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Holiday rentals in Essex

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Top-rated holiday rentals in Essex

Guests agree: these stays are highly rated for location, cleanliness and more.

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Top guest favourite
A spacious living room is highlighted by a large picture window, showcasing views of the surrounding countryside. A comfortable sofa and leather loveseat are positioned near a wood-burning stove, accompanied by wooden furnishings and decorative plants. A chest and a television enhance the cozy ambiance.
Barn
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 131 reviews

Stunning Suffolk Barn Conversion

Slow down and relax at this romantic rural retreat on the edge of Constable country. The Hay Barn, with its wonky beams and wood-burning stove, sits peacefully among acres of rolling farmland, moments from some of Suffolk’s most iconic sights, including Sutton Hoo - featured on Netflix’s The Dig. Wake to the splashing of wild mallards on the pond, pick juicy plums from the orchard, and set off on an adventure across the fields. Perfect for walking, cycling, exploring or simply hiding away.

Top guest favourite
A charming shepherd's hut, surrounded by lush greenery, features two front doors that open to a welcoming porch area. Outdoor seating is provided on a deck, along with a wood-burning fire pit and a wood-fired hot tub nearby, all set within a serene glade.
Shepherd’s hut
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 523 reviews

Fosters meadow shepherds hut

Luxury interior with high end furnishings, exclusive use of wood fired hot tub, fire pit barbecue. Nestled in a small private glade next to a brook with views over the meadow, and countryside beyond, an abundance of wildlife all around a great place to get away from it all. Wood burning stove, kitchen, shower, toilet, comfy double bed. All wood for stoves included Also now Pizza oven, so don’t forget your pizzas 🍕 We will be on hand to greet you but if you prefer to self check in let us know

Top guest favourite
An open-plan living area is featured, with two sofas and an armchair arranged around a wooden coffee table. Natural light enters through large windows, illuminating the modern decor. A dining table is positioned beside the kitchen area, and soft rugs are placed on the tiled flooring.
Home
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 127 reviews

Stylish Pin Mill Boathouse - Stunning River Views

The Blackhouse Boatshed is a stylish new small house boasting stunning panoramic views over the boatbuilding and sailing hamlet of Pin Mill and the famous Butt and Oyster pub. Designed and built by local architects and craftspeople, the house is a perfect base for couples, close to the waterfront and in the heart of beautiful Suffolk countryside. There is a fantastic choice of walks, cycling, and horse rides, as well as opportunities to get onto or into the water or stay in and be cosy.

Guest favourite
An aerial view of a traditional Mongolian yurt situated on a spacious wooden deck. Two open-air roll-top tubs are positioned nearby, alongside a dining table and comfortable seating areas. The surrounding grass and gentle hills provide a serene countryside backdrop.
Yurt
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 287 reviews

Secluded luxury yurt getaway in rural Essex

You and a loved one+ a couple of open-air rolltop tubs + a yurt = an excellent escapade to Essex. All this is to be experienced at A Swift Escape, an adults-only site set in the far end of a paddock surrounded by fields and trees for a real private vibe. This is a getaway designed for pure serenity—don't expect a busy itinerary, just blissful relaxation. You’ll spend days taking alfresco dips and chilling out on your outdoor decking’s seating while sizzling up snacks on the gas barbecue.

Top 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
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 293 reviews

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.

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
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 172 reviews

The Round House

Come & spend some time in a unique & tranquil, 18th Century cottage. Situated on the edge of beautiful Finchingfield & surrounded by fields, The Round House is the perfect getaway for cozying up or getting out & about in the gorgeous countryside. With beams galore, a central stacked fireplace with log burner, a compact galley kitchen & dining area. Upstairs is a double bedroom & stunning bathroom. Outside the house is surrounded by garden with amazing views over stunning countryside.

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
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 233 reviews

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)

Top guest favourite
A well-appointed studio flat features a spacious bed with neutral bedding, complemented by a decorative art piece on the wall. A cozy leather sofa sits in the foreground, adorned with a throw blanket and a decorative pillow. Warm lighting enhances the inviting atmosphere.
Apartment
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 205 reviews

Self Contained Studio in Wivenhoe

Tuck away next to the Wivenhoe woods (upper Wivenhoe), this lovely self-contained studio flat provides comfortable accommodation throughout. The studio is on a cul-de-sac, with its own entrance. It is just a short walk to the University of Essex via Wivenhoe Public pathway. The the train station is also only 15 minute walk away through the Wivenhoe trail. Ideal for 1-2 guests, but a baby or small chid is welcome (providing that you bring your own travel cot & bedding with you).

Top guest favourite
A cozy sitting area is displayed, featuring a leather sofa adorned with soft throws. A rustic coffee table sits in front, while a decorative screen separates the sleeping area. Exposed wooden beams contrast with the brick wall, enhancing the room's charm and character.
Guest house
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 528 reviews

Unique Tudor Barn conversion.

Circa 1460's self contained barn conversion. Double bed. Shower room. Cosy sitting area with oil burning stove, private entrance, parking, stunning views, use of outdoor sitting area. Chelmsford 10 to 12 minute drive to city centre and railway station. Stansted 20 minute drive away, Broomfield Hospital and Farleigh Hospice 10 minute walk away. Buses to Colchester, Braintree and Chelmsford from outside front door. Chelmsford Park and Ride service is 5 minute drive.

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
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 543 reviews

Redwing Lodge

A bright, modern, completely self-contained space with outstanding views across the estuary and surrounding countryside. Now in our sixth year and encouraged by your continued rave reviews, we look forward to welcoming you to this special place. From your unique vantage point, sit comfortably and watch the tide as it wraps around the fabulous Mersea Island. Remember we truly are an island when the tide is high!

Top 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
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 356 reviews

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.

Top guest favourite
A spacious room features a king-size bed with elegant bedding, flanked by large windows allowing natural light to illuminate the area. Two cozy armchairs surround a small table, while modern lighting enhances the room's contemporary design. A decorative wall mirror adds depth to the space.
Guest house
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 105 reviews

Hilltop views - The Bailey Suite

This cosy modern guest house has been designed with luxury in mind. Set on a hilltop location with beautiful views of countryside. With access to hilltop views leisure facilities boosting a stunning heated indoor swimming pool along with a luxury sauna. We have gated access to the property offering secured parking along with a EV charger station which is available.

Popular amenities for Essex holiday rentals

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

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