Holiday rentals in Essex

Find and book unique accommodation on Airbnb

Top-rated holiday rentals in Essex

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

1 of 1 pages1 / 1
Top guest favourite
Cabin
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 129 reviews

Secret Hideout Jacuzzi•Valley Views•Firepit•bbq

Tucked away in nature, The Hideout Retreat is a peaceful, spiritual escape where you can reconnect, breathe deeply, and truly unwind in nature. Wake to panoramic valley views, let silence ground you, and end the night watching the stars in complete tranquillity. A secret refuge for rest, clarity, and calm. • Stunning valley views • Outdoor jacuzzi + sunset soaks • Fire pit for cosy nights • BBQ for outdoor dining • Morning coffee on the deck Enjoy the perfect stay in nature and true peace.

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
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 218 reviews

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.

Guest favourite
A shepherd's hut is viewed from the grassy area, showcasing a private terrace with a hot tub. Adjacent seating arrangements and a firepit create an inviting outdoor space. The backdrop features a clear blue sky and open fields, enhancing the sense of privacy.
Shepherd’s hut
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 248 reviews

Stunning Lakeside Shepherd's Hut - Hot Tub & Sauna

A stunning shepherd's hut in a beautiful lakeside location. Set at the back of a working farm & equestrian centre the hut is well-appointed with modern decor. Visitors will have the use of the hut, stunning firepit & BBQ. A beautiful private wood-fired hot tub is attached for your exclusive use. There is also a sauna a few steps away. The lake is well fenced, secure & very private. Visitors are welcome to fish in the very well-stocked specimen Carp lake, with multiple fish approaching 40lb.

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
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 152 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.

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
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 182 reviews

Meadow view peaceful countryside lodge with ducks

Private Cosy getaway in the English 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 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 Maldon high street is a 10 min drive

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
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 447 reviews

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.

Top guest favourite
A luxury shepherd's hut is illuminated with warm lights, nestled among greenery. Smoke from a fire pit gently rises into the evening air. Nearby, a cozy blanket drapes over a wooden chair, providing a hint of comfort in the serene outdoor setting.
Shepherd’s hut
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 242 reviews

Shepherds Hut in Essex - Pea Pod

You will love this romantic escape in a luxury shepherds hut. With a cosy wood burning stove and underfloor heating for when you need extra cosiness, a king size bed, kitchen and double rainforest shower. Luxury Bramley toiletries are provided. We also have a selection of board games. Outside you have your own private wood fired hot tub and BBQ with countryside views while at night you can gaze up at the stars on your star gazing bed, which also makes a superb sunbed during the day!

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, 386 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. NEW FOR 2026 - The Wellness Deck Sauna, Cold Plunge & outdoor shower, ready for use now!

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
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 430 reviews

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.

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, 253 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)

Guest favourite
The room features a spacious bed with a textured blanket, complemented by a freestanding bath. Natural light fills the space through large doors. A small dressing table and sink area enhance functionality, while ceramic tiles and wood flooring add warmth to the overall decor.
Guest house
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 733 reviews

Boutique countryside cabin

Boutique cabin in countryside setting in the beautiful peaceful village of Little Baddow, a picturesque village in Essex. 10 minutes by car from the city of Chelmsford and 15 minutes from coastal town of Maldon. The village itself has 2 pubs and lots of walking routes nearby. Paper Mill Lock is a pleasant 30 min walk and has water sport facilities and tea room. Footpath maps available. Travel cot or single fold out guest bed avail on request, no additional cost.

Guest favourite
A modern one-bedroom house is nestled among greenery, featuring a well-maintained exterior with a sloped roof and large glass doors. Flanking the entrance, flowering plants add splashes of color, while a pebbled pathway leads to the home, enhancing the peaceful garden atmosphere.
Home
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 98 reviews

The Beeches - One Bedroom Cottage With Hot Tub

Brand new one-bedroom house in a peaceful countryside setting. Enjoy a private garden oasis with lawn, patio, outdoor dining area, and luxury hot tub. Inside includes a fully equipped kitchen, bathroom with shower, WiFi, and Smart TV. Located in CM22 7JX, just a short drive from the charming market towns of Great Dunmow and Bishop’s Stortford. Ideal for a quiet, comfortable stay with easy access to local pubs, restaurants and scenic walking routes.

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

  1. Airbnb
  2. United Kingdom
  3. England
  4. Essex