20 best glamping in Essex & unusual holidays
Glamping in Essex is the ultimate fun getaway! Do you want to stay in a bell tent or a glamping pod? Want to stay on a yellow American school bus? How about a thatched cottage? Here you’ll find the best glamping in Essex for you to browse! The selection of holiday stays listed below are the perfect blend of rustic outdoors and modern comforts you want from daily life.
Afterall, I love being cosy and warm at the end of the day. If you’re anything like me, you love a fun stay away, what better way to get away for a short break than Glamping or a fun, quirky holiday? Make sure you take a good scroll to have a look at some of the best glamping sites and unusual stays in Essex below. Get yourself to East Anglia, what are you waiting for?
There are so many historic towns and Areas of Oustanding Natural Beauty to choose from, you’ll be spoilt for choice. We’ve got all sorts for you to pick here!
You might be interested in my other fun stays and things to do in the UK:
25 unique, quirky & unusual places to stay in Kent
21 Best hot tub cottages, lodges & hotels in Kent
Top 30 best restaurants in Essex
Don’t even get me started on the historic towns! Saffron Walden is a beautiful town that you must visit at least once in your life. The ice cream coloured cottages are something out of a dream and will certainly make your Instagram pop!
Saffron Walden is an old market town, making it rich in heritage, I loved strolling around the streets and snapping pictures and you will too! Don’t forget Clacton-on-Sea – the largest seaside town in Essex, and yet it’s extremely affordable, with plenty of options. Hatfield Peverel is another charming village to visit on your Glamping in Essex trip away.
Day Trips
For heaps of fun-filled activities and day trips out in Essex, you have Layer Marney tower – one of the historic sites that dates back to Tudor times. It’s actually the tallest Tudor gatehouse in England! Hadleigh park is one of the largest green spaces and nature reserves in Essex and is a mix of woodland, meadow, pasture and marshland; perfect for all nature lovers and if you have one, a furry best friend.
There’s also Hadleigh Castle, right in the heart of Hadleigh park. Don’t forget there’s Colchester Zoo, which will make for a fun day out too. The Coast and Heaths area has also been awarded an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), so make sure you don’t miss the nature trails and ancient woodland you can find all over the county.
The holiday homes are all situated in a great place, meaning you’ll be able to access all of the areas of interest. There’s also Colne Valley is a huge Local Nature Reserve north and east of Earls Colne in Essex, which is perfect for any nature lover.
Colne valley also has a heritage railway which takes you on on a trip with spectacular views across the countryside. Stop by River Blackwater, which is known for fishing trout and salmon. And of course, don’t forget the very famous Instagrammable Mersea Island, with its brightly coloured beach huts.
Whether you’re a large family looking for a stay with bunk beds for the little ones, a couple looking for a romantic break or a group of mates, on a stag do or a hen party, there are plenty of options for you to choose from. Some of the charming farms nearby are very quaint and cute; some of them even have an honesty shop on the side of the road, and it’s just an indication of how open and trusting the community is in Essex.
Essex is also super popular with Londoners, and why wouldn’t it be, just a stone’s throw from the city? It’s the perfect getaway, as it is only a short drive away from Central London. Get yourself to East Anglia!
20 Best glamping in Essex & unusual stays
Essex glamping… here we come!
The Dragonfly Shepherd’s Hut with Hot tub, Colchester
With an incredible rating of 9.8 you can’t go wrong with this cosy, rustic little shepherds hut, complete with a roasting hot tub and high quality super comfy beds whilst Glamping in Essex.
It is the ultimate unique glamping experience. It has very well thought out accommodation in front of a field which made for beautiful sunsets within private land including a bridged lake.
One of the most beautiful shepherds huts! Don’t forget to visit Layer Marney tower – one of the historic sites of interest for Glamping in Essex! The best experience for sure.
American Bus Stop, Stock
Sleeps 2
Needless to say, this one is a little different to your usual holiday. This super quirky stay is the perfect place for 2; best friends or a romantic getaway, this will certainly be one to talk about (and show off about).
Make sure you click through and look at the quirky bathrooms with a tropical aesthetic. It comes with a fully equipped kitchen area too, so you can enjoy breakfast in bed. You can enjoy hiking and cycling nearby, or make the most of the garden.
This is one of the ultimate best experiences Glamping in Essex!
Glamping Pods in Essex, Dovercourt Holiday Park, Harwich
Sleeps 2-4
Multiple Glamping Pods available
Get ready for your glamping holiday! The Glamping pods are an exciting cosy home away from home. You’ll have plenty to do on the holiday park, which is just a short walk from the pool and surrounding nature walks.
The is a great glamping Essex experience, make sure you don’t miss it! Just make sure you book it before high season is in full swing.
Marina Village Lodge with hot tub, Roydon
Sleeps 4 + 2 – 6 – 4
Multiple holiday lodges available
These beautiful holiday lodges are a perfect getaway in Roydon, and with a fabulous rating of 8.6 you can be sure to have a good time. It comes complete with excellent facilities; Wi-Fi, kitchen, terrace and of course, a smashing hot tub to unwind after day enjoying nature’s finest walks whilst Glamping in Essex.
Glamping Sites in Essex
Armadilla Farm Cottages & Glamping and Hot Tub, Clacton-on-Sea
Sleeps 2
One of the perfect glamping sites for short break away with a wooden hot tub. Enjoy luxurious camping in one of the three Armadillas, perfect for 2 adults to relax in comfort. They are just like a hotel room, but in a field!
Please note the Armadilla Pods are for adults only, so perfect for a bestie break or a romantic getaway whilst Glamping in Essex.
Holiday Lodges and Cabins, Pheasant suites
Sleeps 2 – 2 – 1
Three properties available
These smashing holiday cabins come with a rating of 9.7, so you’re pretty certain to have a good time. Situated on the grounds of Ball’s Farm (a working farm, coincidentally), you’ll be surrounded by wildlife, flowers, greenery and nature, the perfect place for some country walks and views of the Essex Countryside.
Panfield House, Braintree
Sleeps 2-4
This gorgeous holiday home is perfect for a short getaway. Explore nearby Braintree to learn about the rich history and textile museums and District Museum for a unique experience.
Orchard View Retreat with Hot Tub, Little Clacton
Sleeps 4 + 2
This is one of the best places for a cosy stay, complete with a crackling fire pit and steaming private hot tub to boot. Little Clacton is a charming town where you’ll be able to stop at cute cafes, and even pick up some ice cream and fish and chips.
And if you’re thinking about potentially bringing your furry best friend, then good news, because dogs are welcome Glamping in Essex.
Glamping at Stansted Manor
Sleeps 4-6
Who doesn’t love glamping tents? If it’s your first time then dont worry, this is an easy break into the wonderful world of glamping in these beautiful safari tents, or tipis.
These cosy bell tents are the perfect place to sit back, relax and enjoy the finer things in life whilst still being connected to nature. This place is stunning and is perfect for a family or a group of friends.
Luxury Glamping in Essex
The Retreat, Colchester
Sleeps 2
With a super high rating of 8.9, you can’t go wrong glamping in Essex. Offering a garden and pool view, this retreat is set in one of the best places in West Mersea.
The 5-star glamping lodge has a beautiful garden view and is nearby to Hedingham Castle which is north west of Colchester. The beds are super comfy and perfect for a good night’s sleep.
Plumptons Farm Holiday Lodges, Colchester
Sleeps 2 – 2 – 2
Multiple lodges available
With a rating of 9.4 you can’t really go wrong with this luxury little Holiday Lodge on Plumpton Farm.
Set in Colchester in the Essex region, Plumptons Farm offers accommodation with free private parking.
The lodge comes with a terrace, garden views, a seating area, cable flat-screen TV, a kitchenette with a fridge, a stovetop, and a private bathroom with shower and a hairdryer. A toaster and kettle are also available so you can have cosy breakfasts in bed.
The Cottage Getaway, Saffron Walden
Sleeps 2-5
This smashing property has a rating of 9.2 and is the perfect getaway in Saffron Walden. It’s the perfect base for exploring nearby Cambridge and Hedingham Castle.
Very relaxing and peaceful, perfect location for Duxford and surrounding areas. Make sure you don’t miss the short walk around town viewing the ice cream coloured cottages.
The Tower, 1 bed 1850’s Tiny House
Sleeps 2
The tower is a cute and quirky stay for a beautiful short break away whilst glamping in Essex. It’s one of the best places if you’re travelling by train as it is a short distance from from Chelmsford Train Station, so very accessible and easy to get to.
Have a look at the pictures to see how small this Tiny House really is, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
South Lodge, St Osyth Priory with hot tub
Sleeps 4
This quirky holiday home, or I should say now Priory, is a really unusual and fun stay in Essex. Sit back and relax, get into the hot tub and relax.
Ivy Todd cottage, Debden
Sleeps 2 – 2
2 properties available.
They have 2 gorgeous cottages; treetops cottage and Bluebell cottage. Could this be any more quaint?
Staying in a thatched cottage is just as special as it seems and it has an outstanding rating of 9.8 from over 300 guests. You can’t go wrong with this one.
Toosey Lass Boat House Stay, Clacton on Sea
Sleeps 2
Toosey Lass comes complete with a crackling fireplace and excellent views of St Osyth Creek. It’s also situated in Clacton on Sea, which is perfect for days out, ice creams on the beach and some fish and chips.
The Bird House at Woodburn Cottage, Dedham
Sleeps 2-4
This property comes highly rated at 9.4 so it’s pretty much guaranteed you’re going to have a great time. The Bird House comes with a spanking a terrace and a patio (fingers crossed for good weather).
You’ll be able to explore the nearby countryside from your getaway glamping in Essex, and if you fancy a little trip, it’s only around 37 km from Hedingham Castle.
The Jasmine Room, Great Bentley
Sleeps 4
This ultra luxury stay is perfect for a romantic break whilst glamping in Essex!
Wendens Ambo with claw foot bathtub, Saffron Walden
Sleeps 4
This stunningly decorated property comes complete with a fancy claw foot bath tub, how can you resist? It comes with an equally beautifully decorated kitchen area and living area, and if that wasn’t enough, pets are allowed! Bring your furry friends away with you! And it should do, being rated at 9.5.
VaLa VistA – Holiday Home On The Beach, Jaywick Sands
Sleeps 6 + 4
1 double bed, 1 bunk bed, 1 sofa bed
All I’m going to say is that this stay looks utterly fun. Perfect for a large family or a group of mates, this stay is going to be a good one. The reviews of this place reflect it too, with a spanking rating of 9.5, you’re guaranteed to have a good time.
There are some smashing properties listed, I hope you find one and have a fabulous stay.
Weather in Essex
Essex Weather in January
- Average Temperature: 4°C (39°F)
- Rainy Days: 10
- Daylight Hours: 8
- Sunrise Time: Around 7:50 AM
- Sunset Time: Around 4:30 PM
Essex Weather in February
- Average Temperature: 4°C (39°F)
- Rainy Days: 8
- Daylight Hours: 10
- Sunrise Time: Around 7:10 AM
- Sunset Time: Around 5:20 PM
Essex Weather in March
- Average Temperature: 6°C (43°F)
- Rainy Days: 9
- Daylight Hours: 12
- Sunrise Time: Around 6:20 AM
- Sunset Time: Around 6:10 PM
Essex Weather in April
- Average Temperature: 8°C (46°F)
- Rainy Days: 9
- Daylight Hours: 14
- Sunrise Time: Around 6:00 AM
- Sunset Time: Around 8:00 PM
Essex Weather in May
- Average Temperature: 12°C (54°F)
- Rainy Days: 8
- Daylight Hours: 16
- Sunrise Time: Around 5:10 AM
- Sunset Time: Around 8:50 PM
Essex Weather in June
- Average Temperature: 15°C (59°F)
- Rainy Days: 8
- Daylight Hours: 16
- Sunrise Time: Around 4:50 AM
- Sunset Time: Around 9:20 PM
Essex Weather in July
- Average Temperature: 17°C (63°F)
- Rainy Days: 7
- Daylight Hours: 16
- Sunrise Time: Around 5:00 AM
- Sunset Time: Around 9:00 PM
Essex Weather in August
- Average Temperature: 17°C (63°F)
- Rainy Days: 7
- Daylight Hours: 14
- Sunrise Time: Around 5:40 AM
- Sunset Time: Around 8:20 PM
Essex Weather in September
- Average Temperature: 14°C (57°F)
- Rainy Days: 8
- Daylight Hours: 12
- Sunrise Time: Around 6:20 AM
- Sunset Time: Around 7:00 PM
Essex Weather in October
- Average Temperature: 11°C (52°F)
- Rainy Days: 10
- Daylight Hours: 10
- Sunrise Time: Around 7:00 AM
- Sunset Time: Around 6:00 PM
Essex Weather in November
- Average Temperature: 7°C (45°F)
- Rainy Days: 10
- Daylight Hours: 8
- Sunrise Time: Around 7:40 AM
- Sunset Time: Around 4:20 PM
Essex Weather in December
- Average Temperature: 5°C (41°F)
- Rainy Days: 10
- Daylight Hours: 8
- Sunrise Time: Around 8:00 AM
- Sunset Time: Around 4:00 PM
That’s it! I hope you enjoy visiting sites around Essex, Clacton on Sea, and enjoy beachfront walks, if that’s what you’re after.
Quick links
| Here’s everything I use when I travel abroad: Tours – Compare tour prices on Viator and Get Your Guide Hotels – I always use Booking as the more hotels I book, I get a higher Genius discount. I also compare prices on Expedia. E-Sims – purchase an e-sim with Airalo on your phone so you can make calls and have mobile data abroad! There’s no need to remove your current sim card! Travel insurance – don’t ever go on vacation without travel insurance, you never know when you might need it! Travel essentials – have a look at a full list of travel essentials that I use, including the best power bank! |
You might be interested in my other in the UK:
25 unique, quirky & unusual places to stay in Kent
21 Best hot tub cottages, lodges & hotels in Kent
Top 30 best restaurants in Essex
Best Glamping sites near Brighton
Full disclosure! Some of the links here are affiliate links, meaning I get a small commission from every booking made. This is at no extra cost to you. It helps keep me writing and sharing my travel guides free of charge to you 🙂 Thank you for your support! Read our affiliate disclaimer here.
