Sometimes you want an answer right away. While we love to hear from you, and we’re happy to answer any of your questions, we’ve compiled a list of our most frequently asked questions, so you can get your answer sooner rather than later!

Is Essex a good place for a holiday?

Yes! With so many things to see and do in Essex, from historical attractions to great family activities, as well as fantastic accommodation options, Essex makes a great holiday for all.

What are the top attractions in Essex?

There’s an abundance of things to do in Essex, from museums and heritage attractions to theme parks and animal encounters, such as the famous Colchester Zoo. There’s also the longest pier in the world at Southend-on-Sea.

What are some hidden gems in Essex that most tourists don't know about?

Essex is home to many vineyards, many of which you can visit for tours and wine tastings. You can check out vineyards in Essex on our website. As well as vineyards, Essex is rich in history and heritage, with many great attractions such as museums and historical sites to visit.

Is Essex a good destination for families?

There are many family friendly attractions, restaurants, and places to stay in Essex. There’s something for all ages, making it an ideal destination for family days out or staycations in the UK. Take a look at our family friendly attractions here.

What are the best times of year to visit Essex?

Being one of the warmest and driest places in England, Essex during the summertime can often feel like you’ve gone abroad. Our coastal destinations are particularly great for a summer staycation in the UK.

What is the budget range for a weekend trip to Essex?

A weekend trip to Essex is possible on a wide range of budgets. If you’re looking for a more high-end stay, we have wonderful spa hotels such as the Talbooth or Stoke-by-Nayland Resort. For more budget friendly options, we have many camping sites and hotels on the cheaper site. Check out our blog on Top 10 Things to do on a Budget.

What is the best way to travel to Essex from London?

You can easily get to Essex from London by train, or by car, and travel from London can take just 35 minutes. Greater Anglia provide a quick and frequent train service into Essex from London Liverpool Street. We have great access on the roads from all over the country – the A13 is the best way to come into Essex from central London by car.

How long does it take to get to Essex from other major cities in the UK?

The M11 is a direct route into Essex if you are travelling from Cambridge and takes around an hour and a half. If you are travelling down from Manchester to Essex, it takes just around 4 hours in the car via the M1 and M6, or there is the option to travel via train and public transport or fly in from Manchester Airport to Stansted. To travel from Birmingham to Essex, you can drive via the M1, and it will take just under 3 hours. Driving from Bristol to Essex via the M4 and M25 is an estimated 3-hour drive. You can travel from Leeds to Essex by car for around 4 hours via the M1.

Is there an airport in Essex?

There are two airports in Essex – Southend Airport and Stansted airport. Learn more about these here.

Do I need to book a car if I'm visiting Essex?

If you are planning on visiting multiple towns, cities, and villages when you are in Essex, hiring a car could be useful for getting around. We do have great train services and public transport links, but driving through the countryside and along the coast is a great way to really make the most of your visit and gives you more freedom for where you go and when.

What are the parking options in popular Essex towns and villages?

Car parks in Essex towns and villages are run by both private operators and borough, city and district councils. There are three park & ride sites in Essex – two in Chelmsford, and one in Colchester. You can learn more about parking in Essex here.

Is public transportation readily available in Essex?

Yes, public transport in Essex is readily available and easy to use to get around the county. We have great bus services provided by companies such as First and Hedingham & Chambers. For more info on public transport options, check out TravelEssex.

Can I buy a travel card for buses and trains in Essex?

Yes! PlusBus is a travel card that you can purchase along with your train ticket at any National Rail station ticket office, or when purchasing your ticket online. The Colchester Borough Card allows unlimited travel in and around Colchester via bus with services providers such as First and Hedingham & Chambers.

How safe is cycling in Essex?

It is safe to cycle around Essex, with the more urban areas have cycle lanes on the roads and pavements. Rural areas of Essex have many great cycle routes for long rides through the countryside.

Are there any taxi services available in smaller towns and villages in Essex?

Taxi services are available across Essex – simply look up taxi services in your area or check out TripAdvisor for the best rated services in Essex. HappiCabs provide taxi services in Chelmsford, Maldon, South Woodham Ferrers, Witham, and Braintree. Uber is available in a few locations in Essex, such as Brentwood and Southend-on-Sea.

What are the best apps for navigating around Essex?

We recommend downloading the TravelEssex app, which is a great guide for navigating Essex via bus links, trains, cycling, and walking.

Do you offer downloadable maps and guides of Essex towns and villages?

We have a great selection of maps and guides of Essex to help you plan your day trip or staycation here.

Where can I find walking and cycling guides for Essex?

Check out our walking routes here, and cycling routes here, for your next visit to Essex.

Do you have any recommended itineraries for day trips or weekend breaks in Essex?

For a huge range of itineraries for both day trips and staycations in Essex, check out our itineraries page. You can also build your own itinerary here on our website.

What are the best places to eat in Essex?

There’s a huge range of restaurants and cafes in Essex to choose from, with a variety of different price points. Choose from a seafood restaurant serving locally sourced Mersea Oysters, a traditional pub lunch, or a delicious afternoon tea.

Where can I find unique souvenirs and local crafts in Essex?

Essex is full of many wonderful independent shops that line our beautiful highstreets. We also recommend checking out some of the markets that are held regularly across the county – find a market near you here.

What are some dog-friendly attractions and activities in Essex?

Essex is full of beautiful coastal and countryside walks for you and your four-legged friend to enjoy. As well as some great dog walks, Essex is home to a number of dog friendly restaurants, hotels, and attractions. You can learn more over on our blog here.

What are some family-friendly activities in Essex?

There are some great family-friendly activities in Essex such as Adventure Island theme park in Southend, Colchester Zoo, and RHS Garden Hyde Hall. Check out more family-friendly activities here.

What events will be happening while I’m in Essex?

You can check out events taking place during your visit over on our What’s On page – everything from live shows to festivals and more!

What are the opening hours and admission fees for popular attractions in Essex?

All the information for attractions will be on their product pages – for further information, click through to their website or use the contact details listed on their page.