Set on the edge of popular Clacton-on-Sea, just a short walk from the beach, pier and seaside attractions, Valley Farm is a perfect choice for a family holiday. Together with an indoor heated swimming pool, there's an outdoor heated pool with its own patio – perfect for simply relaxing in the sun. Children will love the adventure playground, while the all-weather sports court provides fun for all the family. Once the sun goes down, you can enjoy a drink in The Sports Bar, or a family meal in the Food Court, before an evening of cabaret, shows, dancing and fun in the Valleyside Showbar. The surrounding area has a host of attractions to explore, with Colchester, home to Roman history, a castle, zoo and great shopping, just 16 miles away. Fishing, golf and a variety of sporting facilities abound close by and the picturesque villages and famous landmarks of Lavenham, Dedham Vale, Kersey and Flatford Mill are all within an easy drive.

Enjoying direct access to a fabulous sandy beach from its setting on the edge of the popular seaside town of Clacton, Martello Beach has everything you need for a traditional sun-and-sand family holiday. An array of facilities on site include an indoor and outdoor heated swimming pool with a sun terrace, multi sports court, bar, café and well stocked shop. Children will love their own summer entertainment programme, play areas and Sparky's Krew Club, and once the sun goes down, the East Beach Showbar provides fabulous entertainment for the whole family. This sunny corner of Essex has much to offer visitors from beaches, sea fishing, golf and leisure centres, to country parks and picturesque inland villages, such as famous Dedham. Family attractions and good shopping abound at Colchester, England's oldest recorded town.

Set on the famous Essex 'sunshine coast' Highfield Grange sits just 2 miles from the golden sandy beaches and bustling promenade of popular Clacton-on-Sea. Within easy reach of beautiful 'Constable country', and boasting a wealth of on site facilities including first class entertainment and children's activities programmes, the park ensures something to keep everyone in the family amused day and night. An excellent touring base in a region of contrasts, Highfield Grange is ideally situated for exploring the tranquil Essex countryside and superbly placed for enjoying day trips to London via the A12. Closer at hand, Clacton offers numerous seaside attractions and a fabulous shopping village, while Colchester, England's oldest recorded town, is home to an award winning zoo – a must for kids of all ages – and a wealth of family amenities. Flatford, Dedham, the Tendring Scenic Drive and the seaside resorts of Frinton, Walton and Holland-on-Sea are all within easy reach.

Commanding a beautiful coastal setting with magnificent estuary views, Steeple Bay is nestled in heart of the picturesque Essex countryside, in the seaside village of Southminster. Conveniently located only an hour from the capital city this scenic holiday park is ideal for those looking to enjoy time away with the family, quality entertainment or simply a break away from the hustle and bustle of modern day living. The historic town of Maldon is within easy reach together with popular seaside resorts such as Southend-on-Sea and of course miles of glorious coastline and a vibrant nightlife all close by.

Set on the unique island of Mersea, between the Colne and Blackwater estuaries, this delightful, detached property lies within 10 minutes' stroll of the sandy beach (pictured), and just 5 minutes from shops, pub and restaurants. This popular yachting and fishing area has excellent local seafood and is a paradise for walkers and bird watchers. Colchester Zoo and Castle 10 miles. Constable Country and Clacton-on-Sea within 20 miles.

This hidden oasis, set in 26 acres and converted to exacting standards, enjoys a covered terrace for alfresco dining and glorious views over an undulating landscape encompassing a livery stable, rare breed sheep and woodland full of birdlife. With one of the best sailing stretches on the East coast, Brightlingsea is a unique yachting centre, rich in maritime heritage. Beth Chatto gardens 4 miles. Coarse fishing, beach ¾ mile. Shops, inns ½ mile.

Overlooking Martello Bay, this attractive, airy property and its enclosed garden enjoy the perfect location for family holidays. One of a row situated close to the golf course, less than a mile from pubs and shops in the town centre, it offers an ideal blend of relaxation and lively fun. Clacton's miles of sandy beaches, seafront gardens and Pleasure Pier are close by and Brightlingsea, Colchester Zoo and Beth Chatto Gardens are a short drive.

Set on charming Mersea Island and boasting scenic sea views, this leafy park is ideal for enjoying the sunny Essex coast and the numerous attractions of nearby Colchester – England's oldest recorded town. An indoor heated swimming pool, Sparky's Krew club, tennis, a café, take-away and a sparkling programme of entertainment are among the facilities for you to enjoy at Coopers Beach, together with a family clubroom offering fantastic views of the sea from its outdoor patio – perfect for a relaxing family holiday. Countryside walks, crabbing on the shingle beach, fishing trips, golf and pony trekking offer family fun close at hand, while Colchester, just 12 miles away, has one of the finest zoos in Europe, a huge leisure complex, a fascinating castle museum and excellent shopping.

Seawick offers a special atmosphere and everything a family holiday should be sun, fun and so much to do you'll be spoilt for choice! There's an excellent range of facilities at Seawick. Together with an entertainment programme that includes sports, competitions, dancing and cabaret, children get to join the entertainment team for children's fun time with games, competitions, sports and dancing. You are ideally located for exploring the lovely rolling Essex countryside and gentle coastline; St Osyth's beach is only 5 minutes' walk away. August brings the carnival and air show to town, and ancient Colchester with its castle, museums, and award-winning zoo, is an easy drive.

Designed in harmony with nature these luxurious new lodges command superb views over lush rolling countryside close to the historic and picturesque town of Maldon. Perfect for a romantic escape or a relaxed family holiday away from the hustle and bustle of modern-day life. Surrounded by beautiful countryside, you are ideally placed to enjoy wonderful walks, cycling and golf. The park's golf clubhouse, converted from a charming 18th century barn, provides a stylish venue for a quiet drink or meal. A little further afield, a host of quaint villages and pretty market towns offering friendly inns and traditional country pubs all await discovery. It may be hard to believe, but London is only an hour away!