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
The open-plan kitchen-diner features a large island with stylish cabinetry and modern pendant lighting. A dining table with chairs is positioned near sliding glass doors that lead to a private garden, providing a seamless indoor-outdoor transition.
Home
5 out of 5 average rating, 101 reviews

Coastal Gem

Coastal Gem is the perfect retreat for families or couples seeking a break away. Conveniently situated just 750m from the sandy beaches of Holland-on-Sea, it takes less than 10 minutes to stroll down to the seafront. There are a number of restaurants, cafes and pubs within walking distance. With a private garden and hot tub, it will be difficult not to relax. Can be booked in conjunction with our sister property, "Little Gem". Convenient location for guests attending weddings at Villiers Barn

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, 213 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.

Top 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
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 417 reviews

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

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, 146 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, 175 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

Top guest favourite
The lodge's exterior is highlighted at dusk, featuring a curved wooden structure with large windows glowing warmly. A deck with outdoor seating invites relaxation, surrounded by gravel and lush greenery, showcasing the peaceful ambiance of the countryside.
Farm stay
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 380 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 overlooks a sandy beach and the sea, featuring a small round table with two blue chairs. Glass doors open to create a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. Scenic views of the horizon and boats in the distance are visible.
Apartment
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 426 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, 247 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 shepherd's hut is showcased, featuring warm lighting that spills from its windows. A small fire pit sits in front, emitting gentle smoke. Nearby, two wooden chairs are arranged under a throw blanket, with a potted plant adding a touch of nature to the scene.
Shepherd’s hut
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 128 reviews

Shepherds Hut in Essex - Sweet Pea

You will love this romantic escape, in a luxury shepherds hut with a cosy wood burning stove, underfloor heating for when you need extra cosiness. A king size bed, kitchen and double rainforest shower. You will also find a selection of board games Outside you have your own private wood fired hot tub and BBQ with countryside views whilst you’re gazing at the stars on your star gazing bed, which also makes a superb sun bed for catching those rays.

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, 329 reviews

Luxury Yurt + Outdoor Bath | Romantic Escape

Escape to your own private luxury yurt in the Essex countryside. Designed for couples, this secluded retreat offers complete privacy, open air rolltop baths and peaceful countryside views. Unwind on your private decking, soak under the sky and switch off completely. Set within an adults only site, enjoy slow mornings, sunset drinks and cosy evenings. The perfect place to relax, reconnect and enjoy a romantic escape away from everything.

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, 571 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
A charming entrance to a dark wooden barn annexe is framed by vibrant flowers in shades of pink and purple. The stepping stones lead to a white front door, enhancing the inviting feel of the exterior. A cat can be seen resting nearby.
Cottage
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 256 reviews

Cosy self-contained barn in rural setting

Relax and enjoy your own space in this immaculate self-contained barn annexe in a rural setting. Well positioned for Stansted Airport (not on flight path) and M11. This property backs onto fields for keen walkers. Watch the sun rise with a cup of tea and watch it go down again with a glass of wine from the local Felsted vineyard.

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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