Quirky And Unusual Places to Stay in Essex with Hot Tub

Essex is fun, Essex is diverse. More than anything, Essex is unique.

I have written a lot about this beautiful county at the East of England in the past. I just love its scenic beauty and natural landscape that makes the Essex countryside truly breathtaking.

For today though, I want to focus on the unique stay options throughout Essex.

You can stay at some really quirky and distinct places that are one of a kind.

These places are perfect for romantic breaks and weekend getaways. What’s even better, most of the places I am listing here come with your own hut tub.

That just makes your stay so much better and allows you to relax while enjoying the mesmerising natural surroundings.

A quick note before I go further. Not so long ago I did a post on the best glamping sites near Essex.

I suggest you read that as well since most of those places are unique in their own way. A few of them have been featured in this post too.

The Most Unusual Places to Stay in Essex with Hot Tub

Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway or just want to celebrate a special occasion, these are the best places for you.

These unusual places range from whimsical fairy tale cottages to lake cabins, luxury treehouses, historical houses and distinct boutique hotels.

Note that a few places to stay given here have a beautiful bathtub rather than hot tubs.

I have still listed those since they do provide a highly unusual stay experience and are a brilliant romantic escape.

Browning Bros Secret Escapes

Browning Bros at Tey Brook Farm, near Colchester is pretty much the perfect place for a romantic escape.

They offer brilliant glamping options and something they call secret escapes.

Now before I get to the secret escapes, I want to talk a bit about glamping at Browning Bros.

The entire 20-acre land is like an enchanted forest. You have organic farms, ancient woodland, lakes and so much more.

Within these nature-rich spots, they have a number of glamping stay options. These include various types of yurts, the shepherd’s hut, bell tents and the grain silo.

All of these accommodations, especially the grain silo is quite unique and romantic.

Nevertheless, if you really want to up the romantic or luxury quotient, the Browning Bros Secret Escapes is for you.

Secret escapes are nothing but two outstanding private lake side cabins that come with your own private hot tub.

The cabins are named Water Lily Lodge and Kingfishers Nest.

Water Lily Lodge

Water Lily Lodge is a fantastic lake cabin with an outdoor hot tub on your own private deck.

This is amongst one of the finest luxury lodges in Essex that come with a host of amenities.

You access the lodge through a country track within thick woodlands and gorgeous natural views.

Your accommodation comes with fully equipped kitchen, dining area, three bedrooms, private bathroom, living area, flat-screen TV and log burner.

You get free WiFi, free parking and best of all, a private deck with hot tub right on the lake.

Imagine unwinding in your own private hot tub on a nice Essex evening with beautiful lake views.

Kingfishers Nest

Kingfishers Nest is a cosy log cabin that is simply perfect for couples looking for a romantic weekend.

It comes with one master bedroom with a private bathroom, fully equipped kitchen, dining and living area plus lots more.

The best part about Kingfishers Nest is that you get an indoor bathtub, outdoor hot tub and sauna.

From each of these tubs, you get gorgeous views of the forest and waterfront.

You also have similar amenities as Water Lily Lodge including free Wi-Fi, off road parking, comfortable bed linen etc.

The kitchen area is equipped with cutlery, pots and pans plus electric oven, hob and dishwasher.

Both Kingfishers Nest and Water Lily Lodge are secluded with the hidden lake side setting all to yourself.

Another thing, there are a number of famous sites to explore that are near Browning Bros Secret Escapes.

Do explore the popular Clacton-on-sea coastline, Colchester Zoo or Colne Valley Steam Railway Museum.

I personally suggest the several nature trails available that are just a short walk away from your cabin.

Hideaway Heath Hallow

Hideaway Heath Hallow ticks off pretty much all boxes for a romantic getaway in Essex.

Unusual or quirky accommodation – check.

Secluded cosy cabin yet a short drive away from restaurants, towns and other attractions – check.

Fairy tale interiors but with modern amenities – check.

Indoor copper bathtub plus fantastic outdoor hut tub – double check.

I just love the details that have gone into the making of Hideaway Heath Hallow.

From the rustic wooden four-poster bed to the colour schemes, sofas, décor, private patio etc., absolutely everything is just perfect.

You will have a tough time deciding whether to spend your time indoors or outdoors.

The private patio and enclosed garden space oozes romance. You have the hot tub here with superb natural surroundings. You also get a day bed, fire pit, fairy lights and so much more.

The double ensuite feels both quirky and tastefully decorated while the kitchen comes with everything that you may require.

Although most couples would spend their time within the cabin itself, you can venture outside for added fun.

You can go for walks in ancient woodlands within the Needle Eye Woods nature reserve or visit attractions such as Abberton Reservoir and Colchester Zoo.

I just can’t find any faults with Hideaway Heath Hallow and it feels like the perfect getaway for couples.

Hideaway Heath Hallow is located at Layer-de-la-Haye, Colchester.

Back in Thyme by Blackbrook Lodges

As far as shepherds huts are concerned, Back in Thyme by Blackbrook Lodges is one of the best in Essex.

It is a nice, cosy accommodation with a fantastic hot tub in your own private enclosed garden.

Back in Thyme is meant for couples looking for a romantic short break within natural settings and no human disturbances.

The hut itself comes with a comfortable bed, private shower and well-equipped kitchen.

The private outdoor area with the hot tub is the real highlight of the place. There is a fire pit and barbeque area as well for you to enjoy.

Back in Thyme by Blackbrook Lodges is located in Great Horkesley, Essex.

The Tower, Latchingdon

I am sure you have always wanted to stay in a water tower for your holiday. What’s that, you didn’t?

That’s because you have not been to The Tower located in the village of Latchingdon.

As the name suggests, it is a water tower that has been converted into a three-storeyed luxurious accommodation.

Honestly, what a conversion it is!

Once you get past the unusual nature of the building, you realize it is elegant, modern and opulent.

The three-storeyed tower comes with three double bedrooms, three bathrooms, study, fully-equipped kitchen plus a wonderful living and dining area.

You also get superfast WiFi, large flat-screen TV, dishwasher, washing machine, dryer, wine chiller etc.

The real highlight for me though is the terrace. This is the place to stay for the best panoramic views of Essex countryside.

The views from some of the rooms and especially the terrace is simply spectacular.

The circular study on the ground floor is also of special interest, mainly referred to as the ‘Engineer’s Room’.

There is just one thing to note about the property. While you do get a brilliant bathtub with your master bedroom, there is no separate hot tub.

To be honest, if you can overlook the lack of hot tub, do try The Tower at Latchingdon.

It provides a unique experience, luxurious accommodation and fantastic panoramic views of the countryside.

Plus, there is plenty to do around the place. This includes exploring historical attractions, taking boat trips to nearby islands, visiting romantic port towns etc.

The Raft at Chigborough

The Raft at Chigborough Farms is no ordinary log cabin.

This is a two-storey cabin floating in its own private lake and even comes with a rowing boat.

It has the most romantic private woodfired hut tub by the lake with captivating views all around.

Before we speak more about The Raft, let me just briefly introduce you to Chigborough Farms.

This 130-acre woodland is one of the best rural retreats you can find anywhere near North Essex.

It is one of the premier sites for glamping located near the town of Maldon.

Chigborough Farms has several quirky accommodations to choose from that includes Birdsong safari tents, hobbit cottages, floating cabins etc.

There is a famous fishery at the property and lots of activities for resident guests.

You can indulge in pottery, yoga, water sports, fishing, biking, hiking, boating plus lots more.

Now coming specifically to The Raft, this floating cabin is a mesmerising place to stay. It is also the one that comes with your own hot tub by the lake.

It is mainly meant for a couple although it can accommodate up to two children if needed.

You get a double bed on the mezzanine while the ground floor comes with the kitchen, dining and living area.

It is an eco-friendly cabin powered by solar energy. You get outdoor but private showers with nice views of the lake.

The biggest draw of The Raft is the privacy and tranquillity it offers its guests. The natural surroundings are simply brilliant with the lake, forest land and amazing wildlife.

In terms of a unique experience, The Raft is right up there with the best in Essex. Very few places can boast of providing guests with their own floating oasis with a hot tub and rowing boat.

Layer Marney Tower

Layer Marney Tower is a 500 plus years old Tudor Palace just off Colchester – Maldon Road.

It is the tallest Tudor Gatehouse in the country with beautifully manicured gardens and lush greenery all around.

While it is unusual to stay at a Tudor Palace, they do offer two private apartments within the main tower.

However, this is not where you should be staying for a unique experience. Just a minute walk or so from the tower are six superb glamping tents within forest land.

Some of these glamping tents come with your own outdoor hot tub.

Each of the tents are thoughtfully furnished plus have a private shower and outdoor fire pit.

It is quite exciting to stay in the Layer Marney Tower glamping tents. Guests are able to feed animals and access the tower when open.

Just walking around the historic Tudor building and learning about its past is quite exciting.

The surrounding greenery also makes your stay peaceful and relaxing.

Layer Marney Tower Glamping is also the ideal base to explore Colchester and other famous attractions in the area.

Cambridge Lodge at Audley End House and Gardens

Audley End House is one of the most majestic Jacobean mansions in the United Kingdom.

The historical mansion and its spectacular gardens are now a museum and a proud element of England’s rich heritage.

Visitors can purchase tickets to explore parts of the Victorian country house and also participate in various activities.

Conversely, you can also stay within the beautiful grounds of Audley End House at the delightful Cambridge Lodge.

Honestly, the thrill of staying in Cambridge House is simply unmatched by a general day visit to the mansion.

You get access to all of the areas, activities and gardens plus you are not bound by a time limit.

Cambridge Lodge, although a separate property from the main Audley End House, is a delight in itself.

It is a two-level Victorian gateway cottage with the most elegant interiors and everything you need for a comfortable stay.

You get two double rooms for a family or group of 4. There is a lounge on the ground level plus fully equipped kitchen.

The family bathroom has a nice big bathtub and private shower. You do not get a hot tub but the cottage and its location more than makes up for it.

As a place to stay for the weekend, you cannot get a better holiday cottage than Cambridge House.

While staying at Cambridge House, do check out the working kitchens and historic stables. There is also a Victorian nursery and fantastic playground for children.

Mind you, just walking around the large garden and discovering aspects of the Audley End House is incredibly satisfying.

The Suites at Pannells Ash

The Suites at Pannells Ash is located in Castle Hedingham, Halstead.

It is a cross between a boutique hotel and a luxury bed and breakfast.

The property is actually a barn conversion project by the owners but the final outcome is no less than a luxury hotel.

There are three suites for you to choose from. Each of the suites come with a double bedroom, smart flat-screen TV, WiFi and walk-in showers.

Not only is The Suites at Pannells Ash set amidst the best of Essex countryside, its eco-credentials are equally impressive.

Coming to the all-important topic of a hot tub, you do get one perfectly located in the garden area.

It does have a secluded location with mesmerising views of the countryside.

There is lots to explore near the area within a short driving distance. If you wish for a quite weekend, just walk around the nature rich settings and stay indoors.

Overall, The Suites at Pannells Ash offers a nice romantic and peaceful time with a relaxing atmosphere.

Toad Hall Cottage

Toad Hall Cottage is one of the best self-catering cottages you can find in the North Essex countryside.

Located at Earls Colne and surrounded by gorgeous green fields, Toad Hall Cottage is romantic and perfect for a couple.

The cottage comes with a double bed, open living area and a kitchenette. There is a cosy fireplace but the definite highlight is your own private hot tub on the deck outside.

You can easily spend a lot of time on the hot tub, soaking in the mesmerising countryside views in front of you.

Most guests rave about the sunset views over the fields, privacy and the peacefulness of Toad Hall Cottage.

You do get a private bathroom within the cottage and free parking at the property.

It is easy to get to Toad Hall Cottage from London and equally easy to explore the surrounding areas.

Overall, Toad Hall Cottage is romantic, secluded, private and great for a quick weekend getaway.

Mill Lodge Retreat

Located in Ingatestone, one of the most wonderful rural villages of Essex, Mill Lodge Retreat is simply stunning.

There are nine awesome glamping pods situated around the 3.8-acre lake front at Mill Lodge Retreat.

Now, before I get to the glamping pods and the hot tubs, I need to talk about the lake.

Mill Lodge Retreat offers one of the best carp fishing experiences in all of Essex.

As per their website, there are 323 fishes in the lake at the moment going up to 40lb.

Fishing while surrounded by lush greenery and wonderfully calm waters of the lake is a surreal experience.

As for the glamping pods, they have private enclosure all around and open up to the lake on one side.

Each glamping pod comes with your own private hot tub. You also get one double bed for a couple and bunk beds for children.

They do provide a PlayStation, Smart TV and WiFi but honestly, you will not need them.

The greenery of the meadows and tranquillity of the lake is all you will need at Mill Lodge Retreat.

The private deck with hot tub, relaxing chairs and firepit is where guests spend most of their time.

When at Mill Lodge Retreat, do walk around the local villages. Ingatestone and its surroundings are one of the most beautiful places in the Essex countryside.

The Coop

The Coop is a cosy log cabin located within Colemans Farm at Ongar.

Colemans Farm is a 200-acre working farm that is quite popular for their unique, quirky and unusual glamping accommodations.

For those looking for a nice cosy cabin with a private hot tub, The Coop is your best option.

Inside, it comes with a double bed next to a large window for woodland views. There is a private shower and a tiny kitchenette.

Just outside in your own private deck, you get the hot tub as well as fire pit with BBQ facilities.

What guests love about The Coop is the ability to just unwind and relax amidst the best of Essex countryside.

The fields, meadows, farmland and ancient woodland are all for you to explore and enjoy.

Eaton House Studio

As far as unique places to stay in Essex are concerned, Eaton House Studio is right up there with the quirkiest.

With pink exteriors and a combination of lavender, peach and neon interiors, Eaton House Studio looks straight out of a fairy tale.

The interior décor as well as the garden area provides a strong artistic vibe. There is generous use of colours, flowers, lighting and furnishings to provide a creative atmosphere.

Eaton House Studio is not meant for a couple looking for a quiet and secluded getaway.

With seven bedrooms and a large living room, this place is best enjoyed if you are in a large group.

In fact, Eaton House Studio is more popular for photo or video shoots and even content creation.

You can book the entire house for any type of special occasion. With the kind of décor all around, your day will most definitely be special.

Coming to the question of a hot tub, you get a large one outside in the private garden area.

The hot tub is large enough for several guests. Considering Eaton House Studio is meant for large groups, the size of the hot tub is no surprise.

Eaton House Studio is located in Tiptree, near Colchester. It comes with all modern amenities, large bedrooms, well-equipped kitchen, private bathrooms, living room, laundry room plus lots more.

Malting Farm

Malting Farm is located in Little Bentley near Colchester.

It is a family run farm that is quite popular for glamping in Essex.

It has some of the best lodges, cabins, treehouses and bell-tents you can find in the Essex countryside.

The three lodges or cabins in the property are the ones you want. They all come with their own private hot tub and are large enough for a family or group of four.

Each cabin has two double bedrooms and some come with bunk beds for children.

The log cabins are quite comfortable and best efforts have been made to provide a luxurious feel to them.

You do get private bathrooms inside and just outside the cabin on your private deck, you have the hot tub.

I feel Malting Farm is perfect for nature lovers with the greenery and wildlife around the place.

You can choose to stay within the farm during your getaway or easily explore the local countryside or Essex seaside.

There are nature trails, cycling trails, fishing facilities, paddleboarding and adventure walks nearby as well.

Therefore, your holiday at Malting Farm can be as peaceful or as thrilling as you want it to be.

Special Mentions

My list of unusual places to stay in Essex mainly focused on having a hot tub.

Nevertheless, I still wanted to make a special mention of few more unusual or unique places to stay.

These do not come with a hot tub but are definitely unique. They are perfect to escape from your normal life for couple of days and experience something new.

Piglets Boutique B&B

Piglets Boutique B&B is a barn converted to a piggery converted to a luxury boutique hotel.

It is less of a bed and breakfast and more of a luxury hotel. The only difference is there are only 5 rooms in the premises for complete privacy. This is also an adult-only hotel.

Another unique aspect of Piglets Boutique B&B is its swimming pool. It is in fact a pond that has been fantastically converted to a place to swim for guests.

The swimming pond as it’s called is genuinely one of its unique selling points.

Each room at Piglets Boutique B&B is tastefully decorated and has everything you may expect from a modern boutique hotel.

Piglets Boutique B&B is located in Wimbish, a charming village amidst the best of Essex countryside.

Railway Carriage Holidays at High Barn Heritage

Railway Carriage Holidays at High Barn Heritage is located at Halstead.

It is an old railway carriage that has been beautifully restored into a holiday home like no other.

You actually stay inside the carriage and have a double bed, dining table, cosy kitchen and private shower.

There are views of the gorgeous natural settings all around. You can step out of the carriage to sit and have a picnic on the fields outside.

Railway Carriage Holidays at High Barn Heritage is a quirky and unusual place to stay in Essex. It is totally worth it and ideal for couples looking for a romantic getaway.

The Old Oak at Coleman’s Farm

We have already spoken about The Coop at Coleman’s Farm that comes with a hot tub.

However, if you do not mind sacrificing the hot tub, I would highly recommend The Old Oak.

It is a treehouse like no other. You have a two-storey log house that is around an ancient oak tree.

It honestly looks like a house from a fairy tale. The oak tree goes through the house and you have branches and leaves all around.

Even with a giant tree within it, the tree house looks elegant, luxurious and has all modern amenities.

You do get a nice bathtub and large windows to view the awe-inspiring forest greenery at the farm.

Final thoughts

England is blessed with several enthralling places where one can really unwind and lose themselves in the lap of nature.

From the picturesque Lake District to the South Downs and regions of East Anglia. You have gorgeous places to stay for a nice weekend.

However, the charm of the Essex countryside is still something that captivates you and leaves you awestruck.

Add to that the number of quirky and unique holiday homes and you have a truly distinctive getaway.

So, just pick from one of the unusual places to stay in Essex from the above list and set out for a memorable vacation.