Take the pressure off over Christmas and New Year and the period in between with Hannah’s selection of enticing hotels, B&Bs, even a bungalow just 400 metres from the beach – all ideal Essex locations just waiting to welcome you.
The Cart Lodge at Lee Wick Farm Cottages in St Osyth makes the perfect base for your Twixmas get togethers - just a short drive away from the Roman city of Colchester, or the sandy beaches of Clacton-on-Sea. Situated on a quiet lane, the building dates from the 20th century and have been tastefully converted. Sleeping up to 12 people there’s plenty of space for your family and friends… including your four-legged companion. leewickfarm.co.uk/
Why not get together under one roof at the stylish Apple Tree Lodges, set within rolling countryside and located on the edge of the Stoke by Nayland Resort. The lodges offer the ultimate idyllic, self-catering accommodation for couples or large groups, with access to luxury facilities and local attractions that will give you the freedom to choose how you spend your Twixmas break. stokebynayland.com/
Celebrate amongst the vines! The Great Lodge Barns in Braintree are a courtyard of old timbered barns. The Cart Lodge is popular choice for groups of friends with three double rooms, two with direct access to a shared kitchen. Families love The Stables with a large bedroom with twin beds and a set of bunk beds. Not to mention the adjoining Bardfield Vineyard, offering award-winning wines! greatlodge.co.uk/
Make it a Twixmas to remember at the ‘best boutique stay’ in Essex! Essex Stays at The Kings Head, in Great Baddow, Chelmsford, is a firm favourite with family and friends who are looking for a standout venue oozing with charm. With exclusive access during your stay, this family run venue sleeps 14 – 22 people and features a karaoke and disco room, private cocktail bar, outdoor hot tub and dining igloo! essexstays.com
A home from home
Unwind after the Christmas chaos at Wakes Hall Lodges, set within the tranquil beauty of the Colne Valley. Check in to your own self-catered luxury holiday lodge with hot tub, surrounded by 500 acres of countryside. It’s the perfect place for a couple or family to spend some quality time together during the festive season. wakeslodges.co.uk/
The Great Sampford B&B is idyllic for a few quiet romantic nights away. Situated nearby the famous Turpin Trail, enjoy a lovely breakfast before wrapping up warm and heading out for a long stroll. The B&B is easy to reach by car with plenty of parking, and if you wish to venture out, there are many great restaurants nearby. greatsampfordbandb.co.uk/
Head to the coast for a Twixmas adventure with your nearest and dearest. Holland Beach Bungalow is just 400 metres from the beach making it the perfect base for your festive getaway. During your stay visit Clacton Pier (Europe’s largest pleasure pier), go fossil hunting at Walton-on-the-Naze or take a brisk walk along the blue flag beach of Frinton-on-Sea – all just a stone’s throw away! hollandbeachbungalow.co.uk/
Guests can be assured of a great stay at the family-run Pier View Self Catering Luxury Apartments in Southend. Stay in a unique Grade II listed Georgian property, named after nearby Southend Pier, the world’s longest in the world. A must-visit during your stay! With a number of apartments to choose from, many with spectacular sea views, don’t hesitate to book your home from home this Twixmas. pierviewluxuryapartments.co.uk/
Warm up in front of the open fire with your favourite tipple at The Kings Arms in Coggeshall. A traditional pub and B&B, offering a number of cosy rooms and serving traditional pub classics. So, sit back, relax and let someone else take care of the cooking! thekingsarmsbroadgreen.co.uk
Stay in the heart of Colchester’s historic cultural quarter at Greyfriars this Christmas. Their unique bedrooms, complete with roll top baths, bespoke furniture and Voyage Indian Silk curtains and blinds provide pure luxury. The perfect way to end the year. During your stay why not treat yourself to their festive afternoon tea – the perfect balance of sweet and savoury, with a festive touch, of course. greyfriarscolchester.co.uk/
Book your fully inclusive getaway at Potters Resorts Five Lakes where they’ll take care of everything for you, and you won’t need to lift a finger. Indulge in seasonal coffees in the Garden Bar, reconnect with loved ones over delicious food in The Eden Restaurant and enjoy the superb facilities at your leisure. Don’t miss the Potters Theatre Company’s dazzling performance of Step into Christmas. pottersresorts.com/
For a sprinkle of luxury visit Marygreen Manor Hotel. Their popular Twixmas breaks provide you with everything you need for a much-needed night away, and for that extra special treat, enjoy a chilled bottle of prosecco and delicious box of chocolates in your room. marygreenmanor.co.uk/
If you’re looking to escape the festivities, The Camelia Hotel in Southend offers the perfect respite. Situated in a superb seaside position in Thorpe Bay, with unrivalled views, The Camelia offers a winning trio of fine food, modern facilities, and panoramic views. This intimate home-from-home is a constant delight. cameliahotel.com
The Park Inn by Radisson Palace in Southend-on-Sea offers comfortable rooms with scenic views for the whole family. Located in a much-loved seaside resort town and just a short walk from popular Adventure Island, there’s plenty of activities to help blow away the cobwebs this Twixmas. After a busy day on the arcades, relax in their on-site restaurant, RBG Bar & Grill, overlooking the world’s longest pier. radissonhotels.com/
Plan the perfect festive getaway in historic Harwich. Check in to The Pier Hotel where you can enjoy spending quality family time during your cosy overnight stay with views over the harbour. Why not book a Seal Watching Trip from nearby Ha’penny Pier? The trip takes you to the Walton Backwaters where you can see seals in their natural habitat - you’re guaranteed a sighting all year round! milsomhotels.com/the-pier/
Delta Hotels by Marriott Waltham Abbey offers a tranquil location near Epping Forest and Lee Valley, with direct access to Central London. You couldn’t get a more perfect location for a Twixmas adventure – this one’s perfect for adrenaline seekers! Hire bikes and ride through the forest or test your nerve at the Lee Valley White Water Centre. marriott.com
If you’re looking to ring in the New Year in style, then the Holiday Inn Southend is the place to be. Experience an unforgettable evening with a delicious meal, live music, and dazzling city views from their magnificent 1935 Rooftop Restaurant & Bar. Raise a glass of bubbly at midnight and toast to a prosperous 2025! hisouthend.com/
Spend the biggest night of the year at the County Hotel in Chelmsford. Indulge in a five-course meal washed down with a glass of prosecco and dance your socks off until the early hours, all before heading back to your room for a restful night’s sleep! Don’t let the celebrations stop there… enjoy a home cooked breakfast with Bucks Fizz before heading home. countyhotelchelmsford.co.uk
Gather your family for an informal New Year’s Eve party at the Marks Tey Hotel. Set across three inter-linked rooms indulge in festive grazing platters followed by a sweet buffet, live music, DJ, midnight celebrations and special fireworks display. Guests can purchase event only tickets, or add on an overnight stay with family rooms available. marksteyhotel.co.uk/
Join the Harlow Hotel by Accor for an unforgettable New Year experience. Raise your glass to 2025 with loved ones at their family friendly New Year’s Eve party, complete with three course buffet feast and plenty of your favourite dance floor fillers. all.accor.com/
For festive feastings and roaring good times, welcome in 2025 at The Lion Inn, Boreham. For a more relaxed evening choose from their A La Carte menu in the main bar and restaurant or if you want an excuse to get dolled up, book their New Year’s Eve Gala with three course dinner, dancing and drinks. lioninnhotel.co.uk/
A world of wonder awaits at Talliston House in Great Dunmow. Enter an enchanted world of light, music, colour and sound this winter as you tour each of the thirteen rooms, before settling down for tea at a fully decorated candlelit table in the Victorian Watchtower. The ultimate faerie tale winter experience and unique way to see in the new year. talliston.com/
Dust off your sequins and join Down Hall for their New Year’s Eve Gala. Enjoy a black-tie canape and champagne reception before sitting down to a sumptuous five course dinner with live music from singer and piano duo. Their resident DJ and saxophonist will keep the party going until late. Why not carry on your celebrations and stay the night? On New Years Day, welcome in 2025 with a delicious brunch! downhall.co.uk/
To discover more places to stay in Essex this Twixmas, go to visitessex.com
