If you’re looking for the best Airbnbs or unique holiday rentals in Essex for a UK getaway, then look no further!
I’ve put together this list of unusual places to stay in Essex that are perfect if you’re planning to rent holiday homes in Essex, a glamping getaway or luxury lodges with hot tubs, Essex has them all!
Check out this post for more unique stays all over the UK.
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Quirky places to stay in Essex
In a rush? I've put all my favourite Essex Airbnbs on this link so you can view them all and book directly.
The Old Oak Treehouse
This stunning treehouse is intertwined with a 500 year old Oak tree, the boughs growing through the treehouse and strung with fairylights.
Large windows offer stunning panoramic views of the Essex countryside with the sounds of birds, rabbits and deers playing in the field.
Epping Station is nearby, meaning you’re just an hour from London if you fancy exploring further afield.
Otherwise, grab your walking boots to explore the local countryside or walk the 15 minutes to Toot Hill to visit the local pub.
With a full sized bath, kitchenette, double bed and private deck, this really is the place to unwind and disconnect.
Essex Glamping Pod
These adult only glamping pods are located with beautiful views over the Colne Valley and perfect for quirky places to stay in Essex.
The pods are perfect for a romantic weekend away all year round, with full heating and insulation. All pods include a kitchenette, double bed and ensuite with a BBQ and firepit on the deck outside with views across the fields.
If you’re looking for Essex getaways with a hot tub, this can be included at these pods. Dogs are also allowed.
The Millennium Tower
This unique stay in Essex was built in 2000 and has seven sides for 7 days of the week and 4 floors for each season.
The tower is tucked in acres of countryside all for you to explore by food or bike but is accessible by car.
The rooms are all uniquely shaped thanks to the nature of the tower, with a bedroom, bathroom and kitchen and living spaces. There is a staircase that leads to the rooftop too.
Railway Carriage
This stunningly restored unique holiday home is another example of unusual places to stay in Essex and this one is really cool!
This 1880s railway carriage is completely fitted out with a full double bedroom, kitchen and dining, a small deck, plus space to sit outside and dine al fresco.
The carriage is full heated and also has AC so it’s perfect for a UK weekend getaway in summer or winter.
Hot Tub Cabin Hideaway
Looking for romantic breaks in Essex? Lodges with hot tubs in Essex are what you need and this one is perfect!
Arrive to this couples only retreat to a bottle of bubbly, your own hot tub, pool access, private outdoor area and BBQ, plus a double bedroom, kitchenette and bathroom in this cosy wooden cabin.
With parking included and your own private outdoor courtyard with sun loungers, this is the perfect relaxing escape for unusual places to stay in Essex and enjoy the peace and quiet on a relaxing weekend.
Whether you’re looking for romantic breaks in Essex or short breaks in Essex, I hope this list gives you some inspiration for unique Essex stays.
You might also be interested in these unique London Airbnbs.
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Flights: I use Expedia to find great flights and the best deals all over the world, they have regular sales and offers so I always check their website. I also check CheapOair to find cheap deals on round trip flights.
Car Rental: I love the customer service I've always gotten and the variety of options with Rental Cars. But for short notice rentals, I've been using Expedia for the last year, they always seem to have great one-day rates or last-minute rates from the main rental companies.
Accommodation: I prefer the flexibility of booking accommodation with Booking.com so I can cancel or change my reservation without a fee or only pay on arrival for most properties. For longer or more unique stays I prefer AirBnB because you can get the long stay discount, you can also find more unique properties and book experiences with talented locals and businesses. For my budget trips, I always stay in hostels and book through Hostelworld because they have great guarantees if anything does go wrong. If you arrive and your booking is not at the property, they refund the full deposit AND give you $50 extra credit.
Tours and organised trips Although I don’t use tours that often, I do like to book local experiences or day trips once I reach my destination. For that I use GetYourGuide because it has the biggest selection and variety of tour and experience options.
Travel Insurance: I currently use SafetyWing Nomad Insurance. Which allows me to pay a rolling monthly fee to cover my long term travels.
My camera gear and equipment: I use a Canon 77D with an 18-135mm lens or a 50mm lens. And a DJI Mavic Mini Drone. For all my gear including laptops, tripods and more camera accessories read my travel photography gear guide.