"Fantastic stay and unique experience aboard the yacht. Room was spacious, bed was enormous and very comfortable.
Breakfast had a good choice of food and good quality products."
"Fantastic stay and unique experience aboard the yacht. Room was spacious, bed was enormous and very comfortable.
Breakfast had a good choice of food and good quality products."
"Lovely small hotel with attentive staff in a country setting. Nice spacious rooms and good breakfast. Only downside was noisy plumbing due to septic tank."
"Lovely small hotel with attentive staff in a country setting. Nice spacious rooms and good breakfast. Only downside was noisy plumbing due to septic tank."
"Very nice and clean spacious bedroom bathroom is amazing food 10/10 quite off grid amazing staff very attentive room service spot-on very nice place to enjoy weekend get away or family holiday would recommend every time"
"Very nice and clean spacious bedroom bathroom is amazing food 10/10 quite off grid amazing staff very attentive room service spot-on very nice place to enjoy weekend get away or family holiday would recommend every time"
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
"Very handy location close to where we needed to be in Chelmsford. Certainly more room that a budget hotel wih everything you need, including safe parking."
"Very clean, comfortable bed and sofa, nice to have a desk. Kitchen mostly equipped, just needed to get a couple cleaning supplies and a tea pot! Would stay again."
"The host made the check in easy and was responsive to all our questions and issues. The apartment, facilities and utensils were spotless and in great condition. For a stay in Chelmsford, the location is an easy walk or drive to any and all destinations."
Learn about the local history of Writtle with a stop at Hylands House and Park. Check out the top-notch restaurants or lively bars in this relaxing area.
You can learn about the history of Great and Little Leighs with a stop at Leez Priory. Check out the lively bars or charming coffeehouses in this relaxing area.
Chelmsford Cathedral is just one of the places to see in Chelmsford, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Check out the top-notch restaurants or lively bars in this relaxing area.
You can take time to visit Chelmsford City Racecourse during your travels to Great and Little Leighs. Check out the top-notch restaurants or charming coffeehouses in this walkable area.
Explore the historic Chelmsford Cathedral and its beautiful stained glass windows before shopping at the bustling High Chelmer centre. Catch performances at the Civic Theatre or visit Hylands Estate with its elegant mansion and sprawling parkland.
We had a stellar stay at Downham Hall. It was really quite lovely, and exactly the British experience that we were looking for.
Fantastic staff, and a very picturesque location. I would recommend it to anyone looking for a quiet countryside stay. Thank you.
Aaron & Stacey
We had a stellar stay at Downham Hall. It was really quite lovely, and exactly the British experience that we were looking for.
Fantastic staff, and a very picturesque location. I would recommend it to anyone looking for a quiet countryside stay. Thank you.
Aaron & Stacey
Aaron
Reviewed February 20, 2025Reviewed February 20, 2025
Charming period house renovated into a modern hotel with beautiful gardens and surrounding property. Amazing cooked breakfast buffet. Enjoyed opening room window to hear birds each morning (hotel surrounded by nature). Staff were very helpful in arranging taxis, directions, late night snacks, and loaning me a phone charger. I definitely recommend this hotel.
Charming period house renovated into a modern hotel with beautiful gardens and surrounding property. Amazing cooked breakfast buffet. Enjoyed opening room window to hear birds each morning (hotel surrounded by nature). Staff were very helpful in arranging taxis, directions, late night snacks, and loaning me a phone charger. I definitely recommend this hotel.
The room was very clean with a mix of modern and traditional facilities. Nicely renovated bathroom. The staff in the pub were very friendly and the food was excellent. A great choice of local beers and the food was delicious. Love the large beer garden.
The room was very clean with a mix of modern and traditional facilities. Nicely renovated bathroom. The staff in the pub were very friendly and the food was excellent. A great choice of local beers and the food was delicious. Love the large beer garden.
A hidden gem. Our room had been recently refurbished and had a comfy bed, decent tv, and a squeaky clean bathroom. The room is spacious and has new carpeting. Staff were helpful and friendly. Breakfast was freshly made to order and excellent. Great value. Would definitely stay again if ever in the area. It’s obvious that the owners take pride in their business. Oh yes, and there’s a pub attached for a nice cold one after a long days travel.
A hidden gem. Our room had been recently refurbished and had a comfy bed, decent tv, and a squeaky clean bathroom. The room is spacious and has new carpeting. Staff were helpful and friendly. Breakfast was freshly made to order and excellent. Great value. Would definitely stay again if ever in the area. It’s obvious that the owners take pride in their business. Oh yes, and there’s a pub attached for a nice cold one after a long days travel.
Excellent place to stay. Beautiful, peaceful and relaxing. Enjoy the best views from upstairs balconies. Breakfasts are amazing. Private patio in the back
Excellent place to stay. Beautiful, peaceful and relaxing. Enjoy the best views from upstairs balconies. Breakfasts are amazing. Private patio in the back
A few short steps from everything you want to see and do. Great for a few days while visiting our daughter. A warm welcome and sincere service the entire time. A great find!
A few short steps from everything you want to see and do. Great for a few days while visiting our daughter. A warm welcome and sincere service the entire time. A great find!
Historic Sites: Explore the stunning Chelmsford Cathedral and the informative Chelmsford Museum, showcasing the city's rich history.
Scenic Riverside Walks: Enjoy leisurely strolls along the picturesque riverside, perfect for relaxation and family outings.
Vibrant Shopping: Discover a variety of shopping centres and malls, offering diverse retail experiences.
Family-Friendly Parks: Unwind in the city's parks and reserves, ideal for family activities and outdoor fun.
Cultural Scene: Experience Chelmsford's lively atmosphere with local pubs and entertainment options.
Find great hotels near Chelmsford
Discover the charming accommodations in Chelmsford, England, where you'll find a variety of options to suit every traveler's needs. From comfortable hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts, this welcoming city offers pet-friendly and LGBTQIA-friendly environments. Whether you're seeking a business-focused stay or a relaxing getaway, Chelmsford's top hotels provide a perfect base for exploring nearby attractions in Cheltenham and Cambridge.
Hampton by Hilton London Stansted Airport: Situated 22.5km from Chelmsford, Hampton by Hilton London Stansted Airport is a welcoming 3-star hotel that embraces a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere, particularly for LGBTQIA travellers. This property is perfect for business-oriented guests, featuring multiple meeting rooms and an accessible business centre. Enjoy a restful stay with comfortable rooms, complimentary breakfast, and convenient access to transport links. Whether you’re here for work or leisure, this hotel offers a warm and friendly environment to unwind after a busy day.
Radisson Blu Hotel London Stansted Airport: Just 22.5km from Chelmsford, the Radisson Blu Hotel London Stansted Airport is a distinguished 4-star hotel that combines modern elegance with eco-conscious practices. As an eco-certified property, it caters to environmentally aware travellers while providing exceptional facilities for business needs, including a conference centre and spacious meeting rooms. Guests can appreciate stylish rooms, an on-site restaurant, and easy access to the airport, making it an ideal choice for both business and leisure trips.
The Harlow Hotel By AccorHotels: Located 24.1km from Chelmsford, The Harlow Hotel By AccorHotels is a charming 3-star accommodation that welcomes both business and eco-friendly travellers, along with their pets. This eco-certified hotel provides a variety of business amenities, including a business centre and conference space, ensuring a productive stay. With pet-friendly policies allowing dogs and cats, guests can enjoy a comfortable environment while making the most of their visit. Relax in well-appointed rooms and take advantage of the thoughtful amenities offered throughout the property.
Where to stay in and around Chelmsford
Discover the vibrant charm of Chelmsford, a city that caters to families, business travellers, and those seeking a lively city experience. Stroll through downtown Chelmsford, where friendly locals and a bustling atmosphere await. Enjoy a night out at local pubs or unwind in family-friendly parks. With its convenient location, Chelmsford is the perfect base to explore nearby regions, offering a unique blend of relaxation and city vibes for every traveller.
Bishop's Stortford: Situated 24.1km from Chelmsford, Bishop's Stortford is a vibrant city that combines family-friendly attractions with urban charm. Visitors are drawn to its diverse outdoor experiences and city-themed activities. Explore the bustling shopping area, catch a show at the local theatre, or unwind at the shopping mall centre. The city's historic streets and landmarks offer a glimpse into its rich past, while the nearby stadium provides entertainment for sports enthusiasts. Expect a lively atmosphere, especially during peak months in April, July, and September.
Ingatestone: Just 9.7km away from Chelmsford lies Ingatestone, a quaint city that is perfect for outdoor lovers and sports enthusiasts. Renowned for its golf courses and country private clubs, it's an ideal spot for those looking to engage in recreational activities. The city's appeal lies in its charming urban parks and historic sites, which offer a relaxing backdrop for family outings. With visitor numbers peaking from June to July and September, Ingatestone promises a welcoming experience filled with community events and sporting activities.
Great Baddow: Nestled within Chelmsford, Great Baddow is a picturesque village that offers a unique cultural experience. Ideal for families, it features a variety of outdoor activities and entertainment options, including a theatre and arena facility. The shopping area is perfect for a leisurely stroll, while the local beach and historic sites provide opportunities for exploration. Peak visitation typically occurs in March to April and July, making it a lively destination for those seeking both relaxation and cultural immersion.
Things to do in and around Chelmsford
Chelmsford is a charming destination perfect for family vacations, business trips, and city explorations. Visitors can enjoy various activities, including vibrant shopping centres and malls, as well as scenic riverside walks. The city offers a range of attractions that cater to diverse interests, making it an ideal spot for leisure and relaxation. Whether you're looking to shop or unwind by the river, Chelmsford has something for everyone.
Shopping
The Forest Drive Shops offer a vibrant mix of local businesses, perfect for picking up unique gifts. Clock Tower Retail Park combines shopping with entertainment for a fun outing. If you're up for a drive, visit Ingatestone Saddlery Centre, located 6.4km away, for specialty items.
Recreation
Marsh Farm Country Park offers a tranquil escape with beautiful landscapes and opportunities for relaxation. Nearby, the Warren Golf Club exudes luxury, perfect for a round of golf amidst stunning scenery. For sports enthusiasts, Melbourne Stadium provides a vibrant atmosphere with various sporting events to enjoy.
Adventure
Experience the thrill of Delta Force Paintball Billericay, located 11.3km from Chelmsford, where adrenaline meets strategy in an action-packed environment. For water fun, visit Festival Wakeboard Park, 16.1km away, offering exciting wakeboarding and family entertainment. Challenge yourself at High Sports, 17.7km away, with exhilarating climbing adventures.
Nightlife
In Chelmsford, you can enjoy a vibrant nightlife scene. Hollywood Bowl Basildon offers thrilling arcade adventures, while Cineworld Braintree sets the mood for entertainment and romance. For a touch of culture, the Palace Theatre presents family-friendly performances in a charming setting.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.
Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Chelmsford
When planning your trip to Chelmsford, consider visiting between December and February for the best savings, as prices drop compared to the busier months. Sundays are typically the least expensive days to stay, while Saturdays are the priciest. Use Expedia to search for the best rates by filtering for eco-certified hotels and bundling flights with your accommodation for additional savings. Explore free activities in the area to make the most of your visit without breaking the bank.
The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Chelmsford are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to July, 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 Chelmsford is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay in Chelmsford is Saturday.
Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to customize your travel experience by selecting your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can easily arrange your search results to display the lowest prices first, ensuring you find the most affordable accommodations right away. Furthermore, you can refine your options by hotel type; for instance, if you check the Eco-certified filter, you'll discover a selection of sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels ready for booking.
Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Chelmsford hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in and around Chelmsford
Chelmsford offers a delightful blend of family-friendly, urban, and business-themed attractions. Visitors can explore the historic Chelmsford Cathedral and the informative Chelmsford Museum, while outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the city's parks and reserves. With a rich cultural scene and various activities catering to families, Chelmsford is an excellent choice for a memorable vacation in the UK.
St John the Baptist Monastery: Located 9.7km from Chelmsford, this serene monastery offers a unique glimpse into monastic life. Surrounded by tranquil grounds, visitors can experience the peaceful atmosphere and rich cultural heritage that defines this historic site.
Hylands House and Park: Nestled within Chelmsford, this stunning historic house combines beautiful architecture with sprawling gardens. Explore the beautifully restored interior and enjoy leisurely walks through the park, immersing yourself in its cultural vibes.
Leez Priory: A captivating historic place in Chelmsford, Leez Priory offers a glimpse into England's past. With its picturesque setting and impressive architecture, it's an ideal spot for history enthusiasts and those seeking a charming escape.
Best time to go to Chelmsford
The best time to visit Chelmsford can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Chelmsford falls in August, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Chelmsford falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
Calendar Month
Temperature
Precipitation
Cloudiness
Occupancy
Pricing
January
39.7°F (4.3°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Average
Slightly Low
February
40.8°F (4.9°C)
No Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Average
Slightly Low
March
43.9°F (6.6°C)
No Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Average
Average
April
47.8°F (8.8°C)
No Rain
Mostly Sunny
Slightly High
Average
May
53.4°F (11.9°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Average
Slightly High
June
59.2°F (15.1°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Slightly High
July
63.5°F (17.5°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Slightly High
Slightly High
August
63.7°F (17.6°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Average
September
59.5°F (15.3°C)
No Rain
Mostly Sunny
Slightly High
Average
October
53.8°F (12.1°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Slightly Low
Average
November
46.6°F (8.1°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Slightly Low
Average
December
42.1°F (5.6°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Slightly Low
Slightly Low
The nearest major airports for your trip to Chelmsford
When visiting Chelmsford, England, you have several airport options. London Heathrow (LHR) is 70.8km away and offers nearby accommodations like the 5-star Sofitel London Heathrow, located 3.2km from the airport. London Gatwick (LGW) is 77.2km away, with excellent options such as the Windfalls Boutique Hotel, a 5-star guesthouse 4.8km from the airport. However, London Stansted (STN) is the closest at 22.5km from Chelmsford, featuring hotels like the Radisson Blu Hotel, just 0.3.2km away. Each airport is easily accessible from these hotels, ensuring a smooth transition to your Chelmsford destination.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best area to stay in Chelmsford?
The best area to stay in Chelmsford is the city centre, particularly around High Street and the surrounding streets.
This area is the main commercial and social hub of Chelmsford, offering excellent convenience for visitors. You'll find a wide array of shops, restaurants, and cafes along High Street and the adjacent Bond Street. The Chelmsford Cathedral is a prominent landmark, and the area is very walkable, making it easy to explore on foot.
For couples looking for a relaxed and convenient base, the city centre is ideal. You'll be within easy reach of cultural attractions like the Chelmsford Museum in Oaklands Park, as well as plenty of options for an evening meal or a drink. The proximity to the train station also makes day trips straightforward.
Business travellers will also find the city centre highly convenient. Many hotels in this area cater to corporate guests, often providing good meeting facilities and easy access to local businesses.
What are the best hotels in Chelmsford that travellers recommend?
Two of the best hotels in Chelmsford that receive consistently high recommendations from travellers are Channels Hotel and The Compasses Inn.
The 4-star Channels Hotel, with an excellent 9.6 rating, is highly praised for its gorgeous rooms and great staff. Guests also enjoy the complimentary full breakfast and the convenience of an on-site golf course. It is also located near the Palace of Beaulieu.
Another excellent choice is The Compasses Inn, which holds a 3.5-star rating and an impressive 9.6 review score. Guests frequently praise the great food, lovely big rooms, and friendly service. It is also conveniently located near Leez Priory.
Both of these establishments are known for providing a very pleasant stay in Chelmsford.
The 4-star County Hotel Chelmsford, with an 8.0 rating, offers sofa beds, kids' meals, and free WiFi, making it convenient for families. It also provides accessible parking and electric car charging. Guests have highlighted the brilliant and helpful staff, clean and lovely rooms, and its super location, which is within a kilometre of West Park and Tower Gardens.
Pontlands Park, rated 9.4, is a 3.5-star hotel featuring connecting rooms, kids' meals, and both indoor and outdoor pools, complete with sun loungers. This hotel provides free toiletries, free self-parking, and free WiFi. Guests frequently praise the excellent and friendly staff, excellent food, spacious and quiet rooms, and lovely facilities.
The 4-star Channels Hotel, with an impressive 9.6 rating, provides complimentary cribs and connecting rooms, along with free full breakfast and free WiFi. Self-parking is also free. Guests consistently mention the gorgeous and lovely rooms, extremely helpful staff, and excellent food.
The Compasses Inn, a 3.5-star establishment rated 9.6, offers free cribs and rollaway extra beds, making it very accommodating for families. It also includes free self-parking and free wired internet in public areas. Reviewers often praise the great food, lovely and big rooms, and friendly service.
Finally, The Ferry Boat Inn, a 3.5-star hotel with an outstanding 9.8 rating, provides child-friendly window design, kids' meals, and free cooked breakfast. It also allows pets to stay for free and offers free self-parking and free WiFi. This hotel is located about 3.5 kilometres from Marsh Farm Country Park, and guests often praise its clean and big rooms, and fantastic food. Find more child-friendly accommodations in Chelmsford
What are the best spa hotels in Chelmsford?
For an excellent spa hotel in Chelmsford, Pontlands Park is a superb choice.
This 3.5-star hotel, with an outstanding 9.4 rating, offers a wonderful spa experience with both indoor and outdoor pools, as well as a relaxing steam room. Guests consistently praise the excellent and friendly staff, the wonderful food, and the spacious, quiet rooms. Additional conveniences include free WiFi and complimentary self-parking, making for a truly relaxing stay. See all spa hotels in Chelmsford
The 4-star Channels Hotel, rated 9.6, provides a complimentary full breakfast and free WiFi. Guests frequently describe the rooms as gorgeous and lovely, and the staff as extremely helpful. The hotel also offers free toiletries and free self-parking.
Another excellent choice is the 3.5-star The Ferry Boat Inn, with a remarkable 9.8 rating. This hotel offers a free cooked breakfast, free WiFi, and free self-parking. Pets are also welcome to stay for free. Guests often comment on the clean and big rooms, and the fantastic food. It is conveniently located 3.5 km from Marsh Farm Country Park.
The 3-star The Oakland, with an 8.2 rating, also provides a complimentary breakfast. Guests often praise the excellent and fantastic breakfast, comfortable and clean rooms, and the friendly staff. The hotel also offers free cribs and is situated 1.1 km from Marsh Farm Country Park.
What are the top pet-friendly hotels in Chelmsford?
The 3.5-star Ferry Boat Inn, with a remarkable 9.8 rating, warmly welcomes dogs, and pets stay free of charge. Guests frequently praise the clean and spacious rooms, along with the fantastic food, especially the complimentary cooked breakfast. It is located approximately 3.5 km from Marsh Farm Country Park.
Another excellent choice is the 4-star Channels Hotel, boasting a 9.6 rating. This hotel provides food and water bowls for pets, and a complimentary full breakfast is included. Visitors often mention the gorgeous and lovely rooms, the extremely helpful staff, and the excellent food.
The 3.5-star Compasses Inn, also with a high 9.6 rating, is another pet-friendly option that provides food and water bowls. Guests appreciate the great food, the lovely and spacious accommodation, and the friendly service. The hotel also offers complimentary self-parking and free wired internet in public areas. See more pet-friendly hotels in Chelmsford
What are the best budget hotels in Chelmsford?
When looking for budget-friendly hotels in Chelmsford, The Oakland, The Ship, and Premier Inn Chelmsford City Centre are all highly-rated options.
The 3-star Oakland, with a rating of 8.2, offers comfortable and clean rooms, and guests frequently praise the excellent and friendly staff. Its complimentary breakfast is often described as excellent, and the hotel is conveniently located just 1.1 km from Marsh Farm Country Park.
Another good choice is The Ship, a 3-star hotel with a rating of 8.0. Guests appreciate its clean and lovely rooms, the good food, and the handy location. It is particularly close to Chelmsford Cathedral, just 0.5 km away, and also within easy reach of West Park and Admirals Park LNR.
The Premier Inn Chelmsford City Centre, a 3-star hotel with an 8.4 rating, is also a popular option. It is well-located, being only 0.3 km from Chelmsford Cathedral, and within walking distance of West Park and Admirals Park LNR. View all budget hotels in Chelmsford
What are the most romantic hotels in Chelmsford for couples?
For a romantic stay in Chelmsford, Pontlands Park comes highly recommended for couples.
This 3.5-star hotel, with an impressive 9.4 rating, offers a delightful experience. Guests frequently praise the excellent and friendly staff, as well as the wonderful food. The rooms are described as spacious and quiet, providing a relaxing retreat. The hotel also boasts excellent facilities, including both indoor and outdoor pools, alongside comfortable sun loungers. Free toiletries and complimentary Wi-Fi are also provided, and guests can enjoy the convenience of free self-parking.
What are the best hotels in Chelmsford near Admirals Park?
For hotels in Chelmsford near Admirals Park, the Premier Inn Chelmsford City Centre is a highly rated option.
The 3-star Premier Inn Chelmsford City Centre, with an 8.4 rating, is conveniently located just 1.1 km from Admirals Park. Guests appreciate its central location for exploring the city and its proximity to green spaces.
When is the best time to go to Chelmsford?
The best time to go to Chelmsford is during the late spring and summer months, from May to September.
This period typically offers the most pleasant weather for exploring the city and its surrounding countryside. You'll find warmer temperatures and more sunshine, which is ideal for enjoying outdoor activities and events. The days are also longer, giving you more time to sightsee.
Couples looking for a relaxing getaway will appreciate the opportunity to stroll through Central Park or visit the RHS Garden Hyde Hall without the chill of winter. The warmer months also bring a greater chance of outdoor markets and local festivals, adding to the experience.
For travellers planning to visit historic sites like Chelmsford Cathedral or Hylands Estate, the summer months provide comfortable conditions for walking around the grounds and taking in the architecture.
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 canceled 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 Chelmsford.
How much is the nightly rate at a Chelmsford hotel?
Prices for hotels in Chelmsford often vary, but you can find a great deal from CA $80 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 the cheapest rate.