DVD players and dvds

4.95 out of 5 average rating, 439 reviews
Top guest favourite
The exterior of a converted barn is shown, featuring a rustic design with dark wooden siding and a charming red roof. A gravel driveway leads to a fenced area with plants, while a tree and shrubs decorate the surrounding landscape under a clear blue sky.
Barn in Thundridge

The Byre at Cold Christmas

Escape to the country and stay in a cosy converted barn with a log burning stove and a secluded sunny patio area with outdoor dining and barbeque. Positioned in the beautiful countryside near Ware town, Cold Christmas has an abundance of lovely walks and is conveniently situated close to Hanbury Manor and Fanhams Hall, both of which offer a variety of amenities including a golf course, health spa and fine dining. Maltons, one of the area's finest restaurants is just at the end of the lane.

4.99 out of 5 average rating, 235 reviews
Top guest favourite
Home in Aythorpe Roding

The Garden house- hot tub &sauna

Garden House is a tranquil haven nestled in rural Essex. A 5-bed holistic house where serenity meets rejuvenation. Welcome to your home away from home, where every detail is designed to nurture your mind, body, and spirit. With walks on your doorstep. 15 minutes to stansted airport and near the M11 and M25. Down a quiet country lane with a cricket pitch next door. We have 5 spacious bedrooms, 2 with en-suite, 3 showers, 4 toilets, Outdoor area with bbq, sauna, hot tub and private garden.

5.0 out of 5 average rating, 123 reviews
Guest favourite
A two-story white building features large glass panels on the front, allowing natural light to illuminate the interior. The entrance is accentuated by decorative stone columns on either side. A paved area with gravel is visible in the foreground.
Guest suite in North Benfleet

Adorable 4 bedroom annex with hot tub

Welcome to 'The Annex' a super hidden gem, tucked away in a rural location but only 11 miles to Southend seaside with 'Adventure Island', 8 miles to Leigh-on-sea and only 33 miles from London. Nestled between the A13 and A127. 'The Annex' is the perfect setting for special occasions, birthdays, families, contractors, hens, stags, holidays, treat yourself time. Take time to relax in the bubbly hot tub. It's important to look at 'other details to note' for rules on events and celebrations.

4.97 out of 5 average rating, 463 reviews
Guest favourite
An elegantly designed bedroom features a spacious super king bed adorned with soft linens and stacked towels. A freestanding bath is positioned nearby, complemented by wooden wall accents. A cozy robe hangs in the background, while soft lighting contributes to a serene atmosphere.
Farm stay in Essex

Exclusive retreat on a private lake

Enjoy a truly unique stay in this exclusive lodge. Situated on its own private lake, you will have everything you need to enjoy a blissful retreat with award winning country pubs such as The Dog & Pickle only a walk away. Please note: 1. We are strictly a minimum of two night stays. 2. We can only accept infants under 6 months old. 3. There is no swimming or paddle boarding allowed in the lake. NEW FOR 2026 - The Wellness Deck Sauna, Cold Plunge & outdoor shower, ready for use now!

4.98 out of 5 average rating, 392 reviews
Guest favourite
A comfortable outdoor seating area is surrounded by lush greenery, displaying a modern sofa set beneath the sun. Light reflects off the water in the background, where moored boats can be seen, creating a serene setting by the shoreline.
Cottage in West Mersea

Cottage on the beach

With its own beachside garden and breathtaking uninterrupted views of the wildest of Essex creeks and marshes, the cottage is only to be reached on foot atop a sea wall. The perfect retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The last in a row of westerly facing cottages, perfect to watch the evening sun go down . From the front garden or even laying in bed, watch the tide slip in and out, the fishing boats come and go and live, for a while, in a world moving at a slower pace.

4.94 out of 5 average rating, 342 reviews
Top guest favourite
A long, polished dining table is set with silver cloches and elegant glassware, positioned beneath a large window. The expansive view reveals lush vineyard rows and greenery framed by soft, natural light. Potted plants add a touch of color to the scene.
Villa in Essex

Luxury, contemporary vineyard property - 2 adults

Toppesfield Wine Centre is a contemporary ‘Scandi-style villa’ with a large open plan lounge/dining area which has a giant picture window overlooking Toppesfield Vineyard and full height glass sliding doors looking out onto a beautiful garden/ private patio with a large outside dining table and a luxurious day bed. It has a luxury bedroom with superking bed, view over the vineyard, luxury bathroom, tennis court and 4 person jacuzzi (2nd bedroom available via Airbnb 4 person listing)

4.99 out of 5 average rating, 266 reviews
Top guest favourite
A balcony view is captured through bi-fold glass doors, featuring a small round table and two folding chairs. A decorative pumpkin sits at the center, with panoramic sea views of the estuary and boats in the distance, framed by a serene sunset.
Apartment in Southend-on-Sea

Estuary Views Penthouse with Private Parking

A Beachfront Coastal Retreat with private driveway parking & situated in the sort after area Thorpe Bay. Boasting unspoilt Panoramic Sea Views. Central to Blue Flag Beaches, 2 mins from award winning restaurants, superb location for coastal walks, watching the seabirds & a short walk to the longest Pier in the world. Re-Designed with Bi-Folding Glass doors, bringing the Outside Inside. Intricately Designed embracing tiny details that define our property for a Luxury & cosy stay.

4.99 out of 5 average rating, 437 reviews
Top guest favourite
Barn in Essex

Spacious Essex Barn: Cinema, Bar & Tennis Court

Welcome to our private barn conversion, tucked away in peaceful South Essex countryside. Just 20 mins from Southend-on-Sea’s 7 miles of beaches, pier, amusements & Adventure Island, and 10 mins from Southend Airport. We are also 5 mins from Apton Hall Wedding venue. Enjoy exclusive use of the barn with a cinema room, bar/lounge with pool table, games room with table tennis & gym, plus a tennis court. 4 great pubs/restaurants within 10 mins & beautiful countryside walks nearby!

4.96 out of 5 average rating, 152 reviews
Top guest favourite
A serene outdoor space is presented, featuring two loungers on a green lawn beside a tranquil pond. Lush vegetation surrounds the water, and a stone barbecue is visible in the background, framed by a clear blue sky with scattered clouds.
Guest house in Essex

Meadow water view peaceful countryside with ducks

Private Cosy getaway in the countryside Whether you want to take advantage of the many local coastal & woodland walks or stroll to the local country pub Or just have some time to yourself & cosy up in the lodge or relax in the garden & feed our ducks who will eat out of your hand You will have the entire lodge to yourself so you will not be disturbed it has its own private entrance as outlined in green on the photos Contactless check in No smoking in the lodge No parties

4.99 out of 5 average rating, 197 reviews
Top guest favourite
A field filled with white daisies extends toward a historic windmill, with its sails visible against a bright blue sky dotted with fluffy clouds. A charming two-story house is situated nearby, surrounded by greenery.
Windmill in Aythorpe Roding

Rodings Millhouse and Windmill

As you arrive, you’ll be greeted by the charming and historic Aythorpe Roding Windmill, nestled in the peaceful Essex countryside. Set on over 2 acres of private gardens and surrounded by open fields and working farms, it offers a truly unique and tranquil escape. Whether you’re exploring the grounds or relaxing in the serene setting, it’s a place to unwind and reconnect with nature.

4.99 out of 5 average rating, 317 reviews
Top guest favourite
The exterior of the Ugley Coachhouse showcases a charming dark blue facade with a distinctive roof. A spacious patio area is furnished with comfortable seating, surrounded by greenery. Large glass doors provide access to the interior, allowing natural light to fill the space.
Holiday home in Ugley

3 Ensuite Bedrooms, Large Garden and Private Drive

Enjoy your stay in the newly converted Ugley Coachhouse. The house is on a very quiet lane and is perfect for a relaxing break in the countryside. The village of Stansted and the small town of Saffron Walden are a short drive away as is Bishop's Stortford and Stansted Airport. Perfect for day trips to Cambridge or London. Family and pet friendly.

4.98 out of 5 average rating, 189 reviews

Popular amenities for Essex holiday rentals

KitchenWifiPoolFree parking on premisesAir conditioning

Other great holiday rentals in Essex

Top guest favourite
An inviting corner of the room features large, open doors that provide access to a private balcony. Comfortable seating options, including a wooden armchair and a cushioned chair, frame the stunning views of the estuary and surrounding greenery.
Barn in West Mersea

Redwing Lodge

4.97 out of 5 average rating, 588 reviews
Top guest favourite
The charming cottage features a thatched roof and distinctive round structure, surrounded by lush greenery. A vibrant rainbow arcs above, enhancing the picturesque rural setting. The scene captures tranquil elements of nature, inviting a sense of calm and serenity.
Home in Finchingfield

The Round House

4.97 out of 5 average rating, 233 reviews
Top guest favourite
An aerial view captures the expansive gardens surrounding the farmhouse, featuring neatly trimmed hedges and shrubs in geometric formations. The lush greenery blends with the surrounding fields, extending towards the horizon. The house is visible in the distance, nestled among trees.
Home in Suffolk

Idyllic house and gardens on estuary

4.99 out of 5 average rating, 161 reviews
Top guest favourite
Home in Essex

8 bedroom Countryside Farmhouse

4.95 out of 5 average rating, 38 reviews
Top guest favourite
Home in Great Leighs

Leighs Cottage – Games Room, Garden & Log Fire

4.94 out of 5 average rating, 16 reviews
Guest favourite
Home in Hatfield Broad Oak

The Beeches - Two Bedroom Cottage With Hot Tub

4.92 out of 5 average rating, 87 reviews
Guest favourite
Home in Southend-on-Sea

Stylish 4 bed retreat with Hot Tub near London.

4.95 out of 5 average rating, 61 reviews
Top guest favourite
Home in Great Baddow East

Hot tub • Sauna• Massage chair•Tennis• Entire home

4.98 out of 5 average rating, 43 reviews

All about Essex

The misconception of Essex as a sort of eastern suburb of London — encouraged by its commuter towns and a much popularised nightlife scene — belies both its ancient history and its natural beauty. Its coastline of broad estuaries backed by thousands of acres of wildlife-rich saltmarsh measures a whopping 350 miles. The former royal hunting enclosure of Epping Forest contains more than 50,000 ancient trees.

Its gentle, green countryside is dotted with olde worlde villages, market towns, and country estates, including the imposing Audley End at Saffron Walden, and the 18th-century Hylands House near Chelmsford. Stour Valley and Dedham Vale are so picturesque they inspired some of Britain’s most beloved painters, while Colchester, once the Roman capital of Britain, can celebrate two thousand years of architecture, including a Norman castle. But yes, Essex locals are also known for their friendliness and their love of a good time. Famous seaside towns like Clacton-on-Sea and Southend, home to the world’s longest pleasure pier, offer plenty of entertainment.

What are the top things to do in Essex?

Harwich

Located on a peninsula at the mouth of the rivers Stour and Orwell, this harbour is best known for its ferries to Holland. But its old town, dating back to the 13th century, is a charming destination itself, with maritime heritage, the wooden Ha’penny Pier, and a pretty beach on Dovercourt Bay. You can also go seal spotting at the nearby Hamford water nature reserve.

Halstead

With the River Colne running prettily through its centre, this market town, full of independent shops and merchants, is a floral delight year round, from its Victorian gardens to its blooming churchyards. Drive 15 minutes in any direction and you’ll come to more attractive villages — Coggeshall, Finchingfield, Earls Colne — while the Norman keep of Hedingham Castle lies just to the north.

Blackwater Estuary

From the Dengie peninsula south of the river to Mersea Island to its north, the vast flat horizons of the Blackwater salt marshes are a place to lose yourself in nature. The estuary’s banks, lakes, and meadows are breeding grounds for wildlife while the surrounding villages, like Maldon, Burnham-on-Crouch, and Bradwell-on-Sea, retain their fishing and boat-building traditions.

Destinations to explore