While much of the southern part of Essex is highly-developed, the north and east of the county boast countryside and seascape that rival the best in England. A break in one of our holiday cottages in Essex is the perfect opportunity to enjoy all that this county has to offer.

The coastline is largely unspoilt, an intriguing combination of estuaries, saltmarshes and mudflats and a haven for a wide variety of wildlife. Yachting is a major attraction at both Brightlingsea and Burnham-on-Crouch, while there’s plenty of fun for the family at Southend (with its famous pier), Clacton and Walton-on-the-Naze – all easily reached from our holiday cottages in Essex.

Explore Constable country, centred on Dedham and the River Stour, where you’ll see scenes that inspired the famous painter’s best-loved works, virtually unchanged from Constable’s time. History also comes alive at Colchester, Britain’s oldest recorded town, noted for its Roman remains and its castle, as well as a fascinating zoo and great shopping. The pretty town of Saffron Walden is well worth a visit, as is nearby Audley End, a magnificent stately home that was once the largest house in the whole of England. Closer to London, Epping Forest is great for walking, while Waltham Abbey makes a great day trip.