Luxury self-catering accommodation in Essex

Idyllic, medieval villages and rolling countryside so picturesque it inspired some of John Constable's most famous paintings make up Essex's peaceful landscape. Visitors to this county bordering northern London can walk through the scenes depicted in such works of art at National Trust property, Flatford Mill, just outside of Dedham. Here, the River Stour gently ambles under enormous weeping willows, offering a gentle walk, or cycle, for families (with pubs aplenty for pit stops along the way!)

Along the coast, cockle-sellers, pink candly floss and slot machines jangle with a nostalgic seaside atmosphere, while marshes and nature reserves attract a wealth of wildlife. For a picture-perfect day trip, it has to Mersea Island, where pastel beach huts (which can be hired for the should you wish) line the sand, while a 10 acre vineyard selling five types of white wine, along with resident oyster beds ensure there's no lacking in authentic, local flavour.