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 private decking area features a hot tub surrounded by greenery, inviting relaxation. Two black chairs sit beside a small table, while a white robe and yellow towels are neatly arranged for comfort. A grassed area and patio with a BBQ are visible in the background.
Bungalow
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 370 reviews

Little Gem

Little Gem really does live up to its name. Whether it’s a romantic weekend or a leisurely week by the sea, Little Gem caters for all. With a private garden, hot tub, wood burner & the beach less than a 10 minute walk away. There are a number of restaurants & pubs a few minutes walk away and an award winning fish & chip shop just down the road Dog friendly Can be booked in conjunction with our sister property, "Coastal Gem". Convenient location for guests attending weddings at Villiers Barn

Guest favourite
A shepherd's hut is positioned against a clear blue sky, featuring a sleek green exterior and large glass doors. A private wooden hot tub is nearby, accompanied by rustic firepits. A patio with several chairs extends in front, offering a view of the surrounding greenery.
Shepherd’s hut
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 253 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
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, 502 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

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
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 262 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.

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, 275 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, 156 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, 220 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)

Superhost
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, 676 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.

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, 174 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. 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!

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, 525 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!

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, 334 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 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, 221 reviews

Stunning 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 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

Your guide to Essex

Welcome to 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.


The best time to stay in a holiday rental in Essex

Summer is when the weather is at its most reliable in Essex, and a popular time to head to Essex’s coast and stay in one of the area’s holiday cottages. The seaside towns can be quiet out of season, although they rarely shut down entirely. Facing the North Sea means that it can get chilly any time of year, however, so make sure to pack accordingly and bring a waterproof jacket in case it rains. Spring and autumn are both mild and offer different but delightful experiences of the countryside, with many of the towns and stately homes in their best bloom between March and May, and Epping forest clothed in autumn colours in September and October. The event season peaks in summer with county fairs, the Estuary arts festival in May/June, and the Clacton Airshow in August, not to mention the Dunmow Flitch Trials in July, a curious 900-year-old tradition celebrating marriage with bacon.


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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