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Check prices for these dates

Tonight
14 Oct - 15 Oct
Tomorrow
15 Oct - 16 Oct
This weekend
16 Oct - 18 Oct
Next weekend
23 Oct - 25 Oct

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Our top choices for Brightlingsea hotels

1. The Aviator, formerly Smugglers Cove, Clacton On Sea by Marston's Inns

The Aviator, formerly Smugglers Cove, Clacton On Sea by Marston's Inns
Clacton-on-Sea
United Kingdom
Caroline
AU$102
includes taxes & fees
8 Nov - 9 Nov
The Aviator, formerly Smugglers Cove, Clacton On Sea by Marston's Inns

2. Wivenhoe House Hotel

Wivenhoe House Hotel
Colchester
United Kingdom
Natasha
AU$228
includes taxes & fees
19 Oct - 20 Oct
Wivenhoe House Hotel

3. Marine Inn

Marine Inn
Clacton-on-Sea
United Kingdom
Bev
AU$132
includes taxes & fees
19 Oct - 20 Oct
Marine Inn

4. Adelaide Guesthouse

Adelaide Guesthouse
Clacton-on-Sea
United Kingdom
Steve
AU$158
includes taxes & fees
15 Oct - 16 Oct
Adelaide Guesthouse

5. The Victory at Mersea

The Victory at Mersea
Colchester
United Kingdom
Roger
AU$162
includes taxes & fees
18 Oct - 19 Oct
The Victory at Mersea

6. Kingscliff Hotel

Kingscliff Hotel
Clacton-on-Sea
Canada
Mark
AU$135
includes taxes & fees
1 Nov - 2 Nov
Kingscliff Hotel

7. The North Hill Hotel, Colchester

The North Hill Hotel, Colchester
Colchester
United Kingdom
Johnny
AU$131
includes taxes & fees
15 Oct - 16 Oct
The North Hill Hotel, Colchester

8. Birds Farm

Birds Farm
Colchester
United Kingdom
Nicola
AU$179
includes taxes & fees
1 Nov - 2 Nov
Birds Farm

9. GreyFriars

GreyFriars
Colchester
United States
Mark
AU$236
includes taxes & fees
2 Nov - 3 Nov
GreyFriars

10. Holiday Inn Express Colchester by IHG

Holiday Inn Express Colchester by IHG
Colchester
United Kingdom
Dawn
AU$104
includes taxes & fees
12 Nov - 13 Nov
Holiday Inn Express Colchester by IHG

11. Best Western The Rose & Crown Hotel

Best Western The Rose & Crown Hotel
Colchester
United Kingdom
Michelle
AU$114
includes taxes & fees
25 Oct - 26 Oct
Best Western The Rose & Crown Hotel

12. The Rose & Crown Free House

The Rose & Crown Free House
Clacton-on-Sea
United Kingdom
Chris
AU$216
includes taxes & fees
20 Oct - 21 Oct
The Rose & Crown Free House

13. OYO Pier Hotel

OYO Pier Hotel
Clacton-on-Sea
United Kingdom
Natalia
AU$111
includes taxes & fees
18 Oct - 19 Oct
OYO Pier Hotel

14. Premier Inn Colchester Town Centre

Premier Inn Colchester Town Centre
Colchester
Canada
Patricia
AU$99
includes taxes & fees
1 Nov - 2 Nov
Premier Inn Colchester Town Centre

15. Langtry Hotel

Langtry Hotel
Clacton-on-Sea
United Kingdom
Tracy
AU$91
includes taxes & fees
21 Oct - 22 Oct
Langtry Hotel

16. St Nicholas Hotel

St Nicholas Hotel
Colchester
Mexico
Ana Sofia
AU$130
includes taxes & fees
8 Nov - 9 Nov
St Nicholas Hotel

17. Esplanade Hotel - Clacton On Sea (Beachfront Hotel) by OYO

Esplanade Hotel - Clacton On Sea (Beachfront Hotel) by OYO
Clacton-on-Sea
United Kingdom
Ewa
AU$105
includes taxes & fees
20 Oct - 21 Oct
Esplanade Hotel - Clacton On Sea (Beachfront Hotel) by OYO

18. Star Anglia Hotel

Star Anglia Hotel
Colchester
United Kingdom
Iain
AU$125
includes taxes & fees
16 Oct - 17 Oct
Star Anglia Hotel

19. Lifehouse Spa & Hotel

Lifehouse Spa & Hotel
Clacton-on-Sea
United Kingdom
Katherine
AU$321
includes taxes & fees
21 Oct - 22 Oct
Lifehouse Spa & Hotel

20. Delta Hotels by Marriott Colchester

Delta Hotels by Marriott Colchester
Colchester
United Kingdom
Harry
AU$135
includes taxes & fees
18 Oct - 19 Oct
Delta Hotels by Marriott Colchester
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Stay near popular Brightlingsea attractions

Brightlingsea Open Air Swimming Pool

Catch an event at Brightlingsea Open Air Swimming Pool during your trip to Brightlingsea. Visit the spas and lively bars in this relaxing area.
See properties

Learn more about Brightlingsea

This charming Essex seaside town invites you to explore its colourful beach huts and watch sailing boats at Brightlingsea Creek. Join locals at the open-air lido in summer or take the foot ferry to Point Clear for coastal walks with stunning views.

See all hotels in Brightlingsea
A wooden cabin with a curved roof, a porch, and a grill outside.
Photo by Paul Devall

Top Brightlingsea Hotel Reviews

Recent Reviews in Brightlingsea

Wivenhoe House Hotel

Wivenhoe House Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"Lovely hotel, great room, very quiet location. Restaurant & food were superb, recommend highly"
Steve 3-night trip
Posted 18 hours ago
Wivenhoe House Hotel
Orwell Hotel

Orwell Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"Clean and comfortable room, all staff were helpful and courteous...didn't use bar or restaurant because of other plans but looked clean and tidy....will stay again in the future."
Paul 3-night trip
Posted 23 hours ago
Orwell Hotel
Holiday Inn Ipswich by IHG

Holiday Inn Ipswich by IHG

10/10 Excellent
"I stayed here last weekend and had a fantastic experience. The hotel is very easy to access by car, and the free on-site parking is a great bonus. The staff throughout the hotel were incredible. We were treated to a complimentary breakfast that was absolutely amazing, featuring an excellent variety of choices. They are highly accommodating to dietary needs, offering plenty of vegan options alongside on-request items like porridge and vegan sausages. A special mention goes to Wendy at breakfast, who was exceptionally helpful in guiding me through the options suitable for my allergies. The room itself was spacious, and the shower was excellent. I also highly appreciated the convenience of the 24/7 reception and the unrestricted, secure access to the hotel at any hour. I highly recommend this property and look forward to returning."
Katrina 1-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
Holiday Inn Ipswich by IHG
Best Western The Rose & Crown Hotel

Best Western The Rose & Crown Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"I booked a single room and was so pleasantly surprised. The decor was nice, room was very clean and the bed was so comfy. I had the best night sleep. I would highly recommend"
Tracey 1-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
Best Western The Rose & Crown Hotel
B&B HOTEL Ipswich

B&B HOTEL Ipswich

10/10 Excellent
"Always a great stay, my go to"
Elizabeth 6-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
B&B HOTEL Ipswich
The Essex Golf and Country Club

The Essex Golf and Country Club

10/10 Excellent
"This was our 6th stay at The Essex and we never have any complaints. The rooms are good size and have been recently refurbished. The location is nice and quiet, with a nice walk round the local airfield"
Matt 2-night trip
Posted 3 days ago
The Essex Golf and Country Club
Delta Hotels by Marriott Colchester

Delta Hotels by Marriott Colchester

10/10 Excellent
"Second time staying here. Great place, friendly staff, room was really nice. Still the only downside is having to pay for parking, should be free for those staying at the hotel in my opinion."
David 1-night trip
Posted 4 days ago
Delta Hotels by Marriott Colchester
The George of Colchester

The George of Colchester

10/10 Excellent
"Absolutely beautiful hotel and lovely staff. You are made to feel valued and welcome from everyone. The housekeeping staff are non intrusive, efficient and respectful of your privacy. The pub stuff are phenomenal, excellent and quick service with perfectly made cocktails. The breakfast/dining room is beautiful. The food is fresh, served quickly and the host and serving staff are kind and friendly. I cannot say enough good things about the ladies at reception. They were so helpful with my package deliveries trying to get my son set up at uni. They laughed along with me at the ridiculous packaging I would receive and were so gracious, thoughtful and helpful. The owners of this hotel and their guests are incredibly lucky to have such amazing staff to look after them. With more trips to Colchester coming, this will be my choice every time. I look forward to their welcoming smiles and a perfectly made espresso martini! Thank you so much for turning a difficult and stressful trip into a fantastic experience. Truly one of a kind!"
Traci 8-night trip
Posted 5 days ago
The George of Colchester
The Mill Hotel

The Mill Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"It was our 2 time staying there and it was great a usual. Always beautiful rooms and friendly staff."
Amanda 4-night trip
Posted 6 days ago
The Mill Hotel

More cheap accommodation in Brightlingsea

Sarah Hotel

Sarah Hotel

65 Garland Rd Harwich England
AU$79
30 Oct - 31 Oct
includes taxes & fees
8.6/10 Excellent! (65 reviews)
Sarah Hotel
Bridge Guest House

Bridge Guest House

4-6 Ancaster Road Ipswich England
AU$90
20 Oct - 21 Oct
includes taxes & fees
Bridge Guest House
Langtry Hotel

Langtry Hotel

2-4 Colne Road Clacton-on-Sea England
AU$91
21 Oct - 22 Oct
includes taxes & fees
7.4/10 Good! (232 reviews)
Langtry Hotel
Noble Goose Rooms

Noble Goose Rooms

2 Stoneham St Colchester England
AU$241
16 Oct - 17 Oct
includes taxes & fees
Noble Goose Rooms
University of Essex -  Colchester Campus

University of Essex - Colchester Campus

University of Essex Colchester England
Get ratesUniversity of Essex - Colchester Campus
Premier Inn Ipswich Hotel

Premier Inn Ipswich Hotel

Old Hadleigh Rd Ipswich ENG
Get ratesPremier Inn Ipswich Hotel

Find out more about Brightlingsea

Top reasons to visit Brightlingsea

  • Stunning Beaches: Brightlingsea Beach offers beautiful sands and scenic views, perfect for relaxation and family fun.
  • Historic Attractions: Explore the iconic Tower and picturesque jetty, rich in local history and charm.
  • Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy various outdoor activities, including walking trails and recreational areas for all ages.
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: This seaside village is ideal for families, providing a range of engaging activities.
  • Charming Accommodation: Experience diverse lodging options, from cosy B&Bs to family-friendly hotels, ensuring a comfortable stay.

Find great hotels near Brightlingsea

Discover a range of accommodation options in Brightlingsea, from charming bed and breakfasts to family-friendly hotels. Whether you're seeking a pet-friendly getaway or a business-themed stay, this coastal town has something for everyone. Explore top-rated guesthouses and hotels that cater to all types of travellers, ensuring a comfortable and memorable holiday experience in this picturesque part of the United Kingdom.

  • Dragonfly Hotel Colchester: Nestled 14.5km from Brightlingsea, Dragonfly Hotel Colchester is a charming 3-star establishment that offers a relaxing getaway for those seeking comfort and convenience. The hotel features a delightful on-site restaurant serving breakfast and a bar/lounge for unwinding after a day of exploration. With satellite and LCD TVs in the rooms, guests can enjoy entertainment at their leisure. Nearby attractions like the local zoo provide additional fun for families, making this hotel an excellent choice for a laid-back retreat.
  • Delta Hotels by Marriott Colchester: This 4-star hotel, located 14.5km from Brightlingsea, is perfect for families and business travellers alike. Delta Hotels by Marriott Colchester offers a range of business amenities, including meeting rooms and conference spaces, catering to corporate needs. Families will appreciate thoughtful features such as first aid kits and window guards for children. The property is also pet-friendly, welcoming dogs and cats, and providing essential amenities for furry companions. With its blend of comfort and practicality, it’s ideal for both leisure and work trips.
  • Holiday Inn Colchester by IHG: Situated 17.7km from Brightlingsea, the Holiday Inn Colchester by IHG is a premium 4-star option for families and business guests. It boasts comprehensive business facilities, including a conference centre and multiple meeting rooms. The hotel is family-friendly, offering amenities like first aid kits and a shared playground for children to enjoy. With its modern comforts and convenient location, this hotel ensures a memorable and productive stay for all types of travellers.

Where to stay in Brightlingsea

Brightlingsea, a charming village nestled on the Essex coast, offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventure and beach relaxation. Explore the stunning sea views and friendly atmosphere while soaking up the local culture. Just a short trip away, Clacton-on-Sea boasts vibrant seaside attractions, and Freeport Braintree offers fantastic shopping opportunities. Whether you're after a family-friendly getaway or a budget-friendly escape, Brightlingsea and its surrounding areas promise a memorable holiday experience.

  • Colchester: A historic city located 12.9km from Brightlingsea, Colchester is a treasure trove for those seeking a mix of culture and outdoor activities. Known for its rich history, it boasts the remains of a Roman wall and a vibrant theatre scene. Visitors can enjoy shopping at local centres or take a stroll through its charming streets, with landmarks like the modern university and historic sites adding to its allure. The best times to visit are during the warmer months, specifically in April, July, and September when the city buzzes with family-friendly events.
  • Clacton-on-Sea: Right on the coast, Clacton-on-Sea is where Brightlingsea finds its surroundings. This lively seaside town is renowned for its beaches and outdoor experiences. Families flock here during the peak summer months of June to August, enjoying the fun of the local arcades and recreational areas. Clacton’s stunning beaches, including a family-friendly stretch and a nudist beach, offer a perfect getaway for sun-seekers and water lovers alike. The local theatre adds cultural flair, making it a well-rounded destination for all.
  • Saint Osyth: A quaint village just 3.2km from Brightlingsea, Saint Osyth is perfect for a peaceful retreat. With its beautiful beaches and parks, it invites visitors to unwind in nature. The village sees a seasonal influx of tourists from June to August, drawn by its coastal charm and family-oriented activities. The local theatre provides entertainment, while the nudist beach caters to adventurous spirits. Saint Osyth's close-knit community and scenic spots make it an ideal spot for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.

Things to do near Brightlingsea

Brightlingsea is perfect for outdoor and beach adventures, offering a range of activities such as access to scenic trails and recreational areas. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy local courses, while visitors can explore fascinating sights throughout the town. Whether you're looking for a relaxing resort experience or an exciting day out, Brightlingsea has something for everyone to enjoy.

Shopping

In Brightlingsea, you can explore local shops for unique gifts. Assington Barn offers a charming selection. If you're up for a drive, Felixstowe Market and Cardinal Park provide a lively shopping experience with a variety of stores and entertainment options, located 17 and 29.0km away respectively.

Recreation

The Brightlingsea Open Air Swimming Pool offers a refreshing outdoor experience, perfect for families and sports enthusiasts. Cudmore Grove Country Park provides a tranquil setting for relaxation and wellness amidst nature. For playful family fun, Wyvernwood playground is an excellent spot for kids to explore and enjoy the outdoors.

Adventure

At Foxhall Stadium, located 30.6km from Brightlingsea, experience the thrill of motor racing amidst high-speed excitement. Alton Water, 20.9km away, offers a variety of water sports, perfect for outdoor adventurers. For karting enthusiasts, Rayleigh Indoor Karting Stadium, 38.6km distant, promises fun-filled racing challenges.

Nightlife

In Brightlingsea, the West Cliff Theatre offers a charming night of culture and romance just 8.0km away. For a family adventure, head to Xtreme Gaming, located 12.9km away, or enjoy the thrills at The Wheel Experience, also 8.0km from Brightlingsea.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Brightlingsea

To save money on your trip to Brightlingsea, consider visiting during the off-peak season from December to February, when accommodation prices are lower. Aim to book your stay on a Thursday for the best rates, and utilise Expedia to find deals by sorting prices from lowest to highest. Look for eco-certified hotels to support sustainable options. Additionally, combine your hotel, flights, and activities for potential package savings. Walking is a great way to explore Brightlingsea, allowing you to enjoy free activities while keeping transport costs down.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Brightlingsea are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to July to September, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Brightlingsea is Thursday. The most expensive day to stay in Brightlingsea is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you prefer. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To find the most affordable prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your Brightlingsea hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions near Brightlingsea

Brightlingsea is perfect for outdoor and beach adventures, offering a variety of attractions like the beautiful Brightlingsea Beach, the historic Tower, and the scenic jetty. Whether you're seeking cultural experiences or family-friendly activities, the local harbour and beach provide great options for relaxation and exploration. This charming seaside destination promises an unforgettable experience for all types of travellers.

  • University of Essex: A modern university that exudes a vibrant city atmosphere, offering stunning architecture and lively student life just 9.7km from Brightlingsea. It's a great spot for soaking in contemporary academic culture.
  • Clacton Pier: This charming jetty is nestled 8.0km away and provides a fun, relaxing experience. Enjoy the friendly locals and indulge in luxury amusements while taking in the tranquil seaside views.
  • Flatford Mill: Located 17.7km from Brightlingsea, this historic windmill offers a serene escape. Experience a blend of history and nature in a budget-friendly environment, with welcoming locals and picturesque landscapes.

Best time to go to Brightlingsea

The best time to visit Brightlingsea is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January40.5°F (4.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
February41.4°F (5.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March44.2°F (6.8°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyAverageAverage
April48.0°F (8.9°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageAverage
May53.2°F (11.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June59.2°F (15.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighAverage
July63.3°F (17.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
August64.0°F (17.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
September60.1°F (15.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
October54.7°F (12.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowAverage
November47.7°F (8.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowAverage
December42.8°F (6.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowSlightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Brightlingsea

When visiting Brightlingsea, you have several airport options. London Stansted Airport (STN) is 53.1km away, with nearby accommodations like the 5-star Linden Stansted, located 4.8km from the airport, and the 4-star Radisson Blu Hotel, just 322m away. Alternatively, London Southend Airport (SEN) is only 33.8km away, offering options such as the 5-star Suenos Guesthouse, 4.8km from the airport, and the 4-star Holiday Inn Southend, a mere 161m away. Lastly, London City Airport (LCY) is 75.6km from Brightlingsea, with luxurious options like Sea Containers London and The Royal Horseguards, both about 11.3km away.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best area to stay in Brightlingsea?
The best area to stay in Brightlingsea is the waterfront and town centre, particularly around the historic Bateman's Tower and the bustling yacht club.This area is the heart of Brightlingsea, offering immediate access to the sea and all the town's main amenities. You'll find a good selection of independent shops, cafes, and restaurants along the high street, which runs parallel to the waterfront. The promenade provides lovely views across the estuary and is superb for a leisurely stroll. Couples looking for a relaxing break by the sea will appreciate the ease of access to walks and dining options.Families will find this area particularly convenient due to its proximity to the paddling pool, the beach huts, and the small sandy beach at low tide. There are also plenty of opportunities for crabbing and watching the boats, providing entertainment for children.
When is the best time to go to Brightlingsea?
The best time to visit Brightlingsea is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is at its warmest and most reliable.During this period, you can expect pleasant temperatures, ideal for enjoying the town's coastal activities and events. Many local businesses, such as cafes and ice cream parlours, are fully operational, and there are often community events and festivals scheduled. This is also when the Brightlingsea Lido is open, offering an outdoor swimming experience.For travellers who prefer a quieter experience with fewer crowds but still good weather, late spring (May) or early autumn (September) can also be excellent choices. The sea might be a bit cooler for swimming, but the days are still long enough for exploring the waterfront and surrounding countryside.
Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?
You can cancel your hotel reservation on Expedia, though it depends on the cancellation policy of your booking. Most bookings are refundable if cancelled within 24-48 hours of the scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. If free cancellation is available, you can cancel directly through your Expedia account by logging in, going to "My Trips", and selecting your reservation. To find flexible deals, filter your search by "Fully refundable property" for hotels in Brightlingsea.
How can I save on a hotel booking in Brightlingsea with Expedia?
One Key™—Expedia's free travel rewards program—gives you instant access to discounts with Member Prices on Brightlingsea hotels. Plus, you'll earn OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings to use on future trips. Booking an Expedia hotel and flight package is another great way to save, where bundling can result in significant savings. *Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.
How much is the nightly rate for a hotel in Brightlingsea?
Prices for hotels in Brightlingsea often vary, but you can find a great deal from AU$79 on Expedia. All sorts of factors affect price, such as the time of year or the days of the week you choose for your stay. Find the best deals by being flexible with your dates, and sort search results by "Price: low to high" for our cheapest rates.

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