Luxury log cabins in Essex with private hot tubs

Located on Southend-on-Seas’ golden mile, this amusement park is a great family day out when staying at a lodge or log cabin with hot tub in Essex. With 32 rides, including thrilling roller coasters and traditional rides there is plenty to do and see.

Discover marine-life from all over the world in 40 exciting displays at Sea Life Adventure, try to get a hole in one at Adventure Golf, or speed round the track in the Formula A1 Karting.

The indoor soft play is perfect for the little ones and with plenty of places to eat and drink you are guaranteed a fun day out.

Colchester Zoo opened in 1963 and is home to over 260 species of animals including; wolves, elephants, bears and tigers. Have you ever held a hissing cockroach or giant African snail? Well you can in the fascinating discovery centre,

Ride the lost Madagascar train or let the kids run wild in the adventure play areas and there’s no need to worry about the weather as there are plenty of undercover activities.

For a special occasion book one of the amazing animal experiences or be a keeper for the day. There is so much to do at this premier attraction you will be spoilt for choice.

The longest pleasure pier in the world Southend Pier stretches over a mile into the Thames Estuary, it even has its own train to transport you to the end where you will find Southend Pier Museum, a popular cafe and some of the most breathtaking views you will ever see.

The Royal Pavilion boasts a variety of events throughout the year including exhibitions, concerts and plays while the 12-hole mini golf-course is loads of fun.

Don’t forget to pick up a postcard from the friendly visitor centre which you can have stamped and post in the pier’s official postbox.

This garden sits on a 300-acre property in Chelmsford in the heart of Essex, one of four gardens that are run by the Royal Horticulture Society and one of the finest gardens in the East of England.

Set among rolling hills it offers beautiful views over the surrounding landscape, take a stroll through the enchanting woodland, enjoy a picnic, there is no better way to spend a warm summer's day.

A firm favourite is the Dry Garden which is home to a fantastic display of drought tolerant plants. The children will enjoy the Higgledy Hyde play tower and there is a well-stocked shop for plant-related gifts.

This Grade I listed building is renowned for having the largest surviving keep in Europe. One and a half times larger than the White Tower at the Tower of London.

Building began in the 11th century and the castle sits on the ruins of the Roman Temple of Claudius, with collections of Neolithic pottery, and the Fenwick Hoard, among others.

A visit here takes you on a journey through 2000 years of history with extraordinary interactive displays and hands-on exhibits have a go at steering a chariot or building a Norman archway before enjoying a bite to eat at the café.

A beautiful red-brick Tudor mansion, Layer Marney Tower has the tallest Tudor Gatehouse in England, and sits in extensive formal gardens and parkland, with superb views across the Blackwater Estuary.

Used as a film location for many films and regarded as one of the most haunted properties in the UK, the estate offers tours of the house where you can view the panelled rooms and long gallery.

However, the real selling point of Layer Marney Tower are the grounds, perfect for a leisurely stroll especially if you have brought the dog along and are staying at one of our selected pet-friendly hot tub lodges in Essex.

You can’t be in the proximity of Britain’s most famous river without venturing on a boat trip.

Set sail from the lovely quay at Maldon for a wonderful sightseeing experience with lunch or dinner included for that extra special treat and don’t forget the camera as you sail past the RSPB reserve on Northey Island.

Take a leisurely cruise into the capital itself with an evening cruise to Canary Wharf and marvel at the beautifully lit Tower Bridge.

With pleasure cruisers, historic sailing boats and barges there are several ways to view the incredible wildlife and spectacular scenery of the Thames Estuary.